Keen's Korner

Blazers Take Streak into Kelowna

2012-01-24T15:41:00.001-06:00

Riding a season high nine-game winning streak - the longest since the 1998-99 season, the Blazers head into Kelowna tomorrow night looking to keep things going. Here's a few notes as the division rivals get set to battle.

- It's the first meeting between the teams since late October. The Blazers have won all three contests this season and will get very familiar with the Rockets with still five head-to-head games on the schedule. The Blazers are 16-2-0-1 against BC division teams and haven't lost to Kelowna, Victoria or Vancouver in regulation time this season.

- Kelowna should be energized after a come-from-behind 4-3 shootout win Saturday over the Vancouver Giants. The win did the Blazers a favor that night. The Blazers take a 12 point lead a top the BC Division with a game in-hand.

- Chase Schaber...so hot right now. Pardon the "Zoolander" reference but the Blazer captain has scored six goals added four assists and is a +7 in his last five games.

- Tomorrow's game is a Shaw TV game from Prospera Place. Dan Russell, Bill Wilms and Kirk Fraser are scheduled to call the action.

- Where do the Blazers find themselves in the CHL Top 10 Rankings this week? Ranked 4th last week, many believe the Blazers will jump two spots to #2. The OHL's London Knights have the best win percentage in the CHL and will likely take over the #1 spot from the Tri-City Americans.

-Former Blazer turned owner Mark Recchi was one of the guests of honour at the White House yesterday in Washington DC with his Bruins teammates.
Recchi on white house (news 2) by keen941

- The Blazers were on hand for the BMO Bank of Montreal Ultimate Fan Contest. Below, Brandon Herrod, Chase Schaber and Brendan Ranford sign autographs.

Robert didn't win the Ultimate Fan but was one of three finalists.

Congratulations to Angela who won the award. She dressed up with her mom as a "two-headed" Blazer fan. Very unique!

WHL Trade Deadline

2012-01-10T11:17:00.000-06:00

The place to be is twitter today for WHL trade talk. I'll update the blog if the Blazers make a move at some point. Follow today's discussion @JonKeenNLSports.

Jon

Brandon Herrod talks trade

2012-01-01T19:21:00.000-06:00

I caught up to the newest member of the Blazers before tonight's game against Prince George.

Brandon herrod by keen941

Blazers Acquire Brandon Herrod from Prince Albert

2011-12-31T11:41:00.001-06:00

I spoke with Blazer GM Craig Bonner this morning on today's deal:

Bones by keen941

1st rounder Thomson to make Blazer Debut

2011-12-26T11:52:00.001-06:00

News Release:

The Kamloops Blazers will have 15-year-old Jordan Thomson in their line up following the Christmas break. Thomson is expected to make his Blazers debut in Vancouver on December 27^th and will stay with the Blazers until January 2^nd.

Thomson was selected by the Blazers 4^th overall in this past years WHL Bantam Draft. This year, Thomson has 3 goals and 12 assists in 20 games with the Southwest Cougars of the Manitoba Midget AAA League. Thomson has helped the Cougars to a 24-3-2 record so far this season. Thomson will wear #5 during his Blazers debut.

Mid-Season Report Card

2011-12-25T19:10:00.000-06:00

As mentioned a couple weeks back...it a mid-season update on the August 25th post Entitled "10 Things the Blazers Must Overcome" to have a strong season.

I'll keep in italics what was said in the August post as a reference...

Let's run down the list.....

1. Discipline:

Yes it might as well be the number one issue. Last year's team showed at times a complete lack of it. Leading the league in PIMS for a good chunk of the season, the Blazers finished with the 4th most in the WHL with 1500 as a team. Key players were also suspended for parts of the season including Chase Schaber, Brendan Ranford, and Jordan DePape. Players served a total of 22 games in suspensions and quite frankly the team was in no position to get a break from the officiating for most of the season. I know discipline will be stressed throughout camp by the coaching staff and will be a focal point of this team moving forward.

Mid-season: A vast improvement. The Blazers have taken the least amount of penalties in the BC Division through the half-way point. They've taken the third fewest PIMS in the Western Conference. It's been a focal point of this team since camp opened. The message from the coaching staff, and policing of the group from the players themselves has been the reason for the turnaround. I think the fact the Blazers have been in most games has also added to the better numbers. Really, through the first half, I can't think of too many bad, selfish, penalties. There was a few on the eastern swing to close off the first half, but that's about it. Suspensions are also way down with this group. Josh Caron's three-gamer for a check to the head right before he was traded to Everett is the only one on record.

2. Coaching Dynamic

The Blazers have not one, but two WHL head coaches on the bench this season. That is a good thing in my opinion but it poses some potential logistical problems. With the addition of Dave Hunchak as the team's Associate Coach, the Blazers will have to find a dynamic that works. Who controls what, who says what, and who puts their foot down. So far it's going well between Guy Charron and Dave Hunchak. I'm sure the two will be communicating their thoughts openly to get the best out of the scenario. Let's keep in mind, Guy felt Hunchak was the right guy for the job.

Mid-season: It's proving to be a great set-up for Guy Charron and Dave Hunchak. Guy has allowed Hunchak to implement his beliefs, trusting on him with his experience in the WHL as both a head and assistant coach. There isn't any reminisce of a power-struggle between the two either - they just aren't the type. It's my belief that both feel they are putting a stamp on this year's team. What a luxury to have two WHL Head Coaches on the bench. Charron runs the forwards, Hunchak the back-end and there's no doubt it is where they are most comfortable.

3. Penalty Kill

This has been a point of contention for this hockey club and is exposed more by the lack of discipline discussed above. Last year's PK had a decent 2nd half of the season but still only killed off powerplays at 76.4% - 20th out of 22 teams. Two seasons ago the PK was at 75.3% - again 20th out of 22 teams. A year before that, 76.9%. You have to go back to the 06/07 season to find the last time the PK was over 80% and even that year it was only 80.2%.

Mid-season: The penalty-kill has seen considerable improvement so far...more so on a consistency basis. It took a dip during the eastern road swing to finish the first half at 79.8% - 11th out of the 22 teams. That's the lowest it's been pretty much all season though. The PK has been good....it hasn't been lights out by any means. The one thing the Blazers have added this season is a shorthanded goal threat. Leading the WHL with 12 SH goals at the break, the Blazers scored only four shorthanded markers all of last season. The shorthanded prowess is simply a by-product of increased team confidence.

4. Defense

The Blazers gave up the most goals in the Western Conference last season with 285 - 3rd most in the league ahead of only fellow non-playoff teams Regina and Lethbridge. Granted, the Blazer blueline is older this season, they still have to go out and prove themselves. Just because everyone is a year older, improvement doesn't just magically happen.

With six returning veterans in Austin Madaisky, Bronson Maschmeyer, Tyler Hansen, Josh Caron, Brady Gaudet and newly acquired Marek Hrbas, it'll be up to all of them to take the next step. Madaisky, Caron and Maschmeyer will have to specifically lead the back-end but it'll be strength in numbers if the Blazers want to be a winner.

Dave Hunchak has a proven track record of developing defenseman as a coach. We will see if he can continue the trend with the Blazers.

Mid-season: The team's defensive game has jumped by leaps and bounds this season. The added experience and confidence from the core defenseman has made the Blazer blueline as good as any in the WHL. I think both Tyler Hansen and Bronson Maschmeyer's games have seen the biggest improvement. Again, a confidence thing. Marek Hrbas and Tyler Bell have been excellent. Austin Madaisky shows at times he can be that hard, number one guy the team needs. Landon Cross when given the opportunity has excelled as well. Brady Gaudet will need to keep pushing to get into games.

I think the Blazers will look to add another defenseman at the deadline to compliment the group - especially after moving 20 year-old Josh Caron to Everett. They are missing that pure powerplay QB on the back-end. They're tough to find anyways. F Chase Schaber showed some promise when moved to the point on the PP before getting hurt in Regina during the eastern swing.

5. Fragile mindset

The Blazers lost a handful of games last season and gave up precious points because of late goals against in tie games. Too many times the Blazers gave up that heartbreaking last minute goal. It was a "playing not to lose" mentality and not an assertive attitude that was their demise. There's nothing worse than giving up that late goal. It adds doubt and can snowball in a hurry. The Blazers need to dictate the pace and flow in those situations and not sit back and react. It won't happen overnight, but every situation they overcome this season will build momentum in their favor.

Mid-season: This has been a work in progress since day one. The Blazers haven't really had an incident to shake their confidence this year. They've been good in close games, they've shown they can play with the lead and they've shown they can play from behind as well. A fragile mindset can snowball... it's the "here we go again" syndrome. Fortunately, it can snowball in the right direction as well. That is seemingly what's happening with this group through 35 games. The Blazers are playing to win, rather than playing "not to lose" like they did most of last season.

6. Goaltending

The Blazers need to get quality goaltending all season long. They likely haven't had a legit game-stealing all-star goaltender since Devan Dubnyk in the 05/06 season. With the departure of Jeff Bosch, the Blazers will host an audition for the number one spot. Cam Lanigan and Cole Cheveldave are expected to battle it out in camp with Taran Kozun and Troy Trombley trying to push into a back-up role. As the saying goes...you only go as far as your goaltending.

Mid-season: Hello Cole Cheveldave. He's nearly cemented himself as the number one 'tender. He's gotten the start in the last eight games and 15 of the last 16. Sounds like a #1 guy doesn't it? His numbers are good too. 16-4-1-1 with a 2.74 GAA and .907 save %. Last year's AJHL rookie of the year has certainly stepped up. The coaching staff loves his compete level.

Cam Lanigan has been good, but has struggled in his last two outings. He won his last start but has been shaky in a pair of relief performances coming into the game cold in the 2nd period. The Blazers will need Lanigan in the 2nd half if they want to hold onto their BC Division lead. He will be called upon again there's no question. He'll have more opportunities.

7. Getting everyone on board

Last season I think there were times when not everyone was on the same page. Perhaps some players were more or less motivated than others and the coaching staff said as much in our post-game shows. It's cliche but the Blazers will need everyone "pulling on the rope in the same direction" this season if they want to have the year they hope to have.

The leadership group has done an excellent job so far this season. This is a tight team. They are a "team". You could look at the guys who wear letters as a big reason but it's unsung guys like Ryan Hanes that are the glue of this team. The rookies are popular with the veterans and there's great camaraderie amongst the group. From my perspective, they're all on board for the common goal.

8. Better play within the BC Division

The Blazers lost every single head-to-head series in the BC division last season. A combined record of 10-19-1-2. Division games are always big ones...the Blazers gave up too many points to their division rivals leading to a last place finish in the BC division.

Mid-season: This perhaps has been the biggest turnaround year-over-year. The Blazers are 12-2-0-0 against BC Division teams mid-season. That's two more divisional wins than all of last year. In fact, the Blazers are 9-0 combined against Vancouver, Victoria and Kelowna. Only PG has handed them a loss within the division. The Blazers are 3-2 vs PG.

9. Being more resilient

The Blazers will have to show a bit more of it this season. Whether it's overcoming a bad call, bad goal or injury problems, this team will need to be able to handle adversity better. At times emotions get the best of this team and usually it had a negative effect. The Blazers will have to battle through it this season because adversity will come up several times over the course of a 72 game schedule.

Mid-season: The Blazers haven't had a ton of adversity this season. Perhaps the only adversity has been the eastern-swing and the back-to-back losses to Regina and Prince Albert where both Chase Schaber and Matt Needham went down...two of the top three centermen. What did the Blazers do? They responded with wins in Brandon (first since 1998) and Saskatoon. They then went on to dominate Moose Jaw before losing 4-3 in a shootout to close off the first half. So far, they've answered the bell...but more adversity is coming. It's simply inevitable.

10. Exorcising the playoff demons

The truth of the matter is this: No matter how good or bad of a regular season the Blazers have, their year will be judged on playoff success or lack thereof. The Blazers haven't won a playoff round since 1999 - the last time they went to the WHL Championship. Since then, they've amassed a 5-40 record in the playoffs with 10 straight series losses. It is the biggest issue dogging the Blazers and will be until this team gets through a round or two and takes a run at an Ed Chynoweth Cup.

See above.

The prognosis is good for the club moving forward. With a move or two expected at the deadline to strengthen the group, and the potential early March return of F Jordan DePape from shoulder surgery, the Blazers only stand to get better. They will have to be better too...because teams like Kelowna, Portland, Vancouver, Tri-City and Spokane only stand to improve as well.

Jon

Blazers Extend Contract of Guy Charron

2011-12-13T13:35:00.001-06:00

Blazer News Release:

The Kamloops Blazers announced Tuesday that the hockey club has extended the contract of Head Coach, Guy Charron through the 2012-13 hockey season.

Charron joined the Blazers as the team’s Head Coach on November 23, 2009. During that time, Charron has guided the Blazers to a 72-64-4-3 record. This season, under Charron’s guidance, the Blazers have compiled a 22-8-1-0 record which is good for first place in the B.C. Division and second overall in the WHL.

“Guy and his coaching staff have done a terrific job with the hockey club this season,” General Manager, Craig Bonner commented. “As a group, we have been well prepared for games this season. We have seen major strides in the development of our players and the team structure. Our current record is an indication of the tremendous job that Guy and the coaching staff have done thus far.”

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All the right stuff...

2011-12-05T01:47:00.001-06:00

Right now... the Blazers have it.

They're finding ways to win games when sometimes they're not the better team. It's six in a row now and the Blazers haven't played great in any of the six...yet good enough to win. With wins over Victoria (4-1), Seattle (8-2), Victoria (4-3), Victoria (6-5OT), PG (5-4), Victoria (4-2), the Blazers have ran their record to 20-7-1 and the 2nd best win percentage in the WHL at .732.

There's was a lot of talk this weekend the Blazers wouldn't have won the two weekend games last year. That team was finding ways to lose.

The Blazers wrap up the home schedule of the first half Wednesday against the Everett Silvertips. It's the return of former Blazers JT Barnett and Josh Caron, who were both dealt to the 'Tips for future draft picks.

Here's some news and notes from the weekend:

- I ran into Prince Albert GM Bruno Campese at the mall in Kamloops a few hours before the Blazers hosted Victoria Saturday night. He took in the game but did so under a low profile.

- What happened with Charles Inglis and the Cougars following the game at ISC Friday night? He was involved in an altercation with Chase Schaber at the end of the game. Did something carry over from that? Something transpired post-game which had the Cougars sending Inglis home to await a trade.

- The Blazers four wins this weekend should be enough to get them back into the CHL Top 10...take it for what it is though. With the completion of Sunday's games, the Blazers have a better winning percentage/record than six of the 10 teams named in the Top Ten last week.

- I thought it was a good weekend for two rookie defenseman who saw more ice-time because of the Josh Caron trade and an injury to Brady Gaudet.

- Gaudet may play Wednesday. If not he'll be ready for the start of the East division road swing beginning Saturday in Swift Current.

- F Ryan Hanes 4th goal of the season turned out to be the game-winner Saturday night against Victoria. Of all the guys out there, he's an easy one to root for. Linemate Chase Souto had scored in two games in a row prior to Saturday and was looking to keep it going...."two's a fluke, three is a streak," he said in our pre-game show. Any offense from the Blazers 4th line is a welcomed bonus.

- F Tim Bozon's goal celebrations have his teammates taking notice. Bozon admitted he has been egged on a little by the guys which led for his "calling out to the fans to throw the bears" Friday night after he scored the Teddy Bear toss goal vs the Cougars.

- Remember this blog post back in August on the Ten Things the Blazers must overcome to have a successful season? I'll be doing a follow-up near mid-season report card post in the coming days.

- The Blazers six game winning streak is the longest since the 06/07 season. That year they had two eight-game winning streaks near mid-season.

- Every team goes through adversity and a tough stretch during a season. My experience is that it's inevitable. The Blazers haven't really had any substantial problems are stretches of poor play. It's going to happen though. When it does, let's hope it's short and they bounce back strong.

Jon

Blazers, Cougars & Teddy Bears

2011-12-02T13:48:00.000-06:00

The Blazers return to home-ice tonight to host the Prince George Cougars in the annual Teddy Bear Toss Night at ISC... Here's some game notes and tidbits heading in.

- The Blazers will look to keep a four-game winning streak going while the Cougars are coming off back-to-back road wins through Seattle and Spokane.

- The Blazers are 10-2 vs BC division opponents. That equals the same amount of wins they picked up against the division in all of last year. The Blazers only two losses have been against Prince George. The season series is even at two wins apiece. Tonight is game five of the 10 they will play head-to-head this year.

- Cam Lanigan is set to get the start in goal. He hasn't started a game since November 12th against the Edmonton Oil Kings. Cole Cheveldave has started the last seven games.

- The Blazers will present captain Chase Schaber as the Radio NL Player of the Month for November. Schaber scored eight goals including two game-winners and added three assists. It was a very tight race between four or five players for the monthly honour.

- Tonight's game is also a Shaw TV broadcast.

- It's been a busy stretch for the Blazers after a pair of games in Victoria this week Tuesday and Wednesday. The team travelled home yesterday arriving back in Kamloops at 3pm. The team skated this morning in preparation for tonight's contest. They will host Victoria tomorrow night to wrap up a four-game week.

- The Blazers leave for Saskatchewan in just six days for their longest road trip of the season as they play all six Eastern division teams from Dec 10-17.

Jon

Blazers Deal Caron

2011-11-30T03:21:00.001-06:00

As reported earlier on our post-game show tonight following the Blazers 4-3 win in Victoria, the Blazers have dealt Josh Caron for a 4th round bantam pick in 2014.

Here's the news release:

BLAZERS SEND CARON TO SILVERTIPS

Kamloops, BC – The Kamloops Blazers announced Tuesday evening that they have sent 20-year-old defenseman Josh Caron to the Everett Silvertips in exchange for a 4th round draft pick.

