Here is the press release from the Vernon Vipers website,
COMMITMENT ALERT – Vinny Ipri Commits To Vernon | Vernon Vipers
Vinny Ipri's Player Profile:
Vinny Ipri - Stats, Contract, Salary & More (eliteprospects.com)
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
Ipri Commits To Vernon Vipers:
Game Preview: Vernon @ Salmon Arm:
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Tonight's the seventh of nine regular season meetings between the Vernon Vipers & Salmon Arm Silverbacks. The Vipers are 3-3 vs Salmon Arm
Vernon's regular season record & stats vs the Silverbacks since 2002
Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon is 80-55-13-8-1 vs Salmon Arm
Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 43-27-7-2-1 at home vs. Salmon Arm
The Silverbacks are 2-6-1-0-1 in their last ten games in Vernon
The Vipers are 3-6-1-0 in their last ten games in Salmon Arm
The Vipers last regular season win at home vs. Salmon Arm was a 5-2 victory on Friday, December 29th 2023
The Silverbacks last regular season win in Vernon was a 5-2 victory on Tuesday, December 12th 2023
The Vipers last regular season win in Salmon Arm was a 4-0 victory on Saturday, November 18th 2023
The Silverbacks last regular season win at home vs. Vernon was a 4-0 victory on Saturday, November 11th 2023
Vernon Vipers/Salmon Arm Silverbacks 2023-24 regular season schedule:
September 22nd Vernon @ Salmon Arm: Silverbacks won 3-2
October 13th Salmon Arm @ Vernon: Vipers won 5-3
November 11th Vernon @ Salmon Arm: Silverbacks won 4-0
November 18th Vernon @ Salmon Arm: Vipers won 4-0
December 12th Salmon Arm @ Vernon: Silverbacks won 5-2
December 29th Salmon Arm @ Vernon: Vipers won 5-2
January 24th Vernon @ Salmon Arm
February 3rd Salmon Arm @ Vernon
February 17th Salmon Arm @ Vernon
Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers:
The 16-10-1-0 Vernon Vipers make their fourth and final regular season visit to the Shaw Centre, return from the BCHL All-Star break are coming off a 3-2 victory over the visiting Coquitlam Express January 13th. The last time the Snakes were in Salmon Arm, Vernon won 4-0 November 18th. Tonight's the first game of a three game road trip. The Vipers have won three of their last five games but lost six of their last ten games. Vernon sits 4th in the Interior Conference.
Vernon Vipers 2023-24 Roster:
Vernon Vipers 2023-24 Regular Season Scoring Leaders:
Owen Kim (11-25-36)
Vernon Vipers 2023-24 Regular Season Record/Stats:
Games Played: 33
Wins: 20
Losses: 12
Overtime Wins: 2
Overtime Losses: 1
Shootout Wins: 1
Shootout Losses: 0
Overtime Record: 2-1
Shootout Record: 1-0
Home Record: 12-5-1-0
Road Record: 8-7-0-0
When the Vipers score first: 15-2
When the opponents score first: 5-11
Leading after the 1st period: 10-0
Tied after the 1st period: 8-4
Trailing after the 1st period: 3-9
Leading after the 2nd period: 14-2
Tied after the 2nd period: 5-0
Trailing after the 2nd period: 1-11
Out shooting opponents: 10-2
Out shot by opponents: 8-9
One goal games: 5-3
Goals for: 120
Goals against: 90
Record vs Interior Division: 16-12
Record vs Coastal Division: 3-1
Longest winning streak: 7 games
Longest losing streak: 4 games
Standings: 4th Place Interior ConferenceVernon Vipers Returning Players:
Hank Cleaves 03
Julian Facchinelli 04
Luke Pakulak 03
Isaac Tremblay 04
Anthony Cliche 03
Connor Elliott 03
Ethan David 03
Vernon Vipers departed & traded players from last years team:
Jonathan Horn 02
Thomas Tien 04
Connor Welsh 04
Max Borovinskiy 04
Ethan Merner 06
Seiya Tanaka-Campbell 03
Ethan Sundar 03
Walker Erickson 02
Reagan Milburn 03
Lee Parks 04
Ayden Third 02
Griffen Barr 02
Dylan Compton 05
Luke Ashton 05
Anson McMaster 02
Roan Clarke 03
Vernon's 2023-24 regular season home record vs Salmon Arm:
2-1-0-0
Vernon's 2023-24 regular season road record vs Salmon Arm:
1-2-0-0
Vernon Vipers 2023-24 regular season scoring leaders vs Salmon Arm:
Owen Kim (1-5-6)
Erik Pastro (2-2-4)
Georgios Stavrianeas (2-2-4)
Lukas McCloskey (0-3-3)
Julian Facchinelli (2-1-3)
Luke Bibby (1-2-3)
Hank Cleaves (1-2-3)
Payton Struck (1-2-3)
Luke Pakulak (2-0-2)
Connor Elliott (0-2-2)
Isaac Tremblay (2-0-2)
Adam Csabi (2-0-2)
Shea Busch (0-2-2)
Anthony Cliche (2-0-2)
Jordin Palmer (0-1-1)
Maks Percic (0-1-1)
Nick Mikan (0-1-1)
Isaac Fecteau (0-1-1)
Ethan David (3-3 Record - 1 Shutout)
Let's take a look at the Salmon Arm Silverbacks:
The 22-9-0-2 Salmon Arm Silverbacks return from the All-Star break, are coming off a 7-1 win over the visiting Merritt Centennials January 13th. Tonight is the seventh meeting of the season between the Backs & Vipers. The last time these two teams met, the Vipers won 5-2 December 29th in Vernon. Tonight's the third and final game of a three game home stand. Salmon Arm is 14-1-0-1 at home this season. The Silverbacks have won four of their last five games and seven of their past ten games. Salmon Arm sits 3rd in the Interior Conference.
