Nick Patterson
TALKING POINTS
Chalk up two points for Eric Comrie.
Tri-City’s goaltender was the story tonight. Comrie may be a 17-year-old in his first season as Tri-City’s No. 1. But tonight he looked like an NHL-ready 19-year-old as he made one spectacular save after another. This was particularly true during the second half of the game, when the Tips created all kinds of quality scoring chances, including outshooting the Americans 18-4 in the third period. But Comrie was up to the challenge, and on the rare occasions the Tips did beat Comrie they could only draw iron.
This was the second time Everett was shut out in its first five games. Normally this would be alarming. However, if the Tips regularly create as many scoring chances as they did tonight, they won’t have to worry too much about getting shut out. It was also the first time this season Everett had more power-play opportunities than its opponent (5-2). It’s amazing what happens when you possess the puck.
This game was a huge contrast to the previous game played at Comcast Arena. That contest, which pitted the Tips and the Prince George Cougars, saw 12 goals scored. Comrie was the main reason why there were 10 fewer tonight.
TURNING POINT
Comrie made many key saves, but the most important probably came midway through the second period. Tri-City had a 1-0 lead, but Everett had a lengthy five-on-three power play. Ryan Murray got an opportunity to line up a shot from the high slot and wired one toward the top corner. But Comrie made an amazing reaction glove save and held on, preserving Tri-City’s lead.
HIT OF THE DAY
Late in the third period Everett had a good sequence on the forecheck when Nick Walters laid a solid hit into the boards on one defenseman as he moved the puck to his partner, then Cody Fowlie plastered the other defenseman into the boards.
THREE STARS
First star: Comrie. 35 saves. This was no easy shutout.
Second star: Malte Stromwall, Tri-City. His opening goal broke the ice.
Third star: Carson Stadnyk, Everett. A bit of a head scratcher, but the Tips certainly deserved a star.
The Herald’s honorable mention: Landon Oslanski, Everett. Was on target, both with his shots from the point and his outlet passes.
BOX SCORE