Caron spent three and a half seasons with the Blazers and played 128 games. He racked up 375 penalty minutes in that time.
“With eight defensemen on the roster, we felt the need to give more ice time to our younger defensemen,” General Manager Craig Bonner said. “We’d also like to thank Josh for his time as a Blazer and wish him the best of luck.”

The Kamloops Blazers are back on home ice this weekend as they host the Prince George Cougars on Friday night and Victoria Royals on Saturday. Friday night is the annual Teddy Bear / Toque Toss. For tickets, call the Box Office

Blazers Host Ice

2011-11-23T13:00:00.000-06:00

It's the only meeting of the season between the Blazers and Kootenay Ice as they meet at Interior Savings Center. (6:30pm pre-game, 7pm face-off on Radio NL).

- The Ice come in as the defending Ed Chynoweth Cup Champions and so far have picked up where they left off...they lead the tough Central division with a record of 16-5-1-2. They've won all three games on this BC Division swing with stops in Victoria, Vancouver and Prince George. After tonight's game, they conclude the trip Friday night in Kelowna. Tonight's game will be their fourth in five nights.

- Ice G Nathan Lieuwen leads the Eastern Conference in both GAA (1.82) and save % (.936). He will most likely get the start. The Ice threw back-up 'tender Mackenzie Skapski between the pipes last night in Prince George in a 3-2 win.

- The Blazers open up a three-game homestand and enter tonight's contest picking up points in the last three games. They sit 2nd in the BC division at 14-6-1 - two points behind Vancouver but holding four games in-hand.

- Last year the Blazers won 8-5 in Cranbrook last season in their only meeting of the season. It was the final game of a February Central division trip where they Blazers picked up 9/10 points.

- Former Blazer captain Ajay Baines will join the broadcast in the 1st intermission. He's part of tonight's "Blazer Indo-Canadian Night"

- Blazers majority owner Tom Gaglardi will be our 2nd period guest. We spoke with Tom earlier this week following the completion of his purchase of the Dallas Stars.

- Blazer "Hockey Talk" is set for tomorrow evening on Radio NL. We'll be on the air from 5:30pm to 7pm and invite your questions by email at blazerhockeytalk@hotmail.com. Tweet me @JonKeenNLSports or call the show tomorrow 250-374-5345. Guests include Guy Charron, Dave Hunchak, Craig Bonner and D Bronson Maschmeyer.

Jon

Dallas Stars Introduce Tom Gaglardi as Owner Today

2011-11-21T19:03:00.001-06:00

Here's the link to the news conference today.

He chuckled off the top after catching himself calling the Stars the "Blazers" in his opening remarks. Also Commisioner Gary Bettman delivered a good line off the top too. Give it a watch.

Jon

Blazers prove they're for real / Weekend stories

2011-11-21T07:05:00.002-06:00

     The most common phrase heading into two road games in Spokane and Tri-City was "measuring stick weekend". After all, the Blazers were heading into Spokane (9-1 at home) and Tri-City - the top team in the Western Conference and 3rd ranked team in the Nation if you choose to put stock in the weekly CHL Top 10. It was built as an opportunity to see how much progress the team has made this season after a strong start.

     The Blazers hadn't won in Spokane since November 2008, and haven't escaped Tri-City with two points since December 2008. While the winless streak in Tri-City will continue following a 3-2 OT loss, the Blazers 2-1 win in Spokane at least gave the Blazers a chance for a perfect weekend south of the border heading into the contest against the Americans.

   Saturday night the Americans came out hard as expected and controlled the first period. A 5-on-3 PP goal from Adam Hughesman was followed 30 seconds later with a breakaway goal from Malte Stromwall after a gaffe from D Bronson Maschmeyer. The Blazers found their game in the 2nd period but didn't gain any ground on the Americans two-goal lead. A Chase Schaber PP goal early in the 3rd period brought the Blazers within one. A Matt Needham shot from the left side boards deflected in with just over six minutes to play to even the game 2-2.

    The Blazers had to kill a late penalty with 2:58 to play which sent the game to overtime. OT started 3-on-3 because of coincidental penalties to Maschmeyer and Mason Wilgosh at 19:57 of the 3rd. As expected, the teams never got back to 4-on-4 as Justin Feser scored on a rebound after an Americans 2-on-1 with Feser and Derek Ryckman.

Goaltender Cole Cheveldave was especially solid in both games this weekend. He made sure the Blazer deficit stayed at 2-0 vs Tri-City. He allowed his team the comeback bid, even if the Blazers did have to settle for the single point.

I caught up with F Dylan Willick after the two-game swing. For the most part he thinks they accomplished what they set out to do.

Willick1 by keen941

As for settling for three out of a possible four points?

Willick2 by keen941

The Blazers had Sunday off after arriving back in Kamloops just after 7am from Kennewick, WA. They now get set for three home games this weekend beginning with the defending Ed Chynoweth Cup Champion Kootenay Ice Wednesday night.

The Ice will be playing their fourth game of a BC swing. They've started with a pair of wins in Victoria (8-3) and Vancouver (4-1). The Ice play in Prince George Tuesday before visiting Kamloops the next night.

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Here's what else is on my mind today......

- Spokane Chiefs Head Coach Don Nachbaur had some colorful quotes following the Blazers 2-1 win in Spokane. Nachbaur told Dave Trimmer of the Spokesman-Review “Just so the fans know, I was booing them too. We had four fourth-lines tonight.”

“Too long of layoff is an excuse. We worked hard all week, come into the game and we don’t work. We stand around and watch. We did not skate. The bottom line with our hockey team is we’re not a hard-working team, we’re a lazy team. We played lazy.”

- Spokane is a good team even if they're missing offensive catalysts Tyler Johnson and Levko Koper from last season. Spokane will have a chance to win in their building every night though, and that's saying a lot with division rivals Portland and Tri-City in their division.

- Friday's win was especially sweet for G Cole Cheveldave. Cheveldave attended Chiefs training camp twice as a 15 and 16 year-old after they listed him following the 2008 bantam draft. In may not be as simple as saying they chose G Mac Engel over him, but that's the way it shakes out. Engel has proven to be a capable 'tender in this league as well. His coming out party was last year when starter James Reid got injured in the 2nd half. Engel used the opportunity to be named the WHL goaltender of the month back in February.

-While we're on the topic...has Cheveldave turned into the go-to guy for the Blazers between the pipes? Head Coach Guy Charron was asked that question Saturday night in our post-game show following back-to-back starts from the 18 year-old 'tender. Guy doesn't want to put labels on #1 or #2. He fully expects to use both goaltenders in crucial games heading into the Christmas break.

- WHL fight fans are gonna love this story from the weekend..... I talked to Blazer D Josh Caron following his heavyweight scrap with the Chiefs Darren Kramer. You can watch that scrap here - Caron vs Kramer

During warm-ups Caron and Kramer exchanged words by the bench. Kramer asked Caron if it was going to be round two with Chiefs D Cobin Baldwin tonight (following their epic center-ice tilt in Kamloops last month). Josh replied "nope, this time I want you." Kramer eventually agreed...but on his terms. Josh wanted it right off the hop...but Kramer wanted to pick his spot. I guess they met somewhere in the middle as they shed their gear in the 2nd period. Ironically, the fight wasn't included in the highlights package posted later on the Chiefs website. They did however show Steve Kuhn and Colin Smith's tilt. It turned out to be a one-sided affair in Kuhn's affair.

- WHL broadcasters are all homers, it's part of the job. It's a word that doesn't offend me in the least. The homerism gets turned up seven notches during a scrap.

- It's the tough guys in the league I respect the most. Imagine dropping your gloves and skating to center-ice in front of 5000 people. Theses guys put their pride and reputation on the line. Further to my chat with Caron...He also told me there's nothing like it. Nothing compares to the feeling he gets when he squares-off with someone at center-ice and he feels the energy in the building rise all around him. It's especially true in the U.S. markets where fans go bananas for that action.

- Blazer Head Coach Guy Charron found his way to the broadcast booth in Spokane after a little bit of an adventure. "I was in the freight elevator, and had to try and figure out how to operate that first," he explained on our post-game show."Then I jumped in another elevator to get me up here...and once you're up here...you still have a ways to go...it's a maze. Any visitor who's ventured up to the press-area at the Spokane Arena can attest to Guy's take.

I wrapped up our interview wishing him luck finding his way down...."thank-you I'll try, but if I don't make it please come look for me." Guy is an easy guy to root for.

- It was good to catch-up with Regina Pats broadcaster Dan Plaster Thursday night in downtown Spokane. The Pats travelled through the night departing Wednesday at midnight. They stopped in Cranbrook for a morning practice and then continued on from there. Dan is always up for some fun. Good guy. He's in his 2nd year with the Pats but we go back all the way to the late 90's when we were both in Lethbridge together. Dan has come a long ways in his short time in the WHL. It's scary to think how good he could get at calling games.

- A lot of things impressed me in Tri-City Saturday night. First and foremost the atmosphere was electric thanks to over 5400 packed into the Toyota Center. It was certainly the largest crowd I've seen in my seven or eight visits in my time. It's loud, and the fans are into it.

- Americans F Patrick Holland controlled the game each time he was on the ice. Often rushing the puck up ice and through two or three players. Poise is a word that best describes the 19 year-old.

- I was given a celebratory cupcake Saturday in honor of Craig West calling his 1000th game with the Americans earlier this month. I later tweeted "I just had a celebratory cupcake in honor of Craig West...it tasted dry and sarcastic". I told Westie later, he loved it. He used on his facebook status later in the evening and followed it up by saying "Kamloops is the most improved team I've seen so far".

- A reminder of our 2nd edition of Blazer Hockey Talk coming up Thursday night on Radio NL. We are still finalizing guests. We will hit the airwaves around 5:30pm. I should know our line-up in the next day or two. You can get a question or comment to us by emailing blazerhockeytalk@hotmail.com. Or send me a tweet @JonKeenNLSports.

- The Blazers just missed an earthquake by a few hours in Northern Washington and the South Okanagan on their way south. It was measured at 4.6. The Blazers passed through the epicenter of the quake about 12 hours before it happened.

- The Blazers practiced in Osoyoos Thursday morning. It was nice to break up the trip to Spokane by stopping in such a nice place. Thanks to KIJHL Osoyoos Coyotes owner Randy Bedard for the hospitality. Randy has a radio background and calls the road games too. They're trying to make a go of it in Osoyoos and it sounds like the 2nd year Junior "B" franchise is more than holding its own. This after a league championship in their first season.

Jon

GM Bonner on today's moves

2011-11-14T20:34:00.001-06:00

Blazer General Manager Craig Bonner spoke with Radio NL this afternoon on the moves...

On trading JT Barnett to the Everett Silvertips for a 3rd round pick in 2013:

Onbarnett by keen941

On acquiring F Brock Balson and getting him into the line-up:

Bonneronbalson by keen941

Brock Balson is expected to join the Blazers at practice tomorrow. The Blazers depart for Spokane Thursday morning for weekend games in Spokane Friday night and Tri-City Saturday.

Jon

Barnett Traded to Everett, Balson Recalled & Random Thoughts

2011-11-14T15:03:00.002-06:00

- The Blazers dealt 19 year-old F JT Barnett to the Everett Silvertips for a 3rd round bantam pick in 2013 today. The move gives the Blazers a bargaining chip for later this season and frees up a spot for someone else amongst the forward group to take an increased role.

From JT's perspective, it's an opportunity for him in a new place to get an important year kick-started. Barnett has scored four goals this season - three of them came in consecutive games on a Central division road swing. Barnett scored goals in Red Deer, Lethbridge and Medicine Hat on the swing. It appeared as if he was finding his groove.

It never materialized back on home ice though. The Blazers acquired Barnett from the Vancouver Giants for a 2nd round pick back in July of 2010.

- The Blazers also recalled F Brock Balson from the BCHL's Salmon Arm Silverbacks. He was recently listed by the Blazers after being dropped by Prince Albert. In two seasons with the Raiders he scored once and added two assists in 50 games. The Kamloops native had scored nine goals and added 11 assists in 20 games for the Silverbacks this season.
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- Despite only winning one of two weekend home games, I thought it was a great two nights at Interior Savings Center from an entertainment and atmosphere perspective. Fans are making some noise and have been energized by the team's play this year. Fans are having fun, making some noise and it continues to build. The Blazers won't play at home now until Wednesday the 23rd when they welcome the Kootenay Ice.

- Blazer F Colin Smith is off to Regina to take part in the Subway Super Series game vs the Russian Selects Wednesday night. Initially left off the team, Smith was added early last week. He'll rejoin the team for a pair of weekend games in Spokane and Tri-City this weekend.

- The Blazers are again featured in the latest WHL Plays of the Week. You can watch it here.

- The Blazers have received some good mileage from their 4th line recently. Ryan Hanes, Aspen Sterzer and Chase Souto "set the tone" Saturday night against Edmonton according to Head Coach Guy Charron. If you talk about the Blazers best player this past weekend, Hanes would be in the discussion.

- The Blazers will head south to Spokane Thursday to play the Chiefs Friday and then Tri-City Saturday. It was tough sledding in those two barns last season. The Blazers were 0/4 combined and outscored 32-9. 32 goals against in four games....that's eight goals allowed per game. That's a lot. It'll be a tough place this year too. Both the Chiefs and Americans are out to great starts. Spokane is 9-1 at home this year, Tri-City is 7-2 at the Toyota Center. In many ways these two games can be used to see how much progress the Blazers have made.

- I ran into Gregg Drinnan of the Daily News Friday night...literally. We collided in the media box as I was stepping into the hallway behind the radio booth. He definitely caught me on my blindside, I may have delivered a blow to the head. Suspensions are tbd.

- For the Swift Current Bronco folks who still check in here from time-to-time... you can bet this Sunday night in Vancouver is the place to be. Former Bronco teammates and friends Dale Weise and Zack Smith collide as the Canucks host the Ottawa Senators. Both represented by the same agent, they're trying to get as many as tickets as possible for this one for family and friends. Personally, this one might be worth the drive over the Coquihalla for.

- It's good to see former Bronco D Aaron Rome beginning to blossom with the Canucks. He had three points in last night's 4-1 victory over the New York Islanders at Rogers Arena He's on a roll lately. I've said it before...Rome was one of my favorite d-men over the years on and off the ice. The swagger meter was always at a 10.

Blazers Host Rebels on Remembrance Day

2011-11-11T11:24:00.001-06:00

The Blazers and Rebels play a matinee game this afternoon at Interior Savings Center as they meet for a 2nd time this season. In the first meeting just over three weeks ago, the Rebels scored two goals within a minute in the third period and G Patrik Bartosak made 30 saves as the Rebels picked up a 4-2 win in Red Deer.

If the Czech import Bartosak starts today, it's shaping up to be a good battle of rookie goaltenders who are emerging for their club. The Blazers will go with Cole Cheveldave between the pipes

Bartosak's numbers are impressive at 12-3 with a save % of .934 and a 2.04 GAA. Cheveldave's early numbers have been great too - 6-1 with a save % of .926 and a 2.27 GAA.

The Rebels don't have a lot of scoring. They are not an explosive team, rather a patient and well structured group. Bartosak and strong coaching is probably the two biggest aspects of their impressive 12-4-0-1 start.

They have also been strong on special teams. The Rebels penalty-kill is ranked 1st in the WHL at 86.3 % while their PP is 4th best at 24.6 %.

The Rebels are playing game two of a four-game BC division swing. They defeated Kelowna 6-4 Tuesday in the first game of the trip. They will play back-to-back nights in Victoria tomorrow and Sunday before heading back to Alberta.

The Blazers enter having lost two of their last three. They dropped a 3-1 decision in Prince George Saturday in their last game. JT Barnett practiced with Brendan Ranford and Chase Schaber this week at practice and I'd expect that trio to be reunited.

At 12-5, the Blazers lead the BC division but their lead has shrunk to just a single point over the Vancouver Giants who have come on recently. The Blazers do hold three games in-hand.

It's the 2nd time the Blazers have played the afternoon 2pm game this season. Back on Thanksgiving Day, they blew a 4-1 2nd period lead and lost to Medicine Hat 5-4.

We're on the air with our Radio NL pre-game show at 1:30pm, the play-by-play at 2pm.

Jon

Jordan DePape prepares for surgery

2011-10-31T12:42:00.000-06:00

Blazer F Jordan DePape will have shoulder surgery Thursday. He joined us over the weekend from his home in Winnipeg.

Jordan depape (newsbooth) by keen941

So long October...it's been a blast

2011-10-30T23:07:00.001-06:00

(photo by Tricia Mercuri)

- What a month for the hockey club and what a start to the season. The Blazers closed off the month with four wins in a row for a record of 10-2 and 11-3 overall. It's likely the best month for this hockey club in years.

- The Blazers start is the best start of any team in the BC Division since the 08/09 Vancouver Giants. They were 11-0-0-3 through 14 games and didn't lost a game in regulation until a 3-2 loss against Chilliwack 18 games into the regular season

- There was a lot of great individual performances but the biggest contribution was the "team" aspect. The month featured nine different players with game winning goals and a great 1-2 punch in goal with Cam Lanigan and Cole Cheveldave playing well off each-other as the two continue their competition for ice.

- Since Radio NL does award a "Player of the Month" (announced Wednesday night vs Portland) let's look at two finalists: Tyler Hansen, according to the WHL stats I use is leading the league with a +16 rating and contributed eight assists. He's been a bit of an unsung hero this month. Colin Smith led the Blazers with eight goals and 10 assists and a +8 rating. His line along with JC Lipon and Tim Bozon was probably the teams most consistent trio during the month.

- Dylan Willick has had the hottest stick in the last stretch with nine goals in his last 10 games. Brendan Ranford has also found his goal scoring touch. After missing the first three games of the season due to suspension, Ranford's lit it up for nine goals in 11 games.

- One phrase I'm trying to rid myself of when talking about the Blazers this season is "last year". Last year is well...last year. Although comparisons are easy and often very contrasting to show the turnaround of the club, the two teams really have nothing in common. It seems we the media will point out the good start but it's always side-noted with "but last year they (missed the playoffs, took too many penalties, gave up too many goals, etc." I think we've heard enough about it, haven't we?