Salmon Arm Silverbacks 2023-24 Roster:
Salmon Arm Silverbacks 2023-24 regular season scoring leader:
Tristan Allen (5-24-29)
Salmon Arm Silverbacks 2023-24 Record/Stats:
Games Played: 33
Wins: 22
Losses: 9
Overtime Losses: 0
Shootout Losses: 2
Home Record: 14-1-0-1
Road Record: 8-8-0-1
Goals for: 115
Goals against: 82
Standings: 3rd Place Interior Conference
Salmon Arm Silverbacks Returning Players:
Casy Laylin 04
Reid Varkonyi 06
Lian Gayfer 05
Maddux Martin 05
Nathan Mackie 04
Ryan Gillespie 03
Isaac Lambert 03
Tristan Allen 03
Salmon Arm Silverbacks departed and traded players from last years team:
Raoul Boilard 06
Mathieu Bourgault 03
Owen Beckner 05
Hayden Stavroff 04
Jayden Grier 03
Ethan Ullrick 03
Ryan Buckley 04
Jules Boilard 04
Brandon Santa Juana 02
Liam Steele 04
Nic Leggett 05
Lynden Hanvold 04
CJ Foley 04
William Lavigne 02
Carter Richardson 05
Matthew Tovell 02
Salmon Arm's 2023-24 regular season home record vs Vernon:
2-1-0-0
Salmon Arm's 2023-24 regular season road record vs Vernon:
1-2-0-0
Salmon Arm Silverbacks 2023-24 regular season scoring leaders vs Vernon:
Ryan Gillespie (1-5-6)
Isaac Lambert (3-3-6)
Casy Laylin (2-2-4)
Tristan Allen (1-3-4)
Jacob Bonkowski (1-2-3)
Reid Varkonyi (2-1-3)
Ty Paisley (1-2-3)
Riley Ashe (1-1-2)
Marcus Broberg (0-2-2)
JJ Monteiro (1-1-2)
Madux Martin (1-1-2)
Nathan Mackie (1-1-2)
Nathan Mackie (1-1-2)
Adam Boatter (0-1-1)
Chris Kobelka (0-1-1)
Nicholas Wolfenberg (0-1-1)
Lian Gayfer (0-1-1)
Aidan Souligny (0-1-1)
Cole Cooksey (1-0-1)
Jonah Aegerter (1-0-1)
Ryan Grout (1-0 Record)
Eli Pulver (2-3 Record)
Tuesday, January 23, 2024
Binkley Commits To Vernon Vipers:
Here is the press release from the Vernon Vipers website,
Simon Binkley's Player Profile:
Rauman Lukko Sign Ex Viper Forward Jandric:
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Jandric.
Here is the press release from the Rauman Lukko website,
Rauman Lukko (Finnish for "lock") is a Finnish sports club based in Rauma, Finland. The club was founded as Rauma Woodin Lukko in 1936. The representative team currently plays in the Finnish Liiga, the premier men’s professional ice hockey league in Finland.
Jandric started the 2023-24 season with the ECHL Worcester Railers was traded to the ECHL Orlando Solar Bears October 18th 2023. The American Hockey League Springfield Thunderbirds recalled Jandric from the Solar Bears December 11th 2023. Jandric never played a game this season with the Thunderbirds. In 19 games with the Solar Bears, Jandric collected (10-goals-6-assists-16-points).
Jandric split the 2022-23 season with the ECHL Worcester Railers & American Hockey League Springfield Thunderbirds. Jandric played the past two seasons with the Worcester Railers before signing with the Springfield Thunderbirds November 18th 2022.
