Talking points
Well, a win’s a win. This one could really have been a blow to Everett’s psyche, giving up the tying goal with 1.2 seconds remaining. Despite Kamloops being short-handed. Despite the puck being behind the Kamloops net with less than 10 seconds remaining. Despite the final desperation shot coming from the blue line off the rush.
But the Tips were fortunate to take a power play into overtime, and with players like Zach Hamill and Kyle Beach at their disposal, you have to like Everett’s chances on a four-on-three. Hamill’s wrister from the point through traffic was hardly a special goal, but it did the trick.
However, Everett didn’t exactly put on a clinic of how to play a third period with a one-goal lead. The Tips barely entered Kamloops’ zone, far too intent on trying to protect that one-goal advantage. It looked a little like a flashback to the 2003-04 season. It may have been a little harsh the way it happened, but Kamloops probably deserved that tying goal.
One quick Everett lineup note. The Tips tried yet another player on the No. 1 line with Zach Hamill and Kyle Beach as Brennan Sonne lined up on the left. He’s the third different linemate Hamill and Beach have had this season, following Dan Gendur and Lukas Vartovnik.
Turning point
With Everett clinging to its 2-1 lead, Kamloops’ C.J. Stretch found himself with a clean breakaway with 8:02 remaining. However, Leland Irving made a great glove save to preserve Everett’s lead. With the Blazers already having momentum, a goal there may have opened the floodgates.
Hit of the day
A lot of solid hits, but nothing spectacular. I guess I’ll give it to Matt Ius for his crunching hit of a Kamloops defenseman behind the Blazers net, just because it caused a turnover and led directly to a quality Everett scoring chance.
Three stars
First star: Kyle Beach, Everett. A goal, two assists and, can you believe it, stayed out of the penalty box the entire game.
Second star: Dan Gendur, Everett. A goal and an assist, though he’s got to quit giving up the puck at the point on the power play.
Third star: Zach Hamill, Everett. Scored the game winner, and started winning faceoffs in the third period after struggling in the first and second.
The Herald’s honorable mention: Dane Crowley, Everett. The true unsung hero of this game, was a rock on Everett’s defense.
Scratches
For Everett, goaltender David Reekie (mono) is sick. Center Zach Dailey (concussion) is injured. Forward Tyler Skauge and defensemen Jeff Regier, Eddie Friesen and Chris de la Lande were healthy scratches.
For Kamloops, defenseman Mark Schneider (wrist) is injured. Forward Mark Hall and defenseman Darcy Huisman were healthy scratches.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