- Rookie 16 year-old F Matt Needham is learning a lesson that things won't come easy. The Penticton native was set to perform in front of friends, family and a bundle of people from the Okanagan Hockey Academy Saturday night in Kelowna. There was one problem, Matt was a healthy scratch after what the coaching staff felt was a lacklustre effort against Kelowna the night before at ISC. A tough lesson I'm sure for the Blazer 1st round bantam pick.

- Kelowna's Prospera Place is always an electric place to watch a game. It's a great facility and the building is full no matter what. The Rockets have done a great job over the years of retaining their fan base.

- With a bouquet comes a beef. What's with the Rockets goal song this year? The Isley Brothers "You Make Me Wanna Shout"...I wasn't really feeling the song from 1959 the other night. I liked the old one... I think it was the hook from Def Leppard's "Rocket". Really though, whatever song they use I just hope I don't hear it very often with the Blazers four visits to Prospera Place this season.

- The Portland Winterhawks kick-off a busy month of November for the Blazers. They visit ISC Wednesday night. They just concluded a Central division swing going 2-3-0-1. They'll have a couple days off to gather their bearings before playing here Wednesday and then Kelowna for back-to-back nights Friday and Saturday. Nine games and two and a half weeks on the road for the Hawks....

- The Blazers play 12 games in November, six on the road, six at home. The month includes a weekend road-trip in Tri-City and Spokane who have been two dominant U.S. division teams to date. The Blazers will also head to the Island for a pair of games at the end of the month against the Victoria Royals.

Jon

Blazer Prospect Jordan Thomson

2011-10-26T13:15:00.000-06:00

Kamloops Blazers 1st overall pick (4th overall) in this summer's bantam draft spoke with Brandon Wheat Kings broadcaster Bruce Luebke following a practice in Souris, MB before the U-16 Challenge in Moose Jaw.

Thomson was chosen as the captain of Team Manitoba.
Jordan thomson - honoured by the c by keen941

Blazer Hockey Talk Thursday Night

2011-10-25T20:09:00.000-06:00

Our first live edition of "Blazer Hockey Talk" is set for Thursday night beginning at 5:30pm on Radio NL.

Join Rick "The Bear" Wile and myself for the 90 minute show with special guests Tom Gaglardi from the Blazer ownership group, General Manager Craig Bonner, Head Coach Guy Charron and Associate Coach Dave Hunchak.

You're invited to email your questions to blazerhockeytalk@hotmail.com or give us a call at 250-374-5345. The show runs from 5:30pm to 7pm. There should be plenty to talk about after the Blazers 9-3 start to the season.

Blazer Hockey Talk... Thursday night on Radio NL.

Blazers Marching Forward

2011-10-23T17:10:00.042-06:00

The club arrived back in Kamloops shortly after 8am this morning following the long trek through the Rockies. There was a small mechanical issue somewhere along the trail near Revelstoke but it was handled and the team rolled on home...

Here's a few thoughts after the Blazers won two of three this week in the Central division to remain atop the BC division with a record of 9-3.

- Last night's win in Medicine Hat was a statement win. JT Barnett's wrap-around goal off the rush three minutes into the third period stood up as the winner as the Blazers locked it down pretty good in the final 17 minutes. The Tigers had three PP chances to tie it up, but any scoring opportunity was nullified by G Cam Lanigan who finished the evening with 28 saves in the 2-1 win. The Blazers taking the battle of division leaders to conclude a three-game Central division swing.

- Through 12 games, the Blazers have shown depth in all positions. They have six players who have scored four goals or more (Smith, Ranford, Barnett, Willick, Schaber and Lipon). The Blazer defenders have done a good job at limiting scoring opportunities led by Tyler Hansen's +11 rating and the play of Austin Madaisky. Both goaltenders Cole Cheveldave and Cam Lanigan have taken turns showing the coaching staff why they should be the #1 guy.

- The Blazers are getting strong contributions from their rookie crop. Tim Bozon, Matt Needham and Cole Ully have contributed and played in key situations. Ully may have had a coming out party the past couple nights logging increased ice-time against Lethbridge and Medicine Hat. He scored his first and second ever WHL goals in Lethbridge Friday night. On defense, Tyler Bell and Landon Cross have played steady and have done pretty much all that's been asked. Let's remember the 4-0 Cole Cheveldave is still a rookie as well.

- From being around the team the last two seasons I can see this group as a tighter one than last year. Winning can bring teams closer but I think the groundwork for this team unity we're seeing was laid during training camp.

- It took the Blazers 18 games to record their ninth win last season. This year they've done it in 12 games. F JC Lipon's shorthanded goal last night was his 6th of the season doubling his total of last year when he played 65 games.

- Speaking of shorthanded goals, Lipon's goal was the Blazers league leading 5th shorty of the season. Last year the team only tallied four.

- There's no room for this team to get complacent. Other teams around the league will only improve. The Blazers will have to keep getting better to stay ahead of the curve.

- "I had no choice" was the words F Timmy Bozon said to me post-game after being involved in his first ever WHL fight. He held his own against Tiger D Dylan Busenius as they got tied up behind the play.

- Colin Smith took a hard hit last night from Tigers F Kale Kessey. There to instantly step up for a teammate was D Josh Caron as you can see here....Josh Caron vs Kale Kessey

- Blazer D Tyler Bell tells me he often suffers a case of mistaken identity. He tells me some of the opposition players this year think he's Myles Bell from the Kelowna Rockets - the former Regina Pat defenseman. Some of the broadcasters have made that mistake as well.

- Take it with a grain of salt... but the Blazers will likely crack the CHL Top 10 rankings when they're released in the next couple days. I've never put much stock in the rankings as I believe it's a bit of a flawed system..

- If you'd like to see some pics of the Blazers on the road this week then check out the Blazer blog here.

Jon

Alberta Bound

2011-10-18T07:14:00.001-06:00

The Blazers are pulling out of ISC this morning and headed to Alberta for a trio of games beginning Wednesday in Red Deer against the RNH-less Rebels. Here's a few thoughts and opinions heading into the swing....

- There's not too many things the Blazers want to carry over from last season but one thing they'd love is for their success in Alberta to continue. Last year the Blazers were 7-1-1 in wild rose country including a 1-0 win in Red Deer and a 4-3 OT loss. The only game the Blazers lost in the province in regulation was a 5-4 decision to Lethbridge. The Blazers led that game 4-1 in 3rd period as well until the 'Canes scored three times in a span of five minutes to tie it up and eventually win it.

- Here's a stat dug-up from Blazers Director of Communications Tim O'Donovan. In the seven Blazer wins this season...the Blazers have seven different players with game-winning goals.

-Apparently the media in Edmonton are on the Blazer bandwagon. Check out this link here for more on that.

- Reassigning G Taran Kozun was really the only conceivable option. Granted, he's the goalie of the future but for now G Cam Lanigan has appeared to come back this season re-focused and committed to the task. 18 year-old rookie Cole Cheveldave is showing why he was the top goaltender in the AJHL last season in his four starts in goal for the Blazers. Taran's time will come...if not later this season.

- You never asked but I'll tell you what's surprised me so far this year....there's actually a couple things.
1)The commitment of the guys to the "team" concept has been a lot stronger
2) Import F Tim Bozon He's come in and hasn't really missed a beat. He's only going to get better as the year goes on. Speed, size, vision and involvement in the play has all been excellent. You really never know what you're getting in the import draft. Most times you're going on the word of a player agent. Bozon can play. He will get drafted this summer if he keeps his game going.

- The most exciting line to watch has been the Bozon/Smith/Lipon line. They've created a lot of offense and have found some chemistry.

- The crowds at ISC have been down in the opening seven games home games...and to some extent I think it was expected with the hangover looming from last season. The folks that have been there this year have been thoroughly entertained and there's a lot of positive energy in the building as the guys leave the ice at the end of periods and games. It's been great to see and hear.

I'm confident word will spread...and the fans will come back to see what everyone's talking about. It won't happen overnight though. Being in Kamloops for over a year now I've sensed a cynical mood in the community when it comes to the team's past performances. Some if it has been fueled by media but for the most part lacklustre play and a failure to make a run (or win a game) in the playoffs for years now.

Here's what I propose: Don't listen to what you've been hearing or reading...grab some tickets and check it out for yourself and form your own opinion. The Blazers next home game will be a doozy. The Kelowna Rockets come back for a rematch October 28th

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- Is WHL Trade-ageddon over with for the time being? There's been a flurry of moves this week as teams look to fill some holes and clean out some dead weight. The Blazers haven't been involved to this point and seem to be happy with the early chemistry.

- We had Medicine Hat Tigers GM Brad McEwen join us for an intermission Sunday night. He says teams are out there sniffing around...there's deals to be had. Lethbridge is undergoing a fire sale and there will always be GM's looking to take advantage of some blow-out pricing. When team's panic, that's when rash decisions are made.

- The Vancouver Giants also shook things up in a two-for-two swap with Prince Albert. The Giants attempting to add some size and toughness with Austin Connor.

- We're on the air Wednesday night from the Red Deer Centrium with our Radio NL pre-game show at 5:30 and the pbp at 6pm. The team is looking forward to spending a few nights on the road and getting out of town for awhile. Let's hope they can grab some points along the way...

- For the latest info from the road check out twitter @JonKeenNLSports

Jon

Blazers Down to Pair of 'Tenders

2011-10-17T15:04:00.002-06:00

News Release:

The Kamloops Blazers have re-assigned 17-year-old goaltender Taran Kozun to the Nipawin Hawks of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League.

Kozun appeared in two games with the Blazers and had a 1-1-0-0 record with a 3.53 goals against average and an .857 save percentage.

“It is important for Taran to play more games at his age to further his development,” commented General Manager, Craig Bonner. “We think Taran has a bright future with the Kamloops Blazers and in the WHL.”

The Kamloops Blazers roster now sits at 23 players, including 13 forwards, 8 defensemen, and 2 goaltenders

Can the Blazers Close the Deal?

2011-10-16T12:06:00.001-06:00

That's the big question entering tonight's home game against the Kelowna Rockets.

The Blazers have a chance to complete the perfect weekend with three wins in three nights as they play division rival Kelowna for the first time this season. The Blazers have won six of their last seven games while the suddenly struggling Rockets have lost five in a row (0-4-1-0) after an overtime loss in Victoria last night.

Friday, the Blazers posted a 5-4 OT win in Portland thanks to Brendan Ranford's career four-goal game. Last night, goaltender Cole Cheveldave made 26 saves for the shutout in a 3-0 win over Prince George back at Interior Savings Center. A win tonight to close off the weekend would really set the Blazers up well as they attempt to gain some separation from the .500 pack that seems to be emerging within the division and conference. For the first time since October 20th, 2009, the Blazers are four games over .500.

It's sounding like the Blazers will break the goaltender rotation we've seen for the first three weeks and go back to Cole Cheveldave tonight. Cheveldave's numbers are impressive in his first three starts in the WHL. He's 3-0 with a 1.43 GAA and a .943 save %.

We will likely see both D Josh Caron and F Matt Needham back into the line-up after being scratches last night. F Chase Souto suffered a finger/hand injury in a scrap and left last night's game. He did return later after a few stitches. We'll see if he's back in the line-up for the game.

The Rockets on the other hand travel in from Victoria today. A tweet from Rockets broadcaster Regan Bartel talked about the long travel day they have ahead "6:40am wake-up call to catch the ferry back for a 6pm game in Kamloops tonight"

After a 3-0 start, the Rockets are going through a bit of a slide. They lost both games on the island this weekend to the Victoria Royals. Goals against seems to be their issue lately. Jordan Cooke played last night for the Rockets in goal. It could mean they throw 20 year-old Adam Brown against the Blazers tonight. Brown seemingly saves his best games for the Blazers. He was the best player on both teams in last year's season series. The Rockets won six of nine meetings. The Blazers were 3-5-0-1 head-to-head.

This is a crucial stretch for Kelowna. They are in the midst of nine straight games against BC division opponents.

It's a 6pm face-off. The Blazers will look to keep it rolling right along before heading out to Alberta for three games next week beginning in Red Deer Wednesday.

Radio NL is on the air with the pre-game show at 5:30, play-by-play at 6pm.

Jon

DePape to have surgery

2011-10-14T11:23:00.000-06:00

Tough blow for the Blazers and Jordan DePape. Perhaps the timing of this helps as hopefully he'll be back and recovered for a final playoff push and the post-season.....

Here's the release today:

The Kamloops Blazers will be without 19-year-old forward Jordan DePape for most of the 2011-12 WHL season. The Winnipeg native’s injury will require surgery. He is expected to miss the next four months and will be continually re-evaluated during the coming months.

DePape, who was acquired from the Brandon Wheat Kings in December 2009, had 21 goals and 48 points in 54 games last season. This season, he had 3 goals and 5 points in 6 games.

The Kamloops Blazers roster now sits at 24 players, including 13 forwards, 8 defensemen, and 3 goaltenders.

Blazers Add Blog

2011-10-12T16:59:00.000-06:00

The Blazer organization is now operating a blog... you can find it over on the right under my blog roll or you can click here to check it out.

Blades to Host 2013 Memorial Cup

2011-10-12T16:42:00.000-06:00

Maybe a bit of an upset today but full marks to the Saskatoon Blades bid presentation for closing the deal with the WHL's Board of Governors today. Red Deer was looked at as the front-runner going in but the Blades and Saskatoon's history of hosting major events won over.

Saskatoon will do a great job as hosts....looking forward to attending in late May 2013.

Blazers Host Tigers Today

2011-10-10T10:56:00.000-06:00

(photo courtesy Chris Mast)

- The Blazers take on the Medicine Hat Tigers for the first and only time this season. Last year they played twice with the road team winning on both occasions. The Blazers won a memorable contest vs the Tigers back in February as they rallied back from a 5-1 third period hole for a memorable 6-5 shootout win dubbed "The Medicine Hat Miracle".

- The Blazers chase their 5th win in a row while the Tigers come in playing game four of a five game BC division swing. They are 2-1 so far with a win and loss in Victoria and a shootout win in Vancouver Saturday night. They conclude the trip in Kelowna Wednesday night.

- The Tigers look a little different up front with the loss of WHL scoring champion Vinden Vey. Power forward Tyler Pitlick has graduated to the pro ranks and last year's captain Wacey Hamilton has graduated on. On the back-end they move on without Jace Coyle, Thomas Carr and import D Sebastian Owuya.

- The Tigers boast the WHL's leading goal scorer in Emerson Etem. His 11 goals lead the league. He's scored six on this trip alone. Hunter Shinkaruk is a good young player up front and Kellan Tochkin is a proven scorer although he's yet to find the back of the net this season.

- The Tigers captain this year is former Blazer Cole Grbvac. You can bet he'll be ready to play against his former club today.

- The Blazers seek their fifth win in a row as they get back on home ice following a 5-2 win in Everett Saturday night. So far this season the Blazers have outshot their opponent in 12/15 periods.

- If you're going by the Blazers current goalie rotation, it means 17 year-old Taran Kozun will start in goal for the Blazers tonight. He won in his first appearance in an 8-2 win over Victoria.

- Face-off at 2pm today at ISC. Happy Thanksgiving!

Jon

It's Early But....

2011-10-09T12:51:00.002-06:00

Here's a few random thoughts coming off the Blazers 4th straight win - something they didn't do all of last season: It's early but.....

- I really like the way this team is conducting themselves but on and off the ice. There's a noticeable "good vibe" around the team and it's a good atmosphere to be part of.

- Last night's 5-2 win in Everett kept the ball rolling. The team played well and deserved the two points. Every night it seemingly someone else leading the way. Dylan Willick and Matt Needham stepped up with a pair of big goals and D Austin Madaisky was a force on the back-end. G Cole Cheveldave wasn't overly busy, but made some great timely saves to keep the Silvertips at bay

- This team is more of a "team" this year. There's a great mix of young guys and veterans off the ice. Everyone is playing for each other for the greater good on the ice.

- I've also noticed the Blazers ability to not sweat the small stuff. In a way, they've created a bubble within the team, and they won't let negative influences enter the bubble. It's a calm, cool and confident approach from the coaching staff on down. From negative media to a little adversity on the ice, the Blazers have tuned out all things they don't have control over. Last year, adversity and negativity would fester amongst the group. This year, they barely know what's going on outside the dressing room walls. They don't focus on the opposition. For now, it's all about what they do and trying to keep the energy level up.

- The Blazers have a loud and boisterous off-ice warm-up before the game this year. Their "jump-around" echos throughout the building. Come to a game early and you'll likely hear their almost tribal ritual before taking to the ice. Last night's warm-up bellowed through Comcast Arena from underneath the stands. If you're the other team, it's hard not to take notice. I'd be lying if I said the volume level wasn't by design.

- The Blazers will look to run their winning streak to five tomorrow afternoon when they host the Medicine Hat Tigers at ISC for a special Thanksgiving Day Monday Matinee. Face-off is at 2pm. The Tigers are 2-1 on their BC division swing so far. F Emerson Etem is on a tear. He has a league leading 11 goals. That's four more than any other player in the race. He possesses great speed and loves to use it going wide on defenders. The Blazers will have to make sure they know when he's on the ice.

Other notes:

- The Blazers and Victoria Royals couldn't have timed things any better...or worse. The teams arrived at the Olive Garden in Bellingham at the exact same time yesterday for pre-game meals. In fact we met the Royals coaching staff just steps away from the restaurant door. Victoria played last night in Seattle. If you think of the timing of crossing the border, and not knowing how long that'll take, I don't think it's something that could be duplicated.

- Referee Trevor Hansen took a hard fall last night on the Comcast Arena ice and was slow in getting up. It happened behind the play at the end of the 2nd period. Apparently he got his back all twisted up. The fans blew the roof off the place. I got to know Trevor in Whitehorse last year. He's a good guy and has a good rapport with the players on the ice. He returned for the third period and was good to go. I'm thinking he might be feeling a little banged up today though.