Jandric started the 2021-22 season at Merrimack College before signing his first professional contract with the ECHL Worcester Railers March 20th 2022. Jandric was released March 27th 2022 after playing in only 5 games. The Railers re-signed Jandric March 31st 2022. In 20 games with the Railers last season, Jandric collected (6-goals-7-assists-13-points). The American Hockey League Providence Bruins signed Jandric to a professional tryout contract April 29th 2022 before being released.
Jandric spent the past five seasons playing with three Universities from 2017-2022. Jandric committed to the University of Alaska-Fairbanks for the 2017-18 season. Jandric played three seasons in Alaska before transferring to Denver University for the 2020-21 season. After one season at Denver University, Jandric transferred to Merrimack College for the 2021-22 season.
Jandric played two seasons in Vernon from 2015-2017. In 115 games with the Vipers, Jandric collected (34-goals-39-assists-73-points).
Monday, January 22, 2024
Kresl Commits To Vernon Vipers:
Here is the press release from the Vernon Vipers website,
SIGNING ALERT! – Kresl Commits to Vipers For Next Season | Vernon Vipers
Charlie Kresl's Player Profile:
Charles Kresl - Stats, Contract, Salary & More (eliteprospects.com)
Mariners Place Former Viper Forward Lambert On Reserve:
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Lambert on reserve.
Here is the transaction from the ECHL website,
Lambert is in his first season with the ECHL Maine Mariners. In 25 games, Lambert has (6-goals-14-assists-20-points).
The American Hockey League Providence Bruins signed Lambert August 9th 2023 to a one-year, two-way American Hockey League contract. Lambert never played a game with the Bruins, was reassigned to the ECHL Maine Mariners October 11th 2023.
Lambert split the 2022-23 season with the ECHL Worcester Railers & American Hockey League Bridgeport Islanders.
Lambert played four seasons at the University of Michigan from 2018-2022 before signing his first professional contract with the American Hockey League Bridgeport Islanders. The Islanders signed Lambert April 18th 2022 on an amateur tryout agreement (ATO) before signing Lambert to a professional contract April 19th 2022.
Lambert attended the Calgary Flames development camp in 2018 & New York Islanders development camp in 2019.
Lambert played three seasons in Vernon from 2015-2018. In 156 games with the Vipers, Lambert collected (57-goals-85-assists-142-points).
Sunday, January 21, 2024
Future Of AJHL In Question After 5 Teams Join BCHL:
Here is the story from globalnews.ca,
Future of AJHL in question after 5 teams join BCHL | Globalnews.ca
Rochester Americans Recall Vipers Alumni Jandric From Jacksonville:
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have recalled former Vernon Vipers defenceman Chris Jandric from the ECHL Jacksonville Icemen.
Here is the transaction from the ECHL website,
Jandric is entering his first full season with the Jacksonville Icemen & Rochester Americans . The Americans reassigned Jandric to the ECHL Jacksonville Icemen December 29th 2023. In 7 games with the Americans, Jandric has (0-goals-0-assists-0-points). In 12 games with the Icemen, Jandric has (3-goals-5-assists-8-points).
Jandric played the past two seasons at the University of North Dakota before signing his first professional contract in late March 2023 with the American Hockey League Rochester Americans. Jandric picked up an assist in one game with the Americans last season.
Jandric recently attended the Buffalo Sabres development camp in July 2023.
Jandric was named to the 2022-23 National Collegiate Hockey Conference's All-Conference team.
Jandric committed to the University of Alaska-Fairbanks for the 2018-19 season. Jandric spent three years at the University of Alaska-Fairbanks from 2018-2021 before transferring to the University of North Dakota for the 2021-22 season.
Jandric attended the Arizona Coyotes Development Camp in July 2022.
Jandric played two seasons in Vernon from 2016-2018. In 108 games with the Vipers, Jandric collected (6-goals-45-assists-51-points).
Saturday, January 20, 2024
BCHL Top Prospects Game Highlights:
Here are the highlights from the BCHL YouTube page,
All of the goals scored in the 2024 BCHL Top Prospects Game (youtube.com)
BCHL Agrees To Terms With Five Alberta-Based Teams:
Here is the press release from the BCHL website,
BCHL agrees to terms with five Alberta-based teams | BCHL League Site
Here is the story from globalnews.ca,
5 teams from Alberta Junior Hockey League to join B.C. Hockey League | Globalnews.ca
The Alberta Junior Hockey League has cancelled games regarding the Brooks Bandits, Blackfalds Bulldogs and Spruce Grove Saints.
Here is the press release from the AJHL website,
AJHL STATEMENT | Alberta Junior Hockey League
Here is the press release from the Brooks Bandits website,
AJHL cancels Bandits January 20th and 21st home games | Brooks Bandits
Five AJHL Teams To Join the BCHL For Next Season:
I did some research last night and come across several other reports online with the same story.
