TALKING POINTS
Kent Simpson has probably been the biggest factor in Everett’s turnaround the past month. But even on current form this was a pretty special performance.
Portland’s offense was on its game tonight. The Winterhawks had the bulk of possession, often keeping Everett pinned
in its own zone and constantly intercepting clearing attempts at the blue line. But Simpson was always in the right place at the right time. He held every shot he could, and when he had to give up a rebound he calmly put it in the corner. The only shots the Winterhawks could get past Simpson were ones that drew iron as Portland hit the post or crossbar three times.
Both of Everett’s goals were scored on short-handed breakaways, and the Tips once again were effective on the penalty kill, holding Portland 0-for-4. The Tips are now at 81.2 percent on the penalty kill. Is this really the same unit that was hovering around 76 percent throughout the first half?
This was also Everett’s first victory against Portland this season. The Tips were 0-for-6 prior to tonight, though all of those games were close. I’m sure the Tips are thrilled to finally get the breakthrough against the one Western Conference team they had yet to beat this season.
TURNING POINT
Late in the first period, with Everett on the power play, Portland broke two-on-zero after Tips defenseman Brennan Yadlowski fell down trying to keep the puck in the offensive zone. But Simpson moved well to his left to deny Brad Ross, signaling his intention of keeping the puck out of the net tonight.
HIT OF THE DAY
Everett’s Rasmus Rissanen had several solid hits, the pick of them coming midway through the first period when he shouldered down Tayler Jordan.
THREE STARS
First star: Simpson. 45 saves, as well as I’ve seen him play this season.
Second star: Scott MacDonald, Everett. One goal, the first of the short-handed breakaways.
Third star: Ryan Johansen, Portland. Had two of the Winterhawk shots that drew iron.
The Herald’s honorable mention: Sven Bartschi, Portland. Had Everett’s defense on edge the first two periods.
BOX SCORE
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