- The fight Friday between heavyweights Josh Caron and Spokane's Corbin Baldwin is an early candidate for fight of the year. It was a marathon slug fest. At 6'5" an an 80's style mullet, Baldwin is an imposing and intimidating figure. It turns out his summer job back in Winnipeg is grave digging at a cemetery. Basically he's the "Undertaker" in the summer months. It only adds to his image. I think the Chiefs could sitting on a marketing gold mine here....

Jon

Blazers to Wear Doris Rubel Patch

2011-10-05T12:45:00.000-06:00

The Blazers will honor long-time billet coordinator Doris Rubel with this patch all season long.

You may also notice the warm-up pucks spelling out "DR" all season long at Interior Savings Center before each home game.

Jon

Blazers Have "Good" Problems

2011-10-03T13:54:00.000-06:00

Granted it was only a weekend's worth of games but the Blazers are smiling after a pair of dominating performances on home ice Friday and Sunday.

The Blazers won't play now until Friday night when they host the Spokane Chiefs and there's a couple of potential issues with the line-up on the horizon. With Brendan Ranford set to come back from a six-game suspension dating back to last season and F JT Barnett likely healthy enough to play, the Blazers will have to make some room.

So what do you?

It makes sense to put Ranford back on the top line with Chase Schaber and Jordan DePape to see if they can re-capture the chemistry they had last season which at times made them one of the best lines in all the WHL. I would think this is also the plan of the coaching staff.

What about JT Barnett? The early production from guys like JC Lipon, Colin Smith ,Tim Bozon & Logan McVeigh has bought them more ice-time. Dylan Willick has played well. He's generating chances but just doesn't have anything to show for it.

Ryan Hanes has played some of his best hockey in his last couple games while Matt Needham and Aspen Sterzer have been fine. Chase Souto popped a pair of goals Friday night as well. Plus 16 year-old Cole Ully needs games to develop.

The Blazers dressed 11 forwards and seven defenseman last night. Inserting Ranford and Barnett into the mix makes for a tough decision of who to sit.

And then there's the blueline.

There's eight defenseman on the roster...and they're all healthy right now. It means Landon Cross, Brady Gaudet and Tyler Bell are in an early rotation for game action. Not an ideal scenario but one that will have to work for now.

Don't forget goaltending.... the Blazers have started all three of their goaltenders in the first three games. Cam Lanigan lost on opening night 1-0 to PG and played well. He ran into the misfortune of a game-stealing performance from PG's Drew Owsley.

Cole Cheveldave played well in a 6-2 win Friday vs Vancouver.and Taran Kozun was steady in last night's 8-2 win. It's early, but I think Kozun can be a serviceable back-up goaltender at 17 and get into 15-20 games at least. So then a decision will have to be made between Lanigan and Cheveldave. Problem is, they aren't making it an easy decision. Perhaps the Blazers can ride out three goaltenders into late October to get a better feel before making the call. There's a few teams out there looking for some quality goaltending. I'm not sure the Blazer phone is ringing off the hook though for what are three unproven goaltenders.

Decisions...decisions...

Jon

Blazers Host Royals

2011-10-02T10:40:00.000-06:00

- The Blazers will look to build off a 6-2 home ice win Friday night over Vancouver as they host the suddenly streaking Victoria Royals. The Royals won both games in PG this weekend and have won three in a row. Last night the Royals held leads of 5-0 and 6-2 before holding on to a 6-5 win. The Royals will play their third game in as many nights

- The Royals may have lost defenseman Tyler Stahl after taking a hard elbow from the Cougars Charles Inglis last night in the third period period. Stahl had to be helped off the ice and didn't return. Inglis is likely facing a suspension as the Cougars take-off for their eastern road swing.

- No word on who will get the start for the Blazers in goal tonight. Cole Cheveldave is coming off his first career start in a 6-2 win Friday. Cam Lanigan played in the season opener. Taran Kozun dressed Friday to back-up Cheveldave.

- Brendan Ranford serves his 6th and final game of his suspension dating back to late last season. He'll make his season debut Friday vs Spokane.

- Blazer legend Mark Recchi joins our Radio NL broadcast tonight during the 2nd period for some color commentary. Also, Radio NL's Jeremy Bosch will join me in the booth tonight. The pre-game show begins at 5:30, play-by-play at 6pm.

- The Blazers have done well with special teams through two games. The PK is a perfect 10/10. The PP is 2/13 after an 0/7 night in the season opener.

Blazers Have Big Night Planned.

2011-09-30T01:00:00.001-06:00

News Release:

Mark Recchi, Vintage jerseys TRU Night all set:

The Kamloops Blazers will be hosting TRU Night when the Blazers host the Vancouver Giants tonight. The game entertainment will be geared to TRU students who are able to purchase tickets for only $10!

TRU students will be eligible for some great prizes throughout the game. Paul Filek will be playing a post-game concert in the Parkside Lounge which is included in the ticket. The ticket to the game also includes FREE cover into the Commodore Grand Café and Lounge, and Cactus Jacks Saloon Night Club.

The hockey club will also be unveiling their new vintage jersey on Friday night. The team will wear the jersey throughout the 2011-12 hockey season.

There will also be a ceremonial puck drop with Kamloops legend and Blazers co-owner Mark Recchi prior to the game. Recchi’s NHL career, which spanned 22-seasons, culminated this past June with his third Stanley Cup Championship with the Boston Bruins. A limited edition picture will be handed out at the front doors for the first 4000 people to enter the building.

The hockey club will also be honouring long-time volunteer and off-ice official, Fred Nicoloson, who passed away this past April. The Blazers will also have a moment of silence to honour long-time Billet Coordinator, Doris Rubel, who passed away yesterday.

Reaction to the passing of Doris Rubel

2011-09-29T13:05:00.000-06:00

Radio NL's Rick "the Bear" Wile gathering some reaction to the passing of longtime billet coordinator Doris Rubel today. She was 75.

Former General Manager Bob Brown

Bob brown by keen941

Former Head Coach Ken Hitchcok:

Hitchcock by keen941

From the Radio NL archives, here's Doris Rubel last year after her election into the Kamloops Sports Hall of Fame:

Doris by keen941

Sad News Today...

2011-09-29T12:51:00.000-06:00

BLAZERS LONG-TIME BILLET COORDINATOR PASSES AWAY

News Release:

The Kamloops Blazers announce with heavy hearts the passing of long-time billet coordinator, Doris Rubel. Doris passed away this morning with family by her side.

Doris was a billet in Kamloops for well over 40 years, making a significant impact on the lives of many young hockey players who have come through Kamloops. In Kamloops alone her service originates to the 1960’s in which she worked with the Craft Kings, Braves, Rockets, Chiefs, Jr. Oilers and the Blazers. She not only was busy caring for her own family, but coordinating the overall effort of finding a roof for every other player on every junior hockey team in Kamloops.

In 2004, Doris was awarded the first ever WHL Distinguished Service Award. The award is presented annually to recognize a person who has made an extraordinary contribution over extended period of time at the WHL level. Her contributions also are extended outside of the city of Kamloops. She has helped teams such as the Vancouver Giants, and the Chilliwack Bruins start their successful billet programs

Doris’ contribution to the Kamloops sports scene is immeasurable. The impact she has left on many young and aspiring hockey players is incredible. In 2005, Doris was selected as a Kamloops Blazers legend. In 2010, she was selected to the Kamloops Sports Hall of Fame for her long-time contributions to the Kamloops hockey scene.

“The passing of Doris is extremely difficult to hear,” says General Manager, Craig Bonner. “Doris has impacted myself personally, and the hundreds of young junior hockey players that have played in Kamloops. She was a remarkable person, and will be dearly missed by the organization and every junior hockey player who has been through Kamloops.”

Doris continued her role as the Kamloops Blazers Billet Coordinator up until her passing. The legacy and impact she has left will always be remembered. Funeral services have yet to be determined.

Concussions Under the WHL Microscope

2011-09-28T18:33:00.000-06:00

As promised earlier...I sat down with Blazers Trainer Colin "Toledo" Robinson regarding the WHL's Seven Point Plan to reduce head blows and concussions.

He's on a committee responsible for tracking concussions this season in order to compile data to better understand what they're dealing with, and then take the necessary steps in prevention.

I asked Colin about the committee that has been put together:

T1 by keen941

And it's a thorough collection of data...

T2 by keen941

As for what they plan on finding out? He hopes they can answer some questions.

T3 by keen941

I asked him about the new equipment the players are using such as soft cap shoulder and elbow pads.

T4 by keen941

Toledo explains it as a CHL wide effort:

T5 by keen941

He stresses they hope to get answers but concussions can be very hard to put your finger on and eliminate.

T6 by keen941

The Latest

2011-09-28T16:33:00.000-06:00

Blazer F Logan McVeigh is back practicing full-contact again will likely get into the line-up Friday night vs Vancouver giving the Blazers a full compliment of forwards. It also means Bronson Maschmeyer will go back to defense after taking a turn up front for the season opener.

Blazer captain Chase Schaber spoke about the week of practice leading up to the weekend after opening the season with a 1-0 loss on home ice to Prince George. He says they can't wait to get back at it.

Schaber by keen941

F JT Barnett was back on the ice after a slight knee injury. It's the first time skating since hurting the knee back with New Jersey during a pre-season game.

As promised, later tonight, more with Blazer trainer Colin "Toledo" Robinson on the Seven Point Plan unveiled by the WHL to help reduce head blows and concussions.

Coach Charron Ready to Begin Season

2011-09-23T17:40:00.000-06:00

The Blazers held their final practice before tomorrow night's season opener at ISC against the Prince George Cougars. Here's some notes:

-Colin Smith was skating on the wing of the top line alongside Chase Schaber and Jordan DePape. Smith is taking Brendan Ranford's spot with Ranford still to serve a three-game suspension.

- After having some success as a unit vs PG last weekend to conclude the pre-season, Matt Needham will center import Tim Bozon and JC Lipon. The three combined for nine points in their last game.

-20 year-old defenseman Bronson Maschmeyer will play up-front tomorrow night. More on that below.

- There was word F JT Barnett suffered an injury today with the New Jersey Devils. There's no word on the severity of it but Barnett's tweet today didn't sound very good. The Blazers confirmed he's being evaluated by the Devils training staff.

F Logan McVeigh is practicing with the team but likely won't play tomorrow night as he battles through a concussion.

I spoke with Guy following practice to get his thoughts...

Guy on being ready to drop the puck:

Guy-ready by keen941

On starting Cam Lanigan in goal to begin the season:

Guy-lanigan by keen941

On Bronson Maschmeyer playing forward:

Guy-maschupfront by keen941

On the importance of the season opener:

Guy-morethanagame by keen941

On being ready for the season as a coaching staff:

Guy-wrap by keen941

Update

2011-09-22T13:18:00.000-06:00

Just a quick update... nothing here hasn't been reported on twitter @JonKeenNLSports already...

- The Blazers are just awaiting the return of JT Barnett from New Jersey with the re-assignment of both D Austin Madaisky from Columbus and D Josh Caron from Minnesota. Barnett is expected back before Saturday's game against the Prince George Cougars.

- D Josh Caron suffered a wrist injury in Minnesota. No word yet whether he'll play in the season opener or not.

- Despite reports to the contrary, it appears F Chase Souto will be ready to go for the season opener. He's coming off a concussion.

- I had a good chat with Blazer trainer Colin "Toledo" Robinson the other day regarding the WHL's Seven Point Plan to reduce head blows and concussions. That will be featured in an upcoming blog.

- Cam Lanigan will start in goal Saturday night but admitted he hasn't done enough to solidify himself as the number one guy. "I don't think what I've done yet in may career has set myself up to be comfortable (as starter)I don't think I deserve it."

- Chase Schaber will again don the "C" this season. However the assistant captains remain up in the air. Head Coach Guy Charron says he's interviewed nine players for a potential leadership role.

- The Blazers will open up the season in their traditional road "blue" jerseys Saturday night.

- The five BC division broadcasters joined Dan Russell for CKNW's Sports Talk last night. Kelowna Rockets play-caller Regan Bartel picked the Blazers to win the BC division this season. The consensus amongst the group though was a 3rd-4th place in the division showing.

- I tweeted earlier about the Kelowna Rockets trade with Regina today featuring Myles Bell to the Rockets for Colton Jobke plus a 2nd & 5th round pick. Personally I think the Rockets paid a big price. I received a tweet in response from former Blazer and Pats defenseman Shayne Neigum which read "not really ( a big price) you have no idea how good Beller is"

If I've learned one thing it's to trust the opinion's of people who have played for or against a certain player.

Bell is expected to play for the Rockets in the opening weekend.

Jon

BC Division Preview

2011-09-21T16:33:00.000-06:00

Courtesy whl.ca

B.C. Division

Kamloops Blazers
General Manager: Craig Bonner
Head Coach: Guy Charron

2011 pre-season: 2-2-0-1, 5pts

2010-11 Record: 29-37-3-3, 64pts (5th in B.C. Div., 9th in Western Conf.) GF: 219 GA: 285

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 19.5% (T-11th); PK: 76.4% (20th)

2011 Playoffs: Did not qualify

2010-11 Top Scorers:
Brendan Ranford 68gp-33g-53a-86pts
Thomas Frazee 70gp-31g-41a-72pts
Colin Smith 72gp-21g-29a-50pts

Up Front: Philadelphia Flyers prospect Brendan Ranford heads up the Blazers attack after leading the team in scoring last season. The talented 19-year-old has the tools to be among the top scorers in the WHL again this season. Joining Ranford is 20-year-old Chase Schaber, who plays a solid defensive game and put up nearly a point per game last season. 18-year-old Colin Smith and 19-year-olds Dylan Willick and Jordan DePape will also play big roles in the Blazers’ offense this season. 17-year-old Swiss forward Tim Bozon showed good offensive ability during pre-season, and could be a valuable asset this season. Look for rookie Matt Needham to be a contributor as well after posting seven points in 13 games as a 15-year-old last year.

On The Blue Line: 20-year-old veteran Bronson Maschmeyer heads up a Blazers’ defense corps that will look to improve upon what was the 20th-ranked goals-against last season. Also back is 19-year-old Austin Madaisky, who should log big minutes for the team this year after recovering from a broken neck, suffered last season. The Blazers acquired 18-year-old Czech puck-mover Marek Hrbas from Edmonton to help their transition game and the power play. Sophomore Brady Gaudet will look for more responsibility after adjusting to the WHL as a 16-year-old last year. 20-year-old Josh Caron could return to the team as well, but could also play in the AHL.

Goaltending: 19-year-old Cam Lanigan looks to take over the starting job this season after coming to the Blazers in a trade with Edmonton last year. The Calgary, AB, product has 90 games of WHL experience under his belt and should provide a solid veteran presence in the Blazers’ net. Rookies Taran Kozun and Cole Cheveldave are battling for the back-up role.

Player to Watch: Matt Needham

Though he may be just 16 years old, Matt Needham has already proven he can play and be a contributor at the WHL level. The Blazers’ first-round Bantam Draft pick in 2010, Needham scored three goals and seven points in 13 games with the team last season. A smaller player, Needham boasts tremendous offensive skills and a feisty, competitive demeanor. The son of former Blazer standout Mike Needham, Matt is a player who always seems to step up when his team needs a goal. Watch for Needham to make an impact in his first full WHL campaign.

Kelowna Rockets
General Manager: Bruce Hamilton
Head Coach: Ryan Huska
2011 pre-season: 6-0-0-0, 12pts
2010-11 Record: 43-28-0-1, 87pts (1st in B.C. Div., 2nd in Western Conf.) GF: 240 GA: 201
2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 19.3 (T-11th); PK: 84.1% (3rd)
2011 Playoffs: Lost in six games to Portland in second round

2010-11 Top Scorers:
Shane McColgan 67gp-21g-45a-66pts
Geordie Wudrick 71gp-43g-16a-59pts
Tyson Barrie 54gp-11g-47a-58pts

Up Front: The Rockets return an arsenal of solid offensive options this season, led by 18-year-old New York Rangers prospect Shane McColgan. Though not the biggest player on the ice, McColgan doesn’t back down from a challenge, and competes as hard as any player in the League. Expect McColgan to be among the WHL’s top scorers at season’s end. Also back are veterans Cody Chikie and Brett Bulmer, who both should see an increase in their offensive output. Talented sophomores Colton Scissons and Zach Franko impressed with their offensive games last year. Both could see big jumps in their point totals on what should be a powerful offense in Kelowna this season.

On The Blue Line: The Rockets return five defensemen from last year’s squad that finished with the second-best goals-against in the Western Conference. Veterans Kevin Smith and Mitchell Chapman are back to provide the team with plenty of experience and a good blend of offense and defense. MacKenzie Johnston and Damon Severson will look for bigger responsibility this season while rookies Madison Bowey and Jesse Lees have shown great potential as 16-year-olds. Bowey is an offensive talent who could eventually help replace the departure of Tyson Barrie.

Goaltending: With 20-year-old Adam Brown and 18-year-old Jordon Cooke both returning, the Rockets own one of the best goaltending tandems in the WHL. Brown has already proved his worth as a starter in the WHL, having already accumulated 85 wins to go with a sparkling 2.57 GAA and a .911 save percentage over 148 career games. Cooke impressed with his play as a rookie last season, and will definitely push Brown for playing time this season.

Player to Watch: Colton Scissons

Acquired from Saskatoon during the 2009-10 season, Scissons made his WHL debut as a 17-year-old rookie last year, scoring 17 goals and 41 assists with a solid +15 rating. A competitive and well-rounded player, Scissons plays an excellent two-way game, making him a valued contributor at both ends of the ice. The North Vancouver, B.C., product should be able to increase his offensive output this year. He should also garner plenty of attention from NHL scouts as he readies for his NHL draft-eligible season.