Here is the story from lakelandconnect.net,
Steve Ewen from the Vancouver Province released this on his X page,
Bonnyville Pontiacs play by play Michael Menzies released this on his X page,
Michael Menzies on X: "I'm hearing that 5 #AJHL teams: the Brooks Bandits, Spruce Grove Saints, Okotoks Oilers, Sherwood Park Crusaders, and Blackfalds Bulldogs have all been accepted into the #BCHL for next season." / X (twitter.com)
Coastal Conference:
Coastal West:
Alberni Valley Bulldogs
Cowichan Capitals
Nanaimo Clippers
Powell River Kings
Victoria Grizzlies
Coastal East:
Chilliwack Chiefs
Coquitlam Express
Langley Rivermen
Merritt Centennials
Prince George Spruce Kings
Surrey Eagles
Interior Conference:
Interior West:
Penticton Vees
Salmon Arm Silverbacks
Trail Smoke Eaters
Vernon Vipers
West Kelowna Warriors
Interior East:
Cranbrook Bucks
Blackfalds Bulldogs
Brooks Bandits
Okotoks Oilers
Sherwood Park Crusaders
Spruce Grove Saints
Friday, January 19, 2024
BCHL Top Prospects Game: Game Recap - Team Coastal 10 Team Interior 3
Boxscore-Game Summary,
Team Coastal @ Team Interior Friday, January 19, 2024 | BCHL League Site
Game Report,
Text Box Score,
Official statistics powered by LeagueStat.com (hockeytech.com)
Vernon Vipers 2023-24 Player Sponsorship Draft:
Here is the Sponsorship Draft from the Vernon Vipers YouTube page,
Former Viper Herbst & The Buckeyes Live On TSN 2:
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Here is the press release from the Ohio State Buckeyes website,
Here is the press release from the Minnesota Golden Gophers website,
Herbst is in his third season at Ohio State University. In 2 games with the Buckeyes, Herbst is 0-0-0 with a 7.36 GAA
Prior to committing to Ohio State University, Herbst played the 2020-21 season in the United States Hockey League with the Dubuque Fighting Saints & Omaha Lancers.
Herbst started the 2020-21 season with the North American Hockey League Lone Star Brahmas. The Brahmas signed Herbst in early January 2021. Herbst never played a game with the Brahmas was released January 6th 2021. The United States Hockey League Dubuque Fighting Saints signed Herbst in January 2021. Herbst went 3-0 with a 3.33 GAA before being traded to the United States Hockey League Omaha Lancers February 2nd 2021. In 8 games with the Lancers, Herbst went 3-2 with a 3.60 GAA
Herbst was drafted 62nd overall in Round 3 of the North American Hockey League Entry Draft by the Jamestown Rebels.
Herbst played one season in Vernon with the 2019-20 Vernon Vipers. Herbst started the 2019-20 season with the United States Hockey League Chicago Steel before being acquired by the Vernon Vipers October 10th 2019. No official details were released on the trade. In 34 games with the Vipers, Herbst went 20-10 with 1 shutout and a 2.91 GAA
Thursday, January 18, 2024
Kim & David Announced To BCHL Skills Competition:
Here is the press release from the BCHL website,
Event participants announced for outdoor Skills Competition Jan. 20 | BCHL League Site
Kim is in his first season with the Vipers. In 32 games, Kim leads the team in scoring with (11-goals-25-assists-36-points).
Owen Kim's Player Profile:
Owen Kim - Stats, Contract, Salary & More (eliteprospects.com)
David is in his third season with the Vipers. In 24 games, David is 14-10 with 2 shutouts and a 2.79 GAA
Ethan David's Player Profile:
Ethan David - Stats, Contract, Salary & More (eliteprospects.com)
Cleaves & Ex Viper Ashton Listed By NHL Central Scouting:
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Ashton are two of 10 BCHL players listed by NHL Central Scouting.
Here is the press release from the BCHL website,
10 BCHL players listed by NHL Central Scouting on Mid-Term Rankings | BCHL League Site
Cleaves started the season with the Vernon Vipers, before returning to his high school team for the school year. In 6 games, Cleaves collected (1-goal-0-assists-1-point). Cleaves has committed to the Vipers for the 2024-25 season.
Cooper Cleaves Player Profile:
Cooper Cleaves - Stats, Contract, Salary & More (eliteprospects.com)
The Vernon Vipers traded Ashton & forward Copeland Fricker to the Langley Rivermen June 29th 2023 for forwards Owen Kim & Walker Gelbard.
The United States Hockey League Sioux City Musketeers selected Ashton in May 2023 233rd overall in Round 16 at the USHL Draft.
Ashton played the past two seasons in Vernon. In 81 games with the Vipers, Ashton collected (2-goals-7-assists-9-points).
