Game Day Kelowna

The Broncos went through a vigorous game-day skate earlier today as they prepare for tonight's game against the Rockets.

The Broncos have travelled some 2100 kms on the bus so far on the trip and have only played two games.

It's snowy, cloudy day here in Canada's playground. Snow that was once melting when it hit the ground is now collecting with a layer of white.

The Broncos haven't allowed a goal by the Rockets in nearly three years. In fact, as Regan Bartel in his blog pointed out, the last goal scored by a Rocket against the Broncos was way back in December of 2005 when Clayton Bauer scored an empty-netter in the final minutes.

Since then, both Mark Guggenberger and Travis Yonkman have posted shutouts against the Rockets in back-to-back years. In fact, Yonks and I were laughing about his last start here. 0-0 through regulation and overtime as he went head-to-head with his former midget teammate Kris Westblom.

Hopefully the newly named "DDT" line (old wrestling fans can relate to this one) can continue at the pace set in Prince George Wednesday night. The Dansereau /Dowling/Tassone line combined for 11 points against the Cougars in a wild one.

Not sure on Cody Eakin. He may be a game-time decision. The Rockets will be without Kyle St. Denis (wrist), Tyler Myers (World Juniors) and leading scorer Jaime Benn (World Juniors).

Don't be surprised if these teams take an extra look at each other with the trade deadline about a month away. There's always something that seems to happen between these two teams. Both GM's have a good relationship with each other and there was some early interest from the Rockets regarding goaltender Travis Yonkman. Bruce Hamilton was quite forthcoming in our pre-game interview Wednesday night when he said they still might have to shore up their goaltending situation if Kris Lazaruk can't provide what they're looking for down the stretch. He said "we will have to do something" in regards to their goaltending.

The Rockets will also likely bring in a veteran defenseman which the Broncos have plenty. Especially with Jesse Dudas set to return after the Christmas break.

Food for thought.