Prince George Cougars
General Manager: Dallas Thompson
Head Coach: Dean Clark
2011 pre-season: 1-3-1-0, 3pts
2010-11 Record: 33-35-2-2, 70pts (4th in B.C. Div., 7th in Western Conf.) GF: 258 GA: 265
2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 18.4 (15th); PK: 82.7 (5th)
2011 Playoffs: Lost in four games to Kelowna in first round

2010-11 Top Scorers:
Brett Connolly 59gp-46g-27a-73pts
Taylor Stefishen 68gp-24g-43a-67pts
Sena Acolatse 67gp-15g-48a-63pts

Up Front: Brett Connolly heads up a Cougars offense that finished fourth in the Western Conference in goals last season. The 19-year-old from Prince George, B.C., scored an impressive 46 goals in just 59 games last season, and is a legitimate threat to hit the 50-goal mark this season. Connolly, however, could stick with the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning, which would greatly hamper the Cougars’ offence. 19-year-old Charles Inglis scored 32 goals last season for the Cougars, and will figure heavily into the Cougars’ attack this year. Also returning is 17-year-old Troy Bourke, who turned heads with 19 goals and 42 points to go with his team-leading +15 rating as a rookie last year. Alex Forsberg, the first overall pick from the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft, will make his full-time debut this season.

On The Blue Line: Though they lose high-scoring veteran Sena Acolatse from the mix, the Cougars still return a strong group of defenders for this season. Towering Slovakian Martin Marincin could return to head up the blue line in Prince George. The 19-year-old put up 14 goals and 56 points in 67 games for the Cougars last season. But, he could remain in the Edmonton Oilers’ system as well. Guaranteed back are veterans Jesse Forsberg, Daniel Gibb, Cody Carlson and sophomores Shane Pilling and Josh Smith. Now in his third WHL season, Forsberg should be able to step up and shoulder a heavier workload. Expect youngsters Linden Springer and Joseph Carvalho to push for roster spots as well.

Goaltending: The acquisition of Drew Owsley from the Tri-City Americans gives the Cougars a bona fide No. 1 netminder who can give them a chance to win every night. Owsley, a product of Lethbridge, AB, posted 76 wins, a 2.68 GAA and a .911 save percentage in 122 career games with the Ams, and has extensive playoff experience. The Cougars have several options for the back-up role, including Bantam Draft selections Brett Zarowny and Devon Fordyce. Tyler Santos is also in the mix for the back-up job.

Player to Watch: Troy Bourke

The Cougars’ second-round pick in the 2009 WHL Bantam Draft, Bourke emerged as one of the team’s better offensive players as a 16-year-old rookie last year. The Onoway, AB, native scored 19 goals and 42 points and led the team in plus/minus. He also starred for Team Pacific at the 2011 World Under-17 Challenge, helping the team to a Bronze medal. His offensive skills are already apparent, but it is Bourke’s two-way ability and hockey sense that will have plenty of scouts keeping a close eye on him in his NHL draft-eligible season.

Vancouver Giants
General Manager: Scott Bonner
Head Coach: Don Hay
2011 pre-season: 3-0-2-1, 9pts
2010-11 Record: 35-32-1-4, 75pts (2nd in B.C. Div., 5th in Western Conf.) GF: 236 GA: 251
2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 19.2% (13th); PK: 78.4% (16th)
2011 Playoffs: Lost in four games to Tri-City in first round

2010-11 Top Scorers:
Brendan Gallagher 66gp-44g-47a-91pts
Spencer Bennett 72gp-37-33a-70pts
Neil Manning 72gp-15g-36a-51pts

Up Front: 19-year-old Brendan Gallagher heads up a Giants attack looking to improve upon what was the WHL’s 14th ranked offense last season. The diminutive Gallagher, a Montreal Canadiens prospect, was among the WHL’s top scorers last year and could very well find himself near the top of the list again this season. Slovakian forward Marek Tvrdon should be able to provide plenty of offense after missing almost all of last season with an injury, while veteran James Henry will also be counted on to carry a heavy offensive load. Sophomores Dalton Sward, Teal Burns and Cain Franson have the skill to step into secondary scoring roles. Jordan Martinook will look to improve on the 11 goals and 28 points he produced as a rookie last season.

On The Blue Line: The Giants could return up to six regulars from last year’s defense corps. Veterans Neil Manning, Wes Vannhieuwenhuizen and David Musil head up the Giants’ blue line, and will all be looking to cut down the team’s goals-against after having allowed the most goals in a season since the 2003-04 campaign. Manning has racked up 141 points in 251 career games, and should continue to provide plenty of offense from the back end. Musil and Vannieuwenhuizen are imposing figures who will need to make life difficult on opposing forwards. 18-year-olds Zach Hodder and Luke Fenske are also back, but will be pushed by several of the talented, young defensemen in the Giants’ system.

Goaltending: 18-year-old Brendan Jensen is ready to assume the starting job with the Giants after backing up Mark Segal the past two seasons. Jensen has 36 games of WHL experience on his resume, and will be given the opportunity to show he can handle a heavy workload in net. 16-year-old Jackson Whistle, the Giants’ fourth-round pick in the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft, will take on the back-up role after turning in a string of solid performances during the pre-season.

Player to Watch: Marek Tvrdon

Giants’ fans got a small taste of what Marek Tvrdon can bring to the table when he appeared in 12 games in 2010-11, scoring six goals and 11 points. Unfortunately, a season-ending shoulder injury kept the 6’2”, 208-lb winger from making a real impact for the Giants. Yet, even though he was limited to just 12 games, the Detroit Red Wings thought highly enough of him to select him in the fourth round of the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. A big-bodied forward with great hands, puck skills and the ability to protect the puck in traffic, Tvrdon is a menace in front of the opposition net. The Nitra, Slovakia, product has a heavy shot and the ability to get shots off quickly in traffic. Expect Tvrdon to be a key performer for the Giants now that he is once again healthy.

Victoria Royals
General Manager / Head Coach: Marc Habscheid
2011 pre-season: 1-4-0-0, 2pts
2010-11 Record: 33-31-4-4, 74pts (3rd in B.C. Div., 6th in Western Conf.) GF: 227 GA: 255
2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 21.8% (T-6th); PK: 79.2% (13th)
2011 Playoffs: Lost in five games to Spokane in first round

2010-11 Top Scorers:
Ryan Howse 70gp-51g-32a-83pts
Roman Horak 64gp-26g-52a-78pts
Kevin Sundher 70gp-24g-52a-76pts

Up Front: The Royals lose three of their top five scorers from last year, including 51-goal man Ryan Howse. Replacing the offense created by Howse, Roman Horak and defenseman Brandon Manning won’t be easy. Fortunately, the Royals return 19-year-old Kevin Sundher and 20-year-old Robin Soudek to carry the offensive load. Both topped the 20-goal mark last year. 19-year-old Jamie Crooks will be expected to improve upon the 19 goals and 38 points he recorded last season and carry more responsibility this season. Sophomore Brandon Magee is coming off a terrific season as a 16-year-old last year. He and fellow 17-year-old Steven Hodges should be able to contribute more to the attack this season.

On The Blue Line: The Royals will see six WHL-experienced rearguards return this season. 20-year-old Hayden Rintoul was acquired in the off-season from the defending WHL champion Kootenay Ice. Rintoul is a strong two-way presence who can help generate offense from the back end and bolster the power play. 18-year-old Jesse Pauls has some offensive flair to his game, having generated 19 points in 34 games over the last two seasons. Veterans Tyler Stahl and Zach Habscheid add plenty of size and physical presence to the Royals’ defense corps. Rookies Kade Pilton and Keegan Kanzig will look to earn spots in the lineup this year as both have promising futures with the Club.

Goaltending: With the graduation of Lucas Gore, the job of No. 1 netminder in Victoria is open. 20-year-old Braden Gamble served as Gore’s back-up for the last two seasons, and is an option for taking on the top job this season. The Royals acquired 19-year-old Keith Hamilton from Portland to vie for the starting job as well. Hamilton posted 17 wins and a .914 save percentage in 28 games for Portland last season. 17-year-old Jared Rathjen is also in the mix for a spot in the goaltending tandem.

Player to Watch: Brandon Magee

The Royals’ fourth-round pick in the 2009 WHL Bantam Draft, Magee turned in a valiant effort as a 16-year-old rookie last year, scoring 12 goals and 29 points with a team-leading +15 rating in 65 games. A hard-working, competitive forward who knows how to get under the skin of opponents, Magee also has the ability to score and create offense. Though not a very big player, Magee plays hard and doesn’t shy away from the tough areas on the ice. Taking on a bigger role this season, expect Magee to continue to impress with his no-quit attitude.

Monday Update

2011-09-19T12:31:00.002-06:00

Several Blazers have been returned from NHL camps...

Both Colin Smith and Chase Schaber are headed back from Edmonton after impressing the Oiler brass with their camp invite.

Brendan Ranford will be returning from Philadelphia today. Jordan DePape is back from Winnipeg Jets camp after his invite.

The team also expects to have JT Barnett back from New Jersey and Austin Madaisky from Columbus before Saturday's season opener.

That leaves Josh Caron as the only question mark at this point. The signed 20 year-old suffered a wrist injury during Minnesota Wild camp. Hopefully I'll get an update on his status shortly.

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I think the biggest question heading into the first game of the season is who gets the start in goal opening night?

Indications are pointing towards Cam Lanigan as the opening night starter. He's played well in pre-season and hasn't given a reason why he shouldn't get the ball to open up the campaign.

He's come in with the right attitude and has done everything asked of him.

Cole Cheveldave and to some extent Taran Kozun will be waiting in the wings looking for an opportunity at some point.

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Not sure on the injury status of three forwards heading into the weekend. It's safe to say Ryan Hanes (charley horse), Logan McVeigh (concussion) and Chase Souto (concussion) are all day-to-day with a full week of practice leading up to the first game of the season.

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The Blazers hosted their season ticket pick-up yesterday at ISC. Several players and Head Coach Guy Charron were on hand to talk with season ticket holders on the concourse.

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The Blazers will be featured on Shaw TV four times this season. Three home broadcasts and once on the road. The first Shaw game involving the Blazers will be October 7th at ISC vs the Spokane Chiefs.

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We're on the air live Saturday afternoon on Radio NL from ISC at about 5:20pm with our special season kick-off show. Rick "The Bear" Wile will anchor coverage leading into our 6:30pm pre-game show.

We are still finalizing some of our guests leading up to face-off Saturday night.

Face-off shortly after 7pm following pre-game introductions.

There will be a one-minute moment of silence before face-off to honour former WHL'ers Derek Boogaard, Rick Rypien, Wade Belak and Brad MacCrimmon - all of which passed this off-season.

Jon

It's Coming....

2011-09-18T11:34:00.002-06:00

The countdown is on to Saturday night at Interior Savings Center...

091511 Kamloops Blazers Home Opener Image by keen941

Gaglardi & The Stars / Blazers in PG

2011-09-15T22:25:00.007-06:00

- Blazer majority owner Tom Gaglardi is now 60-75 days away from completing the purchase of the Dallas Stars following a court approved bankruptcy auction. You can read about it here.

Radio NL news reached Tom earlier today..."no comment at this time," was the familiar response as he waits for the developments to unfold through the court proceeding.

- The Blazers can almost take a big van to Prince George rather than their team bus as they conclude the pre-season. The Blazers will dress eight forwards - two of them being regular defensemen Bronson Maschmeyer and Brady Gaudet. Seven players remain away at NHL camps (Schaber, Smith, Ranford, DePape, Caron, Madaisky & Barnett). Logan McVeigh, Chase Souto & Ryan Hanes remain out with injury.

The Blazers will start Taran Kozun in goal. Cole Cheveldave will back-up.

- The Blazers will host their season ticket pickup Sunday from 12-2pm on the concourse of ISC.

- Blazer trainer Colin Robinson is helping out with the new "Seven Point Plan" to reduce concussions and head blows. He along with Saskatoon Blades Athletic Therapist Steve "Hilti" Hildebrand are spearheading a system to track concussions across the league this season. Every concussion will be logged online and include all the who,what,when,where, how information. It should be interesting to see what kind of data they come up with.

Is there a rink in the league that is concussion prone? Are their certain teams more susceptible to them? Are the referee's penalizing the plays leading to them?

It's believed the majority of concussions are the result of a blindside hit... a hit where a player is defenseless. I would tend to agree with that.

There's also a thought that 2% of concussions come as the result of fighting. Will data collected this season back that up or not?

Jon

Chase Schaber & Colin Smith Interviews From Penticton

2011-09-14T13:04:00.002-06:00

Thanks to CJOB's Kelly Moore who is covering the Winnipeg Jets' angles from the Young Stars Tournament in Penticton. He spoke to Blazer forwards Chase Schaber and Colin Smith last night following Edmonton's 2-0 win over Winnipeg.

Schaber scored the game's first and laid a huge hit on Jets 1st round pick Mark Scheifele.

Schaber by keen941

Colin Smith will play again tonight against Calgary...

Colin smith by keen941

Blazers Cancel Pre-Season Game with PG

2011-09-13T12:44:00.003-06:00

Bones by keen941

The Kamloops Blazers have cancelled their pre-season match-up with the Prince George Cougars tomorrow night due to a lack of players available. By my count, the team is down to seven forwards before call-ups.

With six forwards at NHL camps and injuries to Ryan Hanes & Logan McVeigh the Blazers decided to cancel the contest set for Interior Savings Center...

GM Craig Bonner spoke about the move today from Calgary:

Blazers Sign Rehill / Recall D Thomson

2011-09-13T11:17:00.000-06:00

News Release:

The Kamloops Blazers have signed 16-year-old defenseman Ryan Rehill to a WHL education contract. The team has also recalled 15-year-old defenseman Jordan Thomson and Rehill for the final two exhibition games versus the Prince George Cougars.

“We are pleased that Ryan has signed on with us,” commented Director of Player Personnel, Matt Recchi. “He is a big, physical defenseman that had a real strong training camp. We look forward to monitoring his development this season.”

Rehill, who stands at 6’2” and 208lbs, was originally the Blazers 6th round draft pick in the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft. Thomson was selected by the Blazers in the 1st round, 4th overall in the 2011 WHL Bantam Draft. In one exhibition game, Thomson recorded an assist in a 4-2 Blazers victory.

The Blazers will continue to be without Josh Caron, Austin Madaisky, Dylan Willick, Jordan DePape, Chase Schaber, Colin Smith, Brendan Ranford and JT Barnett through the weekend. All eight players are away at NHL training camps.

The Kamloops Blazers roster now sits at 29 players, including 15 forwards, 11 defensemen, and 3 goaltenders.

Monday Update / Blazers Seek Anthem Singers

2011-09-12T12:12:00.002-06:00

- It's Blazers vs Blazers today in Traverse City, Michigan as the prospects tournament continues. F Dylan Willick and D Josh Caron will suit up for Minnesota against D Austin Madaisky and the Columbus Blue Jackets.

- F Jordan DePape will play for the Winnipeg Jets prospects tonight at the Young Stars tournament in Penticton against the San Jose Sharks. DePape and the Jets then play the Edmonton Oiler prospects tomorrow. Colin Smith had two assists for Edmonton in their 7-2 win over Vancouver. Chase Schaber did not play for Edmonton in the game.

- The Blazers may be looking for a few extra bodies for Wednesday's game at home against the Prince George Cougars. With eight players at NHL camps, and a couple injuries, there's word the team will be recalling a couple players for the game and perhaps the return match-up in Prince George as well. The team is expected to make an announcement tomorrow.

- The Blazers will be holding open auditions for anthem singers on tomorrow night starting at 7pm at the Interior Savings Centre penalty box area. All ages are welcome to attend. For more information please call Ashley at the Kamloops Blazers office at 250-828-1144 or aneuls@blazerhockey.com.

Jon

Sunday Update / Traverse City Update

2011-09-11T11:47:00.004-06:00

- The Blazers were down to seven forwards for half the game in Kelowna last night for multiple reasons in a 5-4 shootout loss. Heading into the game with just three lines, Ryan Hanes left the game and didn't return after suffering a leg injury on a hit from Mitchell Chapman. Chase Souto was given a game misconduct after a fight with the Rockets Tyrell Goulbourne. Brendan Ranford, Jordan DePape, Chase Schaber, Dylan Willick and Colin Smith are all off to NHL camps/tournaments and Logan Mcveigh remains sidelined with injury.

- You factor all of it in and you wonder what kind of line-up the Blazers will have Wednesday when they host the Prince George Cougars. They will also losr JT Barnett who is off to New Jersey Devil camp. You hope the Blazers would be healthy and energized to start the season but right now that's looking doubtful.

- There is no doubt WHL Education contracts are a factor when you have players play in the pre-season. Just one exhibition game can make a player ineligible for NCAA scholarships and just one game also means the WHL club team is responsible for a year of post-secondary education for that player. It can really tie the hands of WHL teams in the pre-season when they look to ice a roster for pre-season action.

- The game itself was entertaining. The Blazers trailed 3-1 in the 2nd period before three straight goals from Tyler Hansen, JC Lipon, and Matt Needham. The Blazer 4-3 lead lasted only 15 seconds as Colton Heffley tied it up just 15 seconds later in the third period.

- The Rockets first two shooters Tyson Baille and Filip Vasko scored in the shootout while both the Blazers Tim Bozon and Matt Needham were denied giving the Rockets a 5-4 shootout win.

- Cam Lanigan was strong in goal for the Blazers who were outshot 42-30 in the contest.

----------

- Both F Dylan Willick and D Josh Caron didn't factor into a Minnesota Wild 6-3 opening loss to Buffalo at the Traverse City Prospects Tournament. Former Blazer Corey Fienhage had an assist for Buffalo in the win.

- Austin Madaisky didn't play in the Columbus Blue Jackets first game at the tournament vs Detroit. Columbus won 7-3.

- Colin Smith and Chase Schaber will see their first NHL action tonight when the Oiler rookies take on the Vancouver Canuck rookies in Penticton at the Young Stars Tournament.

The Latest

2011-09-08T11:53:00.003-06:00

- The Blazers had two more players depart for NHL camps today as Chase Schaber and Colin Smith - both bound for Edmonton. They undergo fitness testing with the team tomorrow and will eventually head down to Penticton with the Oilers prospects to play in the Young Stars tournament.