Wednesday, January 17, 2024
Cleaves Commits To Vernon Vipers For 2024-25 Season:
Here is the press release from the Vernon Vipers website,
SIGNING ALERT! – Cooper Cleaves Commits To Vipers | Vernon Vipers
Cleaves started the season with the Vernon Vipers before returning to his high school team for the school year. In 6 games, Cleaves collected (1-goal-0-assists-1-point).
Cooper Cleaves Player Profile:
Cooper Cleaves - Stats, Contract, Salary & More (eliteprospects.com)
Minor Hockey Organizations Caught Up In Dispute Between Hockey Canada And BCHL:
Here is the story from CFJCtoday.com,
Minor hockey organizations caught up in dispute between Hockey Canada and BCHL | CFJC Today Kamloops
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
Heartlanders Activate Vernon Viper Alumni Coughlin From Injured Reserve:
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Liam Coughlin from Injured Reserve.
Here is the transaction from the ECHL website,
Coughlin is in his first season with the ECHL Iowa Heartlanders, signing as a free agent August 14th 2023. In 26 games, Coughlin has (4-goals-5-assists-9-points).
Coughlin played the past two seasons with the ECHL Worcester Railers. Coughlin signed with the Railers as a free agent August 3rd 2021. In 52 games last season, Coughlin collected (10-goals-12-assists-22-points).
During the 2021-22 season Coughlin was called up to the American Hockey League, playing with the Bridgeport Islanders, Springfield Thunderbirds & Providence Bruins before being returned to the ECHL/Worcester Railers.
Coughlin played four seasons at Vermont University from 2015-2019 before signing his first professional contract with the American Hockey League Rockford IceHogs May 19th 2019.
Coughlin was drafted 130th overall by the Edmonton Oilers in Round 5 at the 2014 NHL Entry Draft. Coughlin didn't play a game with the Oilers, was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks July 6th 2015. Coughlin has yet to play a game with the Blackhawks.
Coughlin played two seasons in Vernon from 2013-2015. In 107 games with the Vipers, Coughlin collected (38-goals-67-assists-105-points).
Americans Reassign Ex Viper Defenceman Jandric To Icemen:
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have reassigned former Vernon Vipers defenceman Chris Jandric to the ECHL Jacksonville Icemen.
Here is the press release from the Jacksonville Icemen website,
Jandric is entering his first full season with the Jacksonville Icemen & Rochester Americans . The Americans recalled Jandric from Jacksonville November 6th 2023. In 7 games with the Americans, Jandric has (0-goals-0-assists-0-points). In 12 games with the Icemen, Jandric has (3-goals-5-assists-8-points).
Jandric played the past two seasons at the University of North Dakota before signing his first professional contract in late March 2023 with the American Hockey League Rochester Americans. Jandric picked up an assist in one game with the Americans last season.
Jandric recently attended the Buffalo Sabres development camp in July 2023.
Jandric was named to the 2022-23 National Collegiate Hockey Conference's All-Conference team.
Jandric committed to the University of Alaska-Fairbanks for the 2018-19 season. Jandric spent three years at the University of Alaska-Fairbanks from 2018-2021 before transferring to the University of North Dakota for the 2021-22 season.
Jandric attended the Arizona Coyotes Development Camp in July 2022.
Jandric played two seasons in Vernon from 2016-2018. In 108 games with the Vipers, Jandric collected (6-goals-45-assists-51-points).
Monday, January 15, 2024
Hytec Weekly Wrap Up With McKee & Cleaves:
Here is the interview from the Vernon Vipers YouTube page,
Savannah Ghost Pirates Activate Former Viper Swetlikoff From Reserve:
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forward Alex Swetlikoff from reserve.
Here is the transaction from the ECHL website,
Swetlikoff has split this season between the ECHL Savannah Ghost Pirates & American Hockey League Henderson Silver Knights. The Silver Knights assigned Swetlikoff to Savannah December 13th 2023.
In 8 games with the Silver Knights, Swetlikoff has (2-goals-0-assists-2-points). In 10 games with the Ghost Pirates, Swetlikoff has (5-goals-3-assists-8-points).
Swetlikoff played the 2022-23 season with the ECHL Savannah Ghost Pirates.
Swetlikoff played parts of four seasons with the Western Hockey League Kelowna Rockets & Everett Silvertips before signing his first professional contract with the American Hockey League Henderson Silver Knights August 19th 2022. The Ghost Pirates claimed Swetlikoff off waivers from the Silver Knights October 10th 2022.
Swetlikoff attended the Las Vegas Golden Knights Development Camp in July 2022.
Swetlikoff was drafted by the Lethbridge Hurricanes, played two and a half seasons with his hometown Kelowna Rockets before being traded to Everett August 25th 2021.
Swetlikoff played parts of two seasons in Vernon with the 2017-18 & 2018-19 Vernon Vipers. Swetlikoff left the Vipers December 18th 2018 for the Western Hockey League Kelowna Rockets. The Rockets acquired Swetlikoff's rights from the Lethbridge Hurricanes December 6th 2018. In 78 games with the Vipers, Swetlikoff collected (11-goals-23-assists-34-points).
Sunday, January 14, 2024
Vernon Vipers Collision Of The Week - Nick Mikan
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Nick Mikan with a hit on Cranbrook Bucks forward Julian Frias in a 4-0 win over the visiting Cranbrook Bucks January 5th 2024.
Here is the CSN Frank's Collision of the Week from the Vernon Vipers YouTube page,
Rochester Jr. Americans Sign Former Viper Palmer:
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signed former Vernon Vipers defenceman Jordin Palmer.
Here is the release from the Rochester Jr. Americans X page,
Palmer committed to the Vernon Vipers January 17th 2023 for the 2023-24 season. Palmer was recently no longer on the Vipers roster this past week. In 22 games with the Vipers, Palmer collected (1-goal-7-assists-8-points).
Jordin Palmer's Player Profile:
Jordin Palmer - Stats, Contract, Salary & More (eliteprospects.com)
Saturday, January 13, 2024
Kim Scores 11 Seconds Into Hockey Game:
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tonight's hockey game.
Here is Owen Kim's goal from the BCHL X page,
Vernon Vipers forward Owen Kim scores on the power play at 19:51 of the 1st period.
Here is Owen Kim's goal from the BCHL X page,
BCHL on X: "https://t.co/t26ukT0DiU" / X (twitter.com)
Owen Kim's Player Profile:
Owen Kim - Stats, Contract, Salary & More (eliteprospects.com)
Game Recap - Vernon 3 Coquitlam 2
I was born and raised in Vernon, BC and been watching/following Junior hockey in Vernon my whole life. My family watched Senior men's hockey in Vernon in the 1950's and has been watching Junior hockey in Vernon since it started in 1961. I have two family members that played Junior hockey in Vernon. I have had season tickets since 1990 and missed 5 home games since 2004 and 46 home games since 1990. I started and created this blog in November 2008 and have over 2.7 million viewers. For anyone who couldn't watch or attend tonight's Vipers game, here are my thoughts and views from tonight's hockey game. You may agree or disagree, but we all have our own opinion on the hockey game and see things differently. I try to be professional and give a fare game recap from both sides. Thank you for visiting my blog.
I was at tonight's Vernon Vipers-Coquitlam Express game as the Vipers defeated the Express 3-2 in front of 2,850 fans at Kal Tire Place.
Starting Goaltenders:
Vernon Vipers: Colin Reay
Coquitlam Express: Ethan Simcoe
1st Period: The hometown Vipers with a quick start, would get the hometown bounce allowing Owen Kim to open the scoring at 0:11 getting the large crowd into the hockey game early. This was a fairly even played opening period but I thought the Vipers had a slight edge in play at times. I thought Vernon had the better scoring chances and had more shots then were counted as I noticed on a few times shots weren't being registered. The Vipers had way more then nine shots on goal, I would guess at least five to six shots weren't counted. The Snakes had several good looks/opportunities couldn't capitalize on their chances. Both teams played hard, were physical that made for an entertaining 1st period. The Express battled, are a hard working team but didn't generate nearly as many quality chances as the Vipers. It was 2-2 after 20 minutes of play. Both teams went 1-1 with the man advantage. The Express outshot the Vipers 12-9.
Here are some photo's I took before and during tonight's Vernon Vipers-Coquitlam Express game.
2nd Period: This was a physical period with both teams laying the body and both teams getting chippy/involved in scrums/altercations after the whistle. Tempers heated up on several occasions. Coquitlam was the better of the two teams as the Express had the better of the play, more puck possession, zone time and shots on goal. Coquitlam is a hard working team, plays hard, is physical but also plays with an edge and doesn't like to be hit or at least not tonight. It seemed like anytime Vernon laid out a big hit, the Express retaliated with a slassh, a push, a shove or a punch trying to get back at the Snakes. The Vipers didn't look like the same team I saw in the 1st period. The Snakes with several turnovers, missed passes, players out of position and just didn't look sharp. Vernon didn't get nearly as many quality chances but just didn't generate a whole lot of opportunities this period. Hank Cleaves with the lone goal of the period, ended up being the game winner. It was 3-2 Vernon after 40 minutes of play. Both teams went 0-1 with the power play.