Five of the eight Blazers headed to camps have now left (Dylan Willick, Josh Caron - Minnesota, Austin Madaisky - Columbus). Jordan DePape leaves tomorrow for Winnipeg. Brendan Ranford leaves for Philadelphia Saturday and JT Barnett takes off for New Jersey Monday.

- Blazer 16 year-old Matt Needham will see his first pre-season game action tomorrow night when the Blazers host the Kelowna Rockets to kick-off the exhibition home-and-home series. Needham missed all of training camp with an elbow injury but was back in full-practice this week.

- The Kelowna Rockets will join the Blazers in being short staffed this weekend. They also have eight players headed for NHL camps. D Mitchell Chapman will also miss tomorrow's game due to a one-game suspension picked up for a fight vs Victoria's Curt Gogol last weekend.

I believe both teams have agreed to a level playing field and will be dressing the same amount of players for the weekend set.

- At first I wasn't sure how the coaching dynamic with Head Coach Guy Charron and Associate Coach Dave Hunchak would work but I'm liking what I'm seeing and hearing so far.

Guy has allowed Dave to come in and share ideas, thoughts and a game plan to which Guy has whole-heartily endorsed. There's no ego getting in the way here. Guy understands the knowledge and experience Hunchak brings to the table with his time in the league. He's allowing an equal voice between the two and it can only stand to benefit the Blazers. It's like having two head coaches on the bench this season. So far, so good.

- Kamloops was not immune to the news of yesterday's plane crash in Russia as the names of those dead began emerging.

As tweeted about yesterday, Guy Charron coached Karel Ruchunek in Grand Rapids of the IHL back in the 1999-2000 season. When I was passing on some of the names to Guy over the phone yesterday you could hear the surprise in his voice when I got to his name. As said time and time again, the hockey world is very small.

- Two names grabbed my attention - Danill Sobchenko and Yuri Urychev. I remember the Russian roster from Radio NL's broadcast of the Subway Super Series last November between Team Russia and Team WHL at Interior Savings Center. Those two were key parts of the Russian team. Sobchenko scored in the game, and then went on to score in the shootout in a 7-6 Russian come-from-behind victory.

- Of course the death of Brad McCrimmon was the big story. I was introduced to Brad at the NHL draft in Ottawa by Dean Chynoweth several years ago. The Chynoweth family and the McCrimmons go back many years. It's a devastating loss to the WHL community.

Brad's brother Kelly McCrimmon (GM/Owner of the Brandon Wheat Kings) talked about his brother's death here.

Blazers Cut Roster to 27

2011-09-05T15:19:00.001-06:00

The Kamloops Blazers reassigned 17-year-old forward Dallas Calvin to the Trail Smoke Eaters of the BCHL. Calvin was pointless in two WHL preseason games this past weekend.

The Kamloops Blazers roster now sits at 27 players, including 15 forwards, 9 defensemen, and 3 goaltenders.

The Blazers re-assigned 15 year-old D Jordan Thomson earlier this weekend.

-------

Blazers Lose 6-3 in Ladner to the Giants

2011-09-03T23:14:00.002-06:00

I wasn't in Ladner tonight but the Giants went 5/11 on the powerplay in a 6-3 win in a game hosted out of their practice facility.

The Blazers trailed 2-1 and 3-2 after the 1st and 2nd period.

Austin Madaisky had a PP and a SH goal. Chase Souto scored on the PP in the third.

Goaltenders Cole Cheveldave and Taran Kozun split the game in goal. Both gave up three goals apiece.

The online scoresheet is here.

I'd expect a write-up online at www.blazerhockey.com

Jon

Blazers Double Royals 4-2

2011-09-02T23:31:00.002-06:00

Not a bad game tonight at the Sportcenter... The Blazers drew 11 powerplay opportunities and stayed fairly discipline in the process taking just five penalties.

The Blazers used the PP to score three goals - including two back-to-back 65 seconds apart in the first period to take the lead.

A few players that caught my eye on the Blazers included D Josh Connolly, D Marek Hrbas, and F Tim Bozon. Captain Chase Schaber was physical and scored the Blazers only even strength goal on the night.

The Royals have some good young talent coming up. I was impressed with some of their new younger faces.

All-in-all the game had good pace. The Sportscenter is a pretty good pre-season venue with the building nearly full..

Here's the write-up from the Blazers website http://www.blazerhockey.com :

The Kamloops Blazers kicked off the preseason with a 4-2 win at the McArthur Island Sports Centre over the Victoria Royals Friday night. It was a game dominated by special teams as the Blazers opened the scoring on a 5-on-3 powerplay with JT Barnett ripping a shot past goaltender Jared Rathjen for a 1-0 lead. A minute and five seconds later, the Blazers made it 2-0 on the powerplay, as Colin Smith snuck a shot through Rathjen and 15-year-old Jordan Thomson picked up an assist on the goal.

The Blazers took a 2-0 into the second period, but the Royals cut into the lead only 37 seconds into the period. Robin Soudek snapped a shot over Cam Lanigan’s shoulder, and the Royals made it 2-1. Halfway through the frame both teams switched goaltenders with the Blazers putting in Cole Cheveldave and the Royals turning to Braden Gamble.

In the third period, Chase Schaber scored an even strength marker at 11:29 and it looked like the Blazers were destined to victory. The Royals fought back though as Kade Pilton blasted a shot past Cheveldave on the powerplay cutting the score to 3-2. Chase Souto sealed the game with a powerplay goal just over a minute later and the Blazers went on to win 4-2.

Cam Lanigan stopped 16 shots while Cole Cheveldave turned 11 shots aside in the victory. There were tons of powerplays in this affair as the Blazers finished 3-for-11 and the Royals were 1-for-5.

The Blazers next preseason action goes tomorrow night as they visit the Vancouver Giants in Ladner.

Blazers Vs Royals

2011-09-01T23:56:00.002-06:00

- Expect a mix of rookies and veterans as the Blazers get ready to open up the pre-season schedule at home against the Victoria Royals (7pm, Sports Center - Mac Island)

- The teams had a bitter rivalry at times last season when the Royals were the Chilliwack Bruins. Both coaches used Radio NL airwaves to express their opinions of one another. Don't expect any of that to carry over...at least not tonight anyways. These game, as always are more about evaluation than they are about wins and losses. Make no mistake though, wins can build confidence - even if it is the pre-season.

- The Blazers have 26 of their 29 bodies available for tonight's game. Jordan DePape, JC Lipon, and Matt Needham will skip the game due to injury. Needham was back on the practice ice yesterday after missing all of training camp with an elbow injury related to an off-ice ATV accident. He's been working out off-ice and I don't expect missing camp will set him back all that much.

- I'd expect 15 year-old first-rounder Jordan Thomson to make his Blazer debut. The Wawanesa, MB native has been in Kamloops now for awhile. He was skating with the veterans even before rookie camp began a week ago.

- Not sure what the goaltending plan will be. The Blazers will dress two of the three goaltenders remaining on their roster. No word if they plan to give a goaltender a full-game or split it midway.

- The Blazers have eight players off to NHL camps next week. Colin Smith - EDM, Chase Schaber - EDM, Dylan Willick - MIN, Josh Caron - MIN, Brendan Ranford - PHI, Austin Madaisky - CBJ, Jordan DePape - WPG, JT Barnett - NJ. Some of the players will begin leaving September 8th.

- I'd like to see the Blazers turn the intensity up a notch in what is the first opportunity to play against someone other than themselves since last season. After what was a virtual no-hitter of a Blue-White game, I hope to see the pace pick up.

- This is our first look at what will be a very different looking team than last year's edition in Chilliwack. No more Lucas Gore in goal. The Kamloops native played out his eligibility last season after a strong final year as an over-ager. Gone are defensemen Brandon Manning (graduation) and Mitch Topping (traded to Tri-City). Up front, the Royals lose the dynamic duo of Ryan Howse and Roman Horak. They also dealt Dylan McKinley to the Kootenay Ice for defenseman over-age defenseman Hayden Rintoul. Expect them to be lead offensively by the smooth skating Kevin Sundher and the potential return of 20 year-old/import Robin Soudek.

- The Royals also have a new broadcaster. Marlon Martens comes back into the league from Lethbridge after being out of WHL broadcasting for a couple seasons. Randy Merkley didn't make the trip to the island with the team and is re-locating with his wife to Calgary.

- I'd also expect an excited Joey Hicketts to make his WHL debut for the Royals. The Kamloops native and former Jardine Blazer was the Royals first pick in this summer's bantam draft - 12th overall. I remember talking to Royals Director of Scouting Garry Pochipinski minutes after they selected Hicketts in the first round. He told me Hicketts was #1 on their list and were thrilled to see him still available at #12. Hicketts officially signed his WHL Player Agreement yesterday.

- There is no broadcast on Radio NL for this game. Our first broadcast will be the season opener - September 24th vs the Prince George Cougars. Rick "The Bear" Wile will serve as my primary color commentator once again while Radio NL's Jeremy Bosch will handle some games and will be doing end-of-period interviews from ice level with members of the Blazers and the opposition coaching staff.

Blazers Sign Oakes and Bell

2011-08-31T10:45:00.000-06:00

The Kamloops Blazers have signed 16-year-old forward Devin Oakes and 17-year-old defenseman Tyler Bell to WHL education contracts following the conclusion of training camp.

Oakes, from Prince Rupert, BC played last season for the Pursuit of Excellence Midget AAA Prep team. The 6’1” 200lb forward finished last season with 24 points in 38 games. Bell, from Regina, SK, has played the past two seasons for the Regina Pat Canadians Midget AAA team. Last season, the 6’2” 195lb defenseman had 5 goals, 16 assists and 21 points in 41 games.

“We would like to welcome Devin and Tyler to the Kamloops Blazers organization,” said Director of Player Personnel, Matt Recchi. “Devin is a big body up front that is a physical presence and performed very well in training camp. We are looking forward to watching his progression through the exhibition season. Tyler adds size and depth to our defensive core. He is a welcomed addition to our hockey club.”

The Blazers first exhibition action is this Friday, September 2nd when they host the Victoria Royals at the McArthur Island Sports Centre. Game time is 7pm and advanced tickets can be purchased at the Kamloops Blazers Box Office. Tickets are only $10.

Blazers Trim Roster to 29

2011-08-30T23:15:00.002-06:00

The Kamloops Blazers reassigned 17 players to get the roster down to 29 players (16 forwards, 10 defenseman, 3 goaltenders) following the Blue vs. White intra-squad game.

Eric Krienke, Tre Potskin, Brayden Gelsinger, Evan Tordiff, Braden Krogfoss, Kyler Nachtigall, Mitch Friesen, Matt McLeod, MacKenzie Ferner and Scott Lapp are all off to play Midget AAA hockey for their respective clubs.

Defenseman Tyson Harvey and forward Diego Cuglietta will joing the Kamloops Storm and forward Jared Marchi will play in the KIJHL Junior B league this season for the Kimberly Dynamiters. Cam Rowat, Ryan Rehill, Braden Pears, and Troy Trombley will all be joining Junior A hockey clubs for the upcoming season.

The Blazers first exhibition action is this Friday, September 2nd when they host the Victoria Royals at the McArthur Island Sports Centre. Game time is 7pm and advanced tickets can be purchased at the Kamloops Blazers Box Office. Tickets are only $10.

Season Tickets for the 2011-12 season are on sale now. Contact Director of Ticketing, Todd Carnelley at the Kamloops Blazers office at 250-828-1144 ext. 224 or tcarnelley@blazerhockey.com to purchase your seats for all 36 home games.

White Beats Blue 4-2

2011-08-30T22:38:00.002-06:00

(from blazerhockey.com)

The annual intra-squad game in front of about 500 fans at the Interior Savings Centre ended in a 4-2 win for Team White over Team Blue Tuesday night.

JT Barnett opened the scoring for Team Blue with a rocket over the shoulder of goaltender Cole Cheveldave for a 1-0 lead. Team White responded quickly as Matt McLeod buried a rebound past goaltender Cam Lanigan for a 1-1 tie through the first period.

Team White had a strong second period as Logan McVeigh was set up nicely by veterans Brendan Ranford and Marek Hrbas giving Team White a 2-1 lead. Dylan Willick gave Team White a 3-1 lead potting a terrific centering pass from Devin Oakes past goaltender Taran Kozun. Team White outshot Team Blue 12-5 in the frame.

In the third period, Team Blue made it interesting as Aspen Sterzer found a Braden Pears deflected shot first and scored, cutting the lead to 3-2 in favour of Team White. Colin Smith iced the game with an empty net goal and a 4-2 victory.

------------

1. Team Blue – JT Barnett (Chase Souto, Tyler Hansen), PP, 9:08
1. Team White – Matt McLeod (Jared Marchi, Dallas Calvin), PP, 12:45

Penalties

Team Blue – Chase Souto, 2 minutes for Roughing, 4:18
Team White – MacKenzie Ferner, 2 minutes for Slashing, 8:05

2nd Period

2. Team White – Logan McVeigh (Marek Hrbas, Brendan Ranford), 1:35
3. Team White – Dylan Willick (Devin Oakes, Mitch Friesen), 13:33

Penalties

Team White – Josh Connolly, 2 minutes for Holding, 10:35
Team Blue – JC Lipon, 2 minutes for Holding, 11:44
Team Blue – Tre Potskin, 2 minutes for Elbowing, 11:58

3rd Period

2. Team Blue – Aspen Sterzer (Braden Pears, Chase Souto), 13:58
4. Team White – Colin Smith (Devin Oakes, Mitch Friesen), EN, 18:32

Penalties

Team Blue – JC Lipon, 2 minutes for High-Sticking, 1:58
Team Blue – Tre Potskin, 2 minutes for Tripping, 5:31
Team Blue – Chase Souto, 2 minutes for Hooking, 9:11

Shots by period

Team Blue – 12, 5, 9 = 26
Team White – 13, 12, 9 = 34

Goaltenders

Team Blue – Cam Lanigan 12/13, Taran Kozun 10/12, Braden Krogfoss 8/8
Team White – Cole Cheveldave 11/12, Troy Trombley 5/5, Scott Lapp 8/9

----------

The Blazers will look to get the roster down to around 30 players from the current 46. I'm expecting the team to have an announcement regarding that shortly.

Jon

Tuesday Afternoon Report

2011-08-30T17:24:00.000-06:00

It's our final Radio NL Country RV trainng camp report as we look ahead to tonight's Blue/White game at Interior Savings Center.

Blazers tuesday pm by keen941

Good Story...

2011-08-30T13:02:00.002-06:00

By Marty Hastings - Kamloops This Week

He isn’t a bus driver.

He’s a coach captain and Brennan Driedger is an integral part of the Kamloops Blazers.

The 35-year-old Kamloops product, known as CC (short for coach captain) by most, has been behind the wheel of the Blazers’ coach since 1999, the first year of the Dean Evason era.

“I feel like I am part of the team,” said Driedger, whose family owns Canada West Coachlines.

“I’m treated like part of the team and I am one of the team members, really.”

Hockey players often say a great deal of a team’s identity is found on the road, where tight quarters and long stretches of driving accelerate the speed of bonding.

And, there is always one man awake when the rest might be sleeping, ready to listen, ready to talk.

“When you’re on the road, you have your own family away from your family at home,” said Driedger, who was married this summer to his girlfriend of three years, Rachel.

“I’ve known some of these kids since they were 16 and I’m pretty close to these guys.”

The majority of good conversation is had after a win, though, as the atmosphere on the bus after a loss is depressing, to say the least.

“When we win, the guys are happy and there’s chit-chat on the bus,” said Driedger, who’s only been involved in two near-crash situations in 16 years of driving buses.

“There’s usually a couple honks after we win, leaving the arena.

“When we lose, we get on the bus and there’s pretty much no words said. We always drive at night and I hit blizzards and have nobody to talk to. It’s not a good vibe.”

The big losses — and there have been quite a few of them in recent years — weigh heavily on Driedger, just as they do on players, coaches and management.

“I feel sorry for the guys and I know they work hard,” Driedger said.

“I want to see the team succeed.”

There are two things that tend to get on Driedger’s nerves, the first, not surprisingly, being players who have a tendency to leave their trash on the bus.

“I say to the guys before the season, ‘I’m not your maid and I’m not here to clean up after your mess’,” Driedger said.

“Once they’re on the bus, I’m their coach, too.

“I won’t take the BS.”

There is also one nickname — Bussy — that Driedger would prefer not to be called.

“They call me Bussy,” said Driedger, who drives the team in a 2003 Prevost H3-45, a 57,000-pound bus with three axles and eight wheels.

“There’s usually a few choice words if that happens because, hey, I’ve got a career and I’ve got an education.”

Driedger is the maintenance supervisor at Canada West Coachlines. He runs a bus-repair shop which employs four mechanics.

The club’s longtime bus driver has been lucky enough to travel with a lot of very funny people, one of his favourites being former Blazers’ D-Man Ryan Bender.

“He was a character,” Driedger said.

Current Blazers’ captain Chase Schaber has his moments, too, Driedger said.

“Schabes, he’s pretty funny. He’s usually got a funky hairdoo and his shiny, mirror glasses.”

One of the least-favourable parts of Driedger’s job comes in the early hours of the morning, when faint chatter turns to snoring.

KTW asked Driedger who takes the cake for all-time loudest snorer.

“[Former Blazers’ play-by-play man] Kirk Fraser, definitely Kirk Fraser,” Driedger replied without hesitation.

“Don’t share a room with him, it won’t work.”

The Driedger family has had the Kamloops franchise’s driving contract since the early 1980s, when the club was called the Junior Oilers.

Driedger and his father, Bernie, have spent countless hours on the road, often braving treacherous winter conditions and doing their part to make sure the team arrives home safe.

The younger Driedger might not have too many years left behind the Blazers’ wheel, as he plans to stay closer to home when children become part of his life.