3rd Period: It was fairly even to start the final frame as the play went back and fourth with the play/momentum changing but as the period continued the visiting Coquitlam Express changed the flow of the game and the momentum and took over the play and were the better team for the remainder of the hockey game. The Express carried the better of the play, had more zone time, puck possession, were winning the races, puck battles and outworking Vernon. Coquitlam had some good looks and a couple of quality chances, pushed hard in a nail biter of a finish. The Express would get Ethan Simcoe to the bench for the extra attacker with about 1:20ish remaining and pushed hard, had two or three real good looks/opportunities at the top of the crease but couldn't solve Colin Reay. The Snakes held their own and had a good start but after six or so minutes couldn't keep pace with Coquitlam and were back on their heels, were missing passes, turning over pucks, looked sloppy, out of position, didn't play well with the lead to finish the hockey game. The Viper forwards were sitting way up by the blueline while the defence was trying to come out of their own end. Vernon with the lone PP of the period had a chance to grab a two goal lead and some insurance, struggled with the man advantage, didn't get a single shot on the power play. The Vipers iced the puck several times, missing on several empty nets, giving the Express another shot on a game tying goal. The Vipers didn't look good and were lucky to hang on for the win. Vernon come away with the 3-2 victory. The Vipers went 0-1 with the man advantage. The Express outshot the Vipers 11-4.
Vernon Vipers Top Performers:
Owen Kim (2 goals) Played a a hard fought game and was the Vipers best player this evening. Kim who has been one of the Snakes hardest working forwards this season, come to play and played a strong game. Not the biggest kid but doesn't back down, takes his lumps but gives them back.
Lukas McCloskey (1 assist) Has really come into his own as of late and been one of the better Vipers d-men the last few games. Chipped in with a helper on the game winning goal, played well in the win.
Isaac Tremblay I thought played hard, had the puck on his stick often just didn't get any puck luck or bounces go his way, tried generating/creating some offence with several plays
Colin Reay (24 saves) I heard Ethan David is sick or under the weather? Means Colin Reay has gotten back to back starts this weekend. The Vipers goaltending has been excellent this season. Reay took the loss in Penticton on Friday, was solid in net got the win this evening and was solid between the pipes again tonight. Reay with some timely saves in the 2nd and 3rd periods, none bigger then down the stretch inside the final minute of play with the Express pressing.
Game Thought's: Vernon Vipers
- The Snakes have won five of their last seven home games
- The Vipers are 2-0 vs Coquitlam this season
- I thought Vernon played a good 1st period. Both teams were fairly even but give the Vipers a slight edge in play. The Vipers had more looks/quality chances. The Snakes were credited with nine shots on goal in that opening frame, where I counted several shots that weren't counted. The Snakes could have easily been ahead by two goals at least if they would have capitalized on more of their opportunities
- The Vipers have won three of their last five games but lost six of their last ten games
- Vernon went 1-4 with the man advantage
- Forward Carson McGinley made his Vipers debut tonight after singing with the hockey team on Thursday
- A large crowd tonight. Tonight's attendance was announced at 2,850 the second biggest crowd of the season
- Vernon played so well in the 1st period didn't play so well in the 2nd period. Hank Cleaves scored the only goal of the period, which ended up to be the game winner, didn't look or play well in the middle frame. I didn't think the Vipers generated enough offence, were turning over pucks, missing passes, struggled coming out of their own end, caught out of position, making mistakes, didn't look sharp
- The last time these two teams met, the Vipers beat Coquitlam 8-1 October 23rd at the BCHL Showcase in Seattle
- I wasn't very impressed with newly acquired forward Patrick Kral. Kral was signed on Tuesday after playing this season with the Vancouver Giants. Kral made his Viper debut Friday in Penticton. I didn't notice him at all in last night's game vs the Vees and didn't see much from him tonight/ Let's give the kid a few games to see if he improves
- The Viper power play struggled. Vernon went 1-4 didn't look organized with the man advantage
- The Vipers and Express met in the Fred Page Cup Finals in 2014 with the Express winning the league Championship
- The Vipers improve to 12-4-1-0 at Kal Tire Place
- The Snakes next game is January 24th in Salmon Arm
- For a team heading into the 3rd with a one goal lead, that's not the way you want to try and close out a one goal hockey game. I thought Vernon started off the 3rd ok as both teams were fairly even to start as the play went back and fourth before the Express shifted the ice, changed momentum and took over the play for the remainder of the period. The Vipers struggled in their own end, were turning over pucks, losing battles, races for pucks, out of position, missing passes, back on their heels, didn't look sharp or a team with confidence. Vernon with the only PP of the period, had a chance to get an insurance goal and a two goal lead struggled with the man advantage, didn't get a single shot on goal or any sustained pressure or zone time. Coquitlam was the better team and outplayed and outworked the Vipers for most of the 3rd
- The Snakes play six of their next seven games on the road
- How great have the crowds been this season? Some of the bigger crowds in several years
- The Vipers were very lucky to hang on for the win as the Express gave Vernon a good push in the 3rd and come very close on several occasions to forcing overtime
- Both goaltenders played very well
- It's great to see someone has switched up the music at the Viper games and started playing some different tunes instead of the same old same old game after game after game
- Forward Erik Pastro took a high stick in the 1st period, went to the dressing room with the trainer but retruned to the game within minutes
- I wasn't too impressed with newly acquired forward Carson McGinley. Making his Vipers debut tonight turned over the puck on Coquitlam's first goal and was almost caught for too many men on the ice. This kid can skate, is quick on his feet but I just didn't see much tonight. Maybe nerves? Let's give him a couple of games to see what he's like
- I heard goaltender Ethan David is sick/or under the weather?
- Before tonight's game former Vipers Colton Sparrow and Bryce Kakoske were inducted into the Vernon Vipers alumni club. The Vipers have done this before in the past but it's been many many years since doing this. I wish the Vipers would start a wall of fame or ring of honour to honour former Vernon Junior hockey greats
- The Vipers & Express won't play each other this regular season
- Both goal lights weren't working tonight. One set of goal lights haven't been working for at least a month and have been on and off for the past few years
- The Vipers are five points back of 3rd place Salmon Arm
- Since early to mid November this Viper team went from starting the season 7-1-0-0 to now being very inconsistent
- For two teams that only see each other twice this season, tempers sure heated up often as both teams didn't like one another
- With the win, Vernon improves to 20-12-1-0 sit 4th in the Interior Conference
Coquitlam Express Top Performers:
Luke Vardy played very well on Coquitlam's blueline. This kid blocked several shots, was aggressive with and without the puck, played well at both ends of the rink
Drew Garzone Was strong in the faceoff circle, played well through out tonight's contest
Sam Frandina Not the biggest kid but plays hard and plays with an edge. This kid was in the face of several Vipers in all three periods, getting under the skin of the Vipers. Was physical, laid the body, gave a couple of shots here and there, was engaged and involved in the after the whistle activities
Noah Dziver (1 goal & 1 assist) Played very well was one of the more dangerous Express forwards. Was hard to contain and defend against, was involved in the play, always with the puck on his stick and in and around the net
Matheson Mason Another forward who was dangerous, has soft hands, is skilled, can move the puck, make plays in a hurry, has a quick release, involved in the play, always in and around the net, hard to defend and contain, gave the Snakes defenders troubles all game
Ethan Simcoe (34 saves) Was tested often through out the opening frame, did give up two goals but kept the Express in the 1st period with the Vipers getting several good looks/quality chances. Simcoe made some big saves and timely saves as solid in goal for the visiting Express
Game Thought's: Coquitlam Express
- Tonight was the seventh and final game of a seven game road trip
- This was the Express first game in Vernon since January 4th 2020
- Coquitlam went 1-3 on the power play
- I thought the Express played a very good 1st period. Both teams were fairly even giving Vernon a slight edge in play due to more looks/quality chances
- Coquitlam has three wins in Vernon since the 2003-04 season.
- The Express are chippy and play with an edge
- The Express are three points back of Chilliwack for 5th place
- Coquitlam is a hard team to play against, the Express don't give you much room or time or space
- Head Coach Patrick Sexton played two seasons with the Penticton Vees from 2013-2015. Sexton was captain of the 2014-15 Vees
- The Express went 1-6 on their seven game road trip with the lone win a 5-4 victory in Nanaimo January 6th
- I thought the Express were the better team in the 2nd and 3rd periods. This team never stops skating, outworked and outskated the Vipers in the 2nd and 3rd periods. Coquitlam were forcing Vernon into making mistakes, turning over pucks and playing on their heels. The Express were winning the battles, races for pucks and come very close to forcing overtime
- Coquitlam falls to 7-10-1-1 on the road this season
- The Express are a much better hockey team then their record shows
- Coquitlam is 0-2 vs the Vipers this season
- The Express next game is January 24th vs the visiting Chilliwack Chiefs
- Coquitlam has lost four of their last five games and lost seven of their last ten games
- The Express last win in Vernon was a 5-4 victory on January 4th 2020
- The Express are quick, play hard, physical, battle/compete and never stop skating
- Both teams were physical, finished their checks and played hard
- With the loss, Coquitlam falls to 15-15-1-1 sit 6th in the Coastal Conference
Scratches:
Vernon Vipers:
Noah Dorey (Injured)
Owen King (Out for the season)
Payton Struck
Luke Pakulak (Injured)
Coquitlam Express:
Ben Feenan
Cale Colwell
Nate Crema
Joseph Odyniec
Eric Young
Energy Player of the Game:
Lukas McCloskey (1 assist)
Three Star's:
1st Star: Owen Kim (2 goals)
2nd Star: Hank Cleaves (1 goal & 1 assist)
3rd Star: Noah Dziver (1 goal & 1 assist)
Boxscore-Game Summary,
Game Report,
Text Box Score,
Vernon Junior Hockey History website,
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