That likely won’t be an easy transition for Driedger — he loves driving rig for his surrogate hockey family.

“I can’t wait to get back on the road,” Driedger said.

Afternoon training camp report...

2011-08-29T17:25:00.000-06:00

A couple of veterans re-acquainting themselves with each other in the final scrimmage of main camp...

Mon pm report by keen941

Training Camp Day Four

2011-08-29T16:32:00.001-06:00

(courtesy blazerhockey.com)

Day four of training camp is complete and nine more players have been reassigned. The roster is now down to 46 players (31 forwards, 18 defensemen, 6 goaltenders) for the annual Blue versus White game tomorrow night at 7:00PM at the Interior Savings Centre. Tickets for the game can be purchased at the Box Office for $5.

Injury report: Matthew Needham, Elbow, day-to-day, Jordan DePape, Hip, day-to-day.

SCRIMMAGE at 9:00AM

Team White 1, Team Blue 0 SO
Team Blue 2, Team White 1 SO

Goal Scorers

Blue
1. JT Barnett (Unassisted)
2. Cole Ully (Shootout)

White
1. Matt McLeod (Shootout)
2. Jared Marchi (Brendan Ranford)

SCRIMMAGE at 10:30AM

Team Orange 2, Team Blue 1
Team Orange 2, Team Blue 1

Goal Scorers

Orange
1. Tyson McLellan (Cole Souto)
2. Chase Schaber (Unassisted)
3. Chase Schaber (Chase Souto)
4. Chase Souto (Colin Smith)

Blue
1. Brady Gaudet (Unassisted)
2. Cole Ully (Brady Gaudet)

SCRIMMAGE at 12:00PM

Team White 2, Team Orange 0
Team Orange 3, Team White 1

Goal Scorers

White
1. JC Lipon (Unassisted
2. Brayden Gelsinger (Jared Marchi, Brendan Ranford)
3. Brendan Ranford (Jared Marchi)

Orange
1. Chase Souto (Dallas Calvin, Chase Schaber)
2. Tim Bozon (Colin Smith)
3. Eric Krienke (Chase Souto, Chase Schaber)

Tomorrow's Schedule

MONDAY, AUGUST 29, 2011

8:45AM - 10:00 AM
Practice - White

10:15 AM - 11:30 AM
Practice - Blue

7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
BLUE VS. WHITE

Monday Morning Training Camp Report

2011-08-29T09:25:00.000-06:00

We take a closer look at the blueline on our Radio NL Country RV Monday morning training camp report....

Mon am report by keen941

Training Camp Day Three

2011-08-28T17:00:00.000-06:00

(courtesy Kamloops Blazers / blazerhockey.com)

Day three of training camp has come to an end. There were a few roster moves as the hockey club reassigned eight players to get down to 55 players (31 forwards, 18 defensemen, 6 goaltenders).

Day four of training camp features three games tomorrow at 9:00AM, 10:30AM, and 12:00PM. Following the games, more reassignments will be released.

The annual Blue vs. White game will be held on Tuesday, 7:00PM at the Interior Savings Centre.

Injury report: Matthew Needham, Elbow, day-to-day, Jordan DePape, Hip, day-to-day.

SCRIMMAGE at 9:00AM

Team Orange 2, Team Blue 1
Team Blue 2, Team Orange 0

Goal Scorers

Blue
1. Dylan Willick (Unassisted)
2. JT Barnett (Dylan Willick)
3. JT Barnett (Unassisted

Orange
1. Josh Caron (Chase Souto, Chase Schaber)
2. Chase Schaber (Unassisted)

SCRIMMAGE at 10:30AM
Team White 1, Team Orange 0 SO
Team Orange 1, Team White 0 SO

Goal Scorers

Orange
1. Tim Bozon (Shootout)
2. Eric Krienke (Shootout)

White
1. Diego Cuglietta (Shootout)
2. Jesse Shynkaruk (Shootout)

SCRIMMAGE at 12:00PM

Team Blue 2, Team White 2
Team White 3, Team Blue 2

Goal Scorers

White
1. Brayden Gelsinger (Brendan Ranford)
2. Brayden Gelsinger (JC Lipon)
3. Brendan Ranford (JC Lipon)
4. Matt McLeod (Ryan Hanes)
5. JC Lipon (Brendan Ranford, Diego Cuglietta)

Blue
1. Tre Potskin (JT Barnett, Brady Gaudet)
2. JT Barnett (Dylan Willick, Logan McVeigh)

Tomorrow's Schedule

MONDAY, AUGUST 29

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
White vs. Blue

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Orange vs. Blue

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Orange vs. White

Sunday Afternoon Report

2011-08-28T16:10:00.000-06:00

Goaltenders and veterans stood out today for the opening day of main camp scrimmages.

Sunday aft report by keen941

Sunday Morning Training Camp Report

2011-08-28T09:10:00.000-06:00

Here's our Sunday morning report as heard on Radio NL 610 AM

Sunday am report by keen941

Main Camp Teams

2011-08-27T23:14:00.003-06:00

TEAM WHITE

9 FRIESEN 95 10 CUGLIETTA 95 11 LIPON 93
12 HANES 92 13 SHYNKARUK 96 14 OAKES 95
15 RANFORD 92 16 McLEOD 95 17 KOONER 96
18 GELSINGER 95 19 MARCHI 95

2 HARVEY 95 3 MASCHMEYER 91
4 SCHACHER 95 5 MADAISKY 92
6 GRAN 95 7 HAMONIC 96
8 CROSS 94

1 CHEVELDAVE 93
30 TROMBLEY 94
20 WARREN 95

TEAM BLUE

8 ULLY 95 9 WILLICK 92 10 TORDIFF 96
11 NACHTIGALL 96 12 McVEIGH 94 15 BARNETT 92
16 GILLIES 95 17 STERZER 94 19 DePAPE 92
20 HOLICK 96 21 BEBB 95 22 POTSKIN 95

2 GAUDET 94 3 PIERS 96
4 BELL 94 5 FERNER 95
6 HRBAS 93 7 REHILL 95

1 KOZUN 94
30 KROGFOSS 95
35 McLEOD 96

TEAM ORANGE

8 KRIENKE 96 9 OWEN 94 12 ROWAT 94
14 CALVIN 94 19 SCHABER 91 17 Ch.SOUTO 94
18 BOZON 94 21 SMITH 93 20 LEVESQUE 95
32 Co. SOUTO 95 33 McLELLAN 95

2 CARON 91 3 THOMSON 96
4 CONNOLLY 95 5 HANSEN 93
6 PEARS 93 7 BUCHANAN 96

1 LANIGAN 92
30 LAPP 95
15 HAMER-JACKSON 95

Rookie Camp Wraps Up

2011-08-27T22:29:00.002-06:00

Training Camp Day 2 Recap

(courtesy Kamloops Blazers/blazerhockey.com)

Kamloops Blazers 2011 Rookie Camp has come to a close. 63 players including, 35 forwards, 19 defenseman, and 9 goaltenders are remaining for main camp scrimmages starting tomorrow morning.

Injury report: Matthew Needham, Elbow, day-to-day. Dylan Frey, Knee, Reassigned. Conner Clouston, Elbow, Reassigned.

SCRIMMAGE #3 at 9AM, Saturday, August 27, 2011

Team Blue 6, Team Black 3

Goal Scorers

Blue
1. Diego Cuglietta (Unassisted),
2. Tyson McLellan (Cuglietta)
3. Cuglietta (Jordan Levesque, Braiden Epp),
4. Keegan Kjargaard (Mitch Friesen, Kyler Nachtigall),
5. McLellan (Friesen)
6. Tyson Harvey (EN)

Black
1. Brandon Becker (Alex Gillies, Ryan Rehill)
2. Mathew Hill (Zach Schlitt)
3. Alex Gillies (Unassisted)

SCRIMMAGE #4 at 12:00PM, Saturday, August 27, 2011

Team Orange 4, Team White 2

Goal Scorers

Orange
1. Matt McLeod (Jesse Haeusler)
2. Jesse Shynkaruk (Dylan Frey)
3. Jared Marchi (Unassisted)
4. Conner Richards (EN)

White
1. Jordan Thomson (Unassisted)
2. Eric Krienke (Brayden Gelsinger)

SCRIMMAGE #5 at 5:30PM, Saturday, August 27, 2011

Team Orange 6, Team Blue 2

Goal Scorers

Orange
1. Dylan Kooner (Tre Potskin)
2. Dylan Kooner (Unassisted)
3. Jared Broderson (Josh Connolly, Conner Richards)
4. Jared Marchi (Unassisted)
5. Tre Potskin (Richards, Longfellow)
6. Jared Marchi (Unassisted)

Blue
1. Kyler Nachtigall (Mitch Friesen)
2. Kyler Nachtigall (Unassisted)

SCRIMMAGE #6 at 7:30PM, Saturday, August 27, 2011

Team Black 4, Team White 3 SO

Goal Scorers

Black
1. Devin Oakes (Unassisted)
2. Conner Bebb (C. Souto)
3. Conner Bebb (Unassisted)
4. SO goals by Alex Gillies and Conner Bebb

White
1. Darren Medeiros (Unassisted)
2. Cole Ully (Unassisted)
3. Eric Krienke (Cole Ully, Brayden Gelsinger)

SUNDAY, AUGUST 28, 2011

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Orange vs. Blue

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Orange vs. White

12 PM - 1PM
Blue vs White

Saturday Afternoon Report

2011-08-27T16:05:00.000-06:00

More action today with a pair of rookie scrimmages earlier today with two more planned for this evening at 5:30/7:30pm.

Main camp scrimmages begin in the morning at 9am.

Here's our Radio NL training camp report for the afternoon...

Saturdaypmreport by keen941

Saturday Morning Report

2011-08-27T07:20:00.001-06:00

Satamreport (newsbooth) by keen941

Day One Wrap

2011-08-26T23:27:00.002-06:00

The first rookie scrimmages went off tonight with a few players showing off some skill and others with some physicality.

The Saturday morning report which will be posted here in the AM, includes some words from 16 year-old D Josh Connolly - the Blazers 3rd round pick in 2010. He played well despite his team losing 3-2 in a shootout in the 2nd scrimmage.

Had a chance to sit down with San Jose Sharks Head Coach Todd McLellan who's son Tyson is in camp. Todd and I have some ties back to Swift Current. He was inducted into their Hall of Fame last summer for his time there as a Head Coach/General Manager with the Broncos. In fact he said the last junior hockey he's been around was back in Swift Current in the spring of 2000. From there, he joined the pro ranks with the AHL's Cleveland Lumberjacks and will be entering his 4th season with the Sharks next month.

Tyson received four WHL camp invites but sat down and made the decision to come to Kamloops on his own. He's playing up-front for Team Blue during rookie scrimmages.

Some interesting notes from camp (courtesy Kamloops Blazers)

There are currently 68 players in rookie camp (BC – 44, AB – 12, SK – 6, MB – 2, USA – 4) and 28 players in main camp (BC – 7, AB –8, SK – 5, MB – 1, USA – 3, SVK – 1, GER – 1).

Chase Souto, who was on the Blazers roster last season and brother Cole Souto, a free agent invite, are the only brothers at training camp.

Out of the 98 players in camp, 7 of them are Kamloops’ natives. This includes Ryan Hanes who is entering his third season with the hockey club, and 2011 9th round draft pick Liam McLeod.

There are four players whose Father’s have coached in the WHL. Free Agent invite Tyson McLellan from San Jose, CA is the son of former Swift Current Broncos Head Coach, Todd McLellan. Todd currently coaches the San Jose Sharks of the NHL. Free Agent invite Cooper Holick is the son of former Kootenay Ice Head Coach, Mark Holick. Mark currently coaches the Syracuse Crunch of the AHL. Blazers’ 7th round pick in 2010, MacKenzie Ferner is the son of former Blazers Head Coach, and current Everett Silvertips Head Coach, Mark Ferner. Finally, the Blazers’ 3rd round pick in 2011, Conner Clouston, is the son of Medicine Hat Tigers Head Coach, Shaun Clouston.

Blazers import defenseman Marek Hrbas arrived in Kamloops late Friday evening. The 18-year-old, who was acquired from the Edmonton Oil Kings in the summer, will skate for the first time tomorrow afternoon at 3:00pm.

Injury Report: Matt Needham, day-to-day, Elbow

Recap:

SCRIMMAGE #1 at 5:30 PM

Team White 9, Team Blue 5

SCRIMMAGE #2 at 7:30 PM

Team Black 3, Team Orange 2

SATURDAY, AUGUST 26, 2011

9:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Rookie Game- Black vs. Blue

11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
Rookie Goalies

12:00 PM - 1:45 PM
Rookie Game- Orange vs. White

3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Main Camp Practice

5:30 PM - 7:15 PM
Rookie Game- Orange vs. Blue

7:30 PM - 9:15 PM
Rookie Game- White vs. Black

Blazer Training Camp Report Friday Afternoon

2011-08-26T15:22:00.002-06:00

Blazer 420pm report by keen941

A reminder, week-end trainng camp updates via twitter @JonKeenNLSports

Jon

Blazer Training Camp Report #1

2011-08-26T08:43:00.002-06:00

As heard on Radio NL this morning at 8:40am :

840 tc report by keen941

Our next report is at 4:25pm on Radio NL 610 AM, I'll try to post it later this afternoon after it airs...

Jon

Ten Things the Blazers Will Need to Overcome

2011-08-25T22:22:00.000-06:00

Last week it was ten things to be excited about for the upcoming season, now it's time to look at the other side...ten things the Blazers need to overcome as they prepare for puck drop on the 2011/12 campaign. Situations just don't change because it's a new season, a team has to work at it to get better. Here's 10 things I think the Blazers will need to overcome...

1. Discipline - Yes it might as well be the number one issue. Last year's team showed at times a complete lack of it. Leading the league in PIMS for a good chunk of the season, the Blazers finished with the 4th most in the WHL with 1500 as a team. Key players were also suspended for parts of the season including Chase Schaber, Brendan Ranford, and Jordan DePape. Players served a total of 22 games in suspensions and quite frankly the team was in no position to get a break from the officiating for most of the season. I know discipline will be stressed throughout camp by the coaching staff and will be a focal point of this team moving forward.

2. Coaching Dynamic - The Blazers have not one, but two WHL head coaches on the bench this season. That is a good thing in my opinion but it poses some potential logistical problems. With the addition of Dave Hunchak as the team's Associate Coach, the Blazers will have to find a dynamic that works. Who controls what, who says what, and who puts their foot down. So far it's going well between Guy Charron and Dave Hunchak. I'm sure the two will be communicating their thoughts openly to get the best out of the scenario. Let's keep in mind, Guy felts Hunchak was the right guy for the job.

3. Penalty Kill - This has been a point of contention for this hockey club and is exposed more by the lack of discipline discussed above. Last year's PK had a decent 2nd half of the season but still only killed off powerplays at 76.4% - 20th out of 22 teams. Two seasons ago the PK was at 75.3% - again 20th out of 22 teams. A year before that, 76.9%. You have to go back to the 06/07 season to find the last time the PK was over 80% and even that year it was only 80.2%.

If the Blazers want to be a team in the upper echelon, it means the PK will have to be in the 83% to 85% range.

4. Defense - the Blazers gave up the most goals in the Western Conference last season with 285 - 3rd most in the league ahead of only fellow non-playoff teams Regina and Lethbridge. Granted, the Blazer blueline is older this season, they still have to go out and prove themselves. Just because everyone is a year older, improvement doesn't just magically happen.

With six returning veterans in Austin Madaisky, Bronson Maschmeyer, Tyler Hansen, Josh Caron, Brady Gaudet and newly acquired Marek Hrbas, it'll be up to all of them to take the next step. Madaisky, Caron and Maschmeyer will have to specifically lead the back-end but it'll be strength in numbers if the Blazers want to be a winner.

Dave Hunchak has a proven track record of developing defenseman as a coach. We will see if he can continue the trend with the Blazers.

5. Fragile mindset - The Blazers lost a handful of games last season and gave up precious points because of late goals against in tie games. Too many times the Blazers gave up that heartbreaking last minute goal. It was a "playing not to lose" mentality and not an assertive attitude that was their demise. There's nothing worse than giving up that late goal. It adds doubt and can snowball in a hurry. The Blazers need todictate the pace and flow in those situations and not sit back and react. It won't happen overnight, but every situation they overcome this season will build momentum in their favor.

6. Goaltending - the Blazers need to get quality goaltending all season long. They likely haven't had a legit game-stealing all-star goaltender since Devan Dubnyk in the 05/06 season. With the departure of Jeff Bosch, the Blazers will host an audition for the number one spot. Cam Lanigan and Cole Cheveldave are expected to battle it out in camp with Taran Kozun and Troy Trombley trying to push into a back-up role. As the saying goes...you only go as far as your goaltending.

7. Getting everyone on board - Last season I think there were times when not everyone was on the same page. Perhaps some players were more or less motivated than others and the coaching staff said as much in our post-game shows. It's cliche but the Blazers will need everyone "pulling on the rope in the same direction" this season if they want to have the year they hope to have.

8. Better play within the BC division - The Blazers lost every single head-to-head series in the BC division last season. A combined record of 10-19-1-2. Division games are always big ones...the Blazers gave up too many points to their division rivals leading to a last place finish in the BC division.

9. Being more resilient - The Blazers will have to show a bit more of it this season. Whether it's overcoming a bad call, bad goal or injury problems, this team will need to be able to handle adversity better. At times emotions get the best of this team and usually it had a negative effect. The Blazers will have to battle through it this season because adversity will come up several times over the course of a 72 game schedule.

10. Exorcising the playoff demons - The truth of the matter is this: No matter how good or bad of a regular season the Blazers have, their year will be judged on playoff success or lack thereof. The Blazers haven't won a playoff round since 1999 - the last time they went to the WHL Championship. Since then, they've amassed a 5-40 record in the playoffs with 10 straight series losses. It is the biggest issue dogging the Blazers and will be until this team gets through a round or two and takes a run at an Ed Chynoweth Cup.

Tweetin' from Training Camp

2011-08-24T16:04:00.003-06:00

For those looking for live, on-the-fly updates from training camp follow my twitter account @jonkeenNLsports. I've noticed a few extra followers lately from family members of Blazer veterans and hopefuls.

We will also be carrying daily training camp reports on Radio NL 610 AM Kamloops.

Jon

GM Bonner Talks Training Camp; New Season

2011-08-24T14:14:00.007-06:00

I recently sat down with Blazers General Manager to discuss the new season and training camp which starts officially Thursday night with rookie registration. The Blazers will have 73 rookies aged 15/16 on the ice with main camp adding another 29 players into the mix.

On the new season....

Bonner on new season by keen941

On camp expectations...

Bonner on camp expectations by keen941

On rookie camp and the players coming in...

Bonner on rookie camp by keen941

On the battle at the goaltending spot...

Bonner on goaltending by keen941

On the veteran blueline heading into camp...

Bonner on veteran blueline by keen941

On the battle within from the forward group...

Bonner on battle up front by keen941

On the forward group as a whole...

Bonner on forwards by keen941

Jon

GM Craig Bonner Talks Training Camp

2011-08-23T17:43:00.003-06:00

I sat down with Blazers GM Craig Bonner earlier this week to talk Blazer training camp. He discussed the expectations of both himself and the coaching staff and also broke down the individual positions and where the battles will be.

He stressed their will big a huge emphasis on inner-competition within the team throughout camp and the season ahead.

I'll post the audio of the interview tomorrow on this blog.

Jon

Blazers Announce Game Change

2011-08-22T18:51:00.000-06:00

The location of the Kamloops Blazers pre-season game versus the Victoria Royals has been changed. The game will now be played at the McArthur Island Sports Centre on Friday, September 2nd starting at 7:00pm.

Tickets for the pre-season games and the Blue versus White intra-squad game are available for purchase at the Interior Savings Centre box office.

Tickets for the Blue vs. White intra-squad game on Tuesday, August 30th at the Interior Savings Centre will be $5, while tickets for all exhibition games will be $10 for Adults, $8 for Seniors, and $5 for Youth.

Ten Reasons to be Excited for Blazer Season

2011-08-17T19:16:00.015-06:00

Yes...that's a pretty big sign Blazer training camp is just days away. The ice is in at Interior Savings Center (photo credit Ashley Neuls) and it's time to start diving into the new season ahead. Today we take a look at "10 Reasons" to get excited about heading into the new year. Next week it's ten reasons that are concerning the team and areas they'll need improvement.

Rookies take to the ice a week from Friday for the first on-ice sessions, the veterans join the mix on the following Monday.

Here are ten reasons in no particular order....

1. Blazer defenseman Josh Caron says he's 100 percent as he heads into training camp. He missed most of last year with a collarbone injury and when he returned he admittedly wasn't the same player.

Caron heads into the league as potentially the most menacing force with the gloves off. It's something he didn't do very often last year but likely the main reason Minnesota signed him to a deal as a free-agent out of training camp last year. Caron racked up 190 PIMs in the 09-10 season but the injury limited him to just 27 games and 47 PIMS

2. Rookie forward Matt Needham will be here on a full-time basis this season as a 16 year-old.

The Blazers first round pick in the 2010 draft (8th overall) saw action in 13 games picking up 3-4-7. At times he was centering the top line because of injuries.

I'm not sure what a realistic offensive goal is for Matt this season but I'm assuming he will be put in offensive situations that most 16 year-olds usually don't get.

The stocky forward is physically ready to play at this level. The first ever 2nd generation Blazer will be exciting to watch develop over the years.

3. Dylan Willick comes into training camp in great shape and with confidence after getting an invite to Minnesota Wild prospects camp this summer and a return invite to the Wild for the fall.

Willick will be thrust into a leadership role and hopefully his "lead by example" style will be contagious with this teammates.

The transformed Kamloopsian will play in all situations now in his 3rd year and be looked upon for more offensive output following last years 24 goals and 20 assists in what was his coming out party.

4. The time is now for D Brady Gaudet to establish himself as a full-time top four d-man. The former 1st round bantam pick slid into the top 4 at times last year and shows a ton of promise moving into his 2nd year in the league.

Brady has shown some good offensive instincts and will get a shot on the PP. This is a big year for Brady...and he knows it.

5. Speaking of defenseman, the Blazers can't wait for the WHL debut of 15 year-old 1st round pick Jordan Thomson at some point this season.

The Wawanesa, MB product is the highest ever bantam pick in franchise history at4th overall.

Coming off the NHL Mentorship Camp in Toronto, Thomson will likely see a call-up early if there's injuries or during the Blazers east division swing.

It'll be a treat watching him perform at rookie camp next week as we get our first look at the highly touted prospect.

6. I think Colin Smith is due for a big season. The 18 year-old forward has been the successor to the offensive throne since he was drafted by the Blazers back in 2008 with the 7th overall pick.

Smith had a strong 2nd half of the season which led to the majority of his 21 goals. His 50 points last year could easily be 70+ if he picks up where he left off.

He's coming off a strong U-18 World Championship in Germany. He excelled in his role as a checker while working his way from the 13th forward for Team Canada into a prominent role at the end.

Colin has personality, creativity and the ability to finish. After being passed over in the NHL draft this summer he should come with all the motivation necessary for a big year in a Blazer uniform.

7. Goaltender Cole Cheveldave comes in after a great season in the AJHL with the Drumheller Dragons. The league's rookie of the year, and runner-up for AJHL MVP enters his 18 year-old season an instantly comes in looking to land the starter role.

Cheveldave impressed during a visit with the team late last year in which he came in to get a feel for the city and the hockey club. He later signed with the team.

He's got an edge, he's a confident kid and will look to battle Cam Lanigan for #1 job with the departure of graduated goaltender Jeff Bosch.

8. After a scary incident back in early February which led to a season ending broken C-7 vertebrae, Austin Madaisky will return healthy and ready to assert himself as the team's #1 defenseman.

Madaisky will have a strong supporting stuff around him which should take some of the pressure off. The 19 year-old will have to accept the role of being a defenseman who will play against the league's top offensive players on a night in, night out basis. A 5th round choice of the Columbus Blue Jackets back in the summer of 2010, I expect him to be a bit tentative when he comes back into a game situation based on the hit he took from Chilliwack D Brandon Manning which led to a seven-game suspension and three months for Madaisky in an Aspen collar

9. The big line (Ranford/Schaber/DePape). For the first couple months of last season, a case could be made this trio was the best line in the WHL. Injury and suspensions really led to the demise of this line. All three were suspended at different times this season and all three battled injury problems at different times as well.

Returning healthy and motivated could lead to big things for this trio. This year though we will be surrounded with a better supporting cast to take some of the burden off their shoulders.

10. The Blazers win at nearly all cost attitude this season. There's no doubt patience has worn thin when it comes to this team's mindset from the fans, to the players, to the coaches and especially the ownership group.

The recent struggles are well documented. They haven't advanced past the 1st round since 1999. Since then, they've amassed a 5-36 record in the post-season. That's nine straight series losses.

If the Blazers are a legit contender after Christmas, expect a potential blockbuster deal to perhaps put the team over the top. They have to put themselves in that situation first. It's definitely attainable but for now the Blazers have to go out and do it.

They certainly will have the support both on and off the ice.

Let's drop the puck on a new season.

Thoughts? Comments? Additions?

Jon

Tom Gaglardi Interview

2011-08-11T14:32:00.001-06:00

Blazers part-owner Tom Gaglardi was on Radio NL's Jim Harrison Show this morning and covered a few topics. The complete interview is below.

T.gaglardi jh show..aug. 1111 by keen941

Catching up with Darryl Reaugh, Jarome Iginla & Shane Doan

2011-08-08T23:13:00.003-06:00

Up at Sun Peaks Resort on Friday for the Blazers Annual Alumni Golf Tournament... I had a chance to talk to a bunch of alumni... here's a few interviews from the course...

Darryl Reaugh played with the Blazers in the mid-80's as a goaltender. He's now in his 16th season as the Dallas Stars Color Commentator on Stars broadcasts on FSN.

Also Jarome Iginla and Shane Doan who are prepping for another season in the NHL in the fall....

Shane Doan by keen941

Jarome iginla by keen941

Darryl reaugh by keen941

Blazers Anniversary Logo

2011-08-07T11:43:00.002-06:00

The Blazers hosted a successful alumni tournament Friday at Sun Peaks Resort. I had a chance to catch up with some of the former players and ownership group. I'll be posting the audio of some of the interviews and using some throughout the season on the Blazer broadcasts on Radio NL.

I should have some of the interviews up today or tomorrow....

Jon

Willick Carries WCSG Torch

2011-08-06T22:03:00.002-06:00

Blazer F Dylan Willick was one of 40 torchbearers Friday leading up to the Opening Ceremonies of the Western Canada Summer Games in Kamloops.

Eric Doyle Quitting Hockey

2011-08-02T17:40:00.002-06:00

When I first saw I had an email from Eric Doyle, I was excited to see what was new with him.

A player I had called games for when he played for the Swift Current Broncos for parts of four seasons, he was always a favorite of mine. But as I read the email, my thoughts turned from excitement to disappointment to sadness.

In the message Eric told me he was done playing hockey. On advice from Doctors, he was packing in his career because of concussions and post-concussion syndrome.

The Calgary native broke into the WHL with the Everett Silvertips in 2005-06 after being a 1st round bantam pick by the 'Tips in 2004. A blockbuster trade involving Dane Crowley and the late Jordan Mistelbacher sent him to Swift Current midway through the 2006-07 season.

Doyle played in the annual CHL/NHL Top Prospects game that season and the future looked bright for the 17 year-old.

He was passed over in the 2007 NHL draft.

After nearly four full seasons in Bronco colors, Doyle was shipped to the Portland Winterhawks partway through his over-age season.

This is his story:

It was the final two seasons of his WHL career and along with it came three concussions. He's never been the same... and just hasn't fully recovered with several symptoms still looming daily.

"Over my career I had five diagnosed concussions...and probably two more that weren't. The last three concussions all came pretty close together and were the worst by far," said Doyle.

The first of the three happened one night in Swift Current. The Kamloops Blazers were in town in November of '08 and Doyle took a blind-side hit from CJ Stretch in open ice. The hit drew a four-game suspension. Doyle returned after missing only a game.

"The Stretch hit really started it and i think i came back too early from that one because we were injury plagued on defense at the time," recalled Doyle.

Doyle found his way back into the line-up and finished the regular season strong.

I remember the "Get Eric Doyle on Team WHL" Campaign when Swift Current hosted one of the games on the ADT Canada-Russia series. Doyle never played in the game in Swift Current for but was an injury replacement the following night against the Russians in Prince Albert.

The Broncos then met the Medicine Hat Tigers in the first round of the playoffs in a seven-game war. A head shot by Tigers D Matt McCue resulted in another Doyle concussion. It was game four of the series and the playoffs were over for him. McCue was handed a one game suspension.

"The McCue hit ended my playoffs. I was able to come home and not worry about getting back in the lineup. It took me a while at the gym before i felt ready to train again so i was a step behind physically going into the next season."

The Broncos then dealt Doyle to Portland the next year to get down to the maximum of three twenty year-olds.

He says a concussion late in the season on a hit from Tri-City American F Todd Kennedy turned out to be another damaging blow. Again... he thinks he came back too soon.

"That hit was really bad and I put pressure on myself to get back for playoffs being a leader and an older guy on the team. I dont think i was fully ready to come back that soon."

After being eliminated from the playoffs in the 09-10 season with the Hawks, he then shifted focus to his pro career.

I went to Manchester camp in the AHL and felt fine. Then I went to the Ontario Reign in the Coast and was playing really well. Then took a hit to the head and got diagnosed with another concussion."

I was cleared to play again, and played a handful of games. Then one day in practice I was hit in the temple with a high stick and blacked out. I didn't think much of it because it was just a high stick and kept practicing. The next day during morning skate I felt really light headed and dizzy and almost passed out during the skate.

Doctor said as much as a flick can concuss me. That was early November and the last time I have been on skates...."

I asked Eric if he was ok talking about some of the symptoms he's still facing.

"Yeah i want to get it out there," he said.

"Maybe it can help some kids going through concussion problems. Dizzyness, Nausea, headaches, short term memory are the physical things that still linger everyday. I've been treated and seeing therapists for depression and social anxiety disorder. I also have severe sleep problems which the docs all said are concussion related for me. "

"There are more people then you would think that deal with this but are afraid to say anything. I think it would be good for other players to see this to know its ok to admit they have problems."

He's not blaming anyone for how it all went down though.

"I want to make it clear it wasn't the fault of any of the coaches or trainers that I came back early. it was my own decision, and if anything it shows the computer testing can be cheated."

He wanted me to share some advice as well.

"I encourage anyone that has had a concussion to be honest with themselves, the trainers and the coaches about how you're feeling. It's not worth it to come back early if your not ready.. I know first hand. Your life is more important then hockey."

He continued...

"If you are away from home dealing with depression you need to find someone to talk to. I know a lot of teams have psychologists but also coaches and teammates are good to talk to as well. It takes a bigger man to admit you have a problem!"

I still love the game and cherished the times I had playing the game and the five years I spent in the WHL. I want to stay involved in the game some how and have always been interested in the scouting part of the game having gone through the bantam draft and the disappointments with the NHL draft."

Eric is now home in Calgary. He has five years of WHL paid education at his disposal through the WHL Scholarship Program... something he says he's "so grateful for". Doctors think school would be a bit too much for him to handle at this time so he's hoping to enroll after Christmas.

For now, he's working in his dad's sporting goods store, hoping someday to feel like his old self.

He says he's sought the appropriate help and is feeling happy about things, remaining positive for what lies ahead.

Jon

Countdown underway....

2011-08-02T11:13:00.001-06:00

As we hit August, thoughts of WHL training camps begin to take over. The Blazers have rookie camp registration set for Thursday, August 25th with rookie on-ice sessions beginning the next day on the 26th.

As we get closer to training camp, I'll be blogging two separate pieces focusing on "10 Things" to get excited about for the upcoming season, and "10 Things" the Blazers should be concerned about.

The Blazers Alumni golf tournament is set for Friday up at Sun Peaks. I hope to upload some pics from the event along the way either to this blog or my twitter (on the right side of the page) @JonKeenNLSports.

Till then, enjoy what's left of summer...

Jon

Blazers Deal Underwood to Pats

2011-07-28T13:59:00.001-06:00

The Kamloops Blazers have made a move to help a crowded blue line by shipping 19 year-old defensman Brandon Underwood to the Regina Pats for a 4th round bantam pick.

The Blazers get a 4th round pick back after dealing there pick to Edmonton in the deal to get import D Marek Hrbas.

The Californian d-man should provide a little added toughness to the Pats.

The Blazers return defenseman Bronson Maschmeyer, Josh Caron, Austin Madaisky, Brady Gaudet, Tyler Hansen and Hrbas moving forward into the season.

Here's the news release:

Kamloops Blazers General Manager, Craig Bonner, announced today that they have traded 19-year-old defenseman Brandon Underwood to the Regina Pats in exchange for a 4th round 2012 WHL Bantam draft pick. Underwood spent the past three seasons with the Blazers playing in 149 games.

“We have an influx of experienced WHL defensemen returning to our roster,” said General Manager, Craig Bonner. “We’d like to thank Brandon for his three years with the Blazers and wish him the best of luck in his future.”

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Former Voice of Blazers/Jets Headed back to WPG

2011-07-26T13:03:00.002-06:00

This was on the @jonkeenNLSports twitter feed first but here it is for the blog.....

Former Voice of the Winnipeg Jets and for the glory years of the Kamloops Blazers Kelly Moore is headed back to Winnipeg to join CJOB radio's Jets coverage.

Broadcast rights were won by TSN Radio 1290 in Winnipeg.

Kelly has spent the past three years as Program Director of Country 103 in Kamloops - our sister station here at NL.

Prior to that, Kelly was the play-by-play broadcaster for both the Winnipeg Jets and Manitoba Moose.

Good luck Kelly, and thanks for all your help.

Jon

New/Old Radio Voice, Coaches Conference Wrap

2011-07-18T17:07:00.006-06:00

It'll be officially announced soon but I'm told Marlon Martens in Lethbridge is the new (and 2nd voice) of the Victoria Royals. Martens has previous WHL experience with the Lethbridge Hurricanes a few seasons ago. Martens lost his gig when the broadcasts rights were switched to 94.1 FM The Lounge in Lethbridge. The station then went in another direction hiring Pat Siedlecki.

Martens is the 2nd voice of the Royals in their very short history. Dave Sawchuk was originally hired in Victoria. The Music Director for The Zone FM stayed around long enough to get quoted in a news release. He later accepted a job in the music industry.

Randy Merkley was the voice of the Chilliwack Bruins before the franchise moved to the Island. He really wasn't given an opportunity to move with the team. He's exploring other options.

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It was a good weekend at the 5th annual Kamloops Coaches Conference. Nashville Predators Head Coach Barry Trotz closed out the conference with his presentation Sunday afternoon.

I hosted the Saturday night Hot Stove segment with guests Garry Davidson - the Director of Player Personnel for the Portland Winterhawks, Player Agent/CMG Sports Shane Corston, Montreal Canadiens Assistant Coach Perry Pearn, Former Assistant Coach in Kamloops/Vancouver/Tri City Terry Bangen, Former Blazer Steve Gainey and Kootenay Ice Head Coach Kris Knoblauch.

Of all the topics of conversation... it seemed the "what is PK Subban like to coach?" discussion drew the most interest. It was good to hear some stories from Perry Pearn on the subject.

A good conference, lots of time to chat with some of the guests and coaches taking it in KMHA's George Cochrane deserves some credit for bringing in a pretty good line-up over the three day event.

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Kamloops Blazer d-man Tyler Hansen and the Lethbridge Giants won the Prairie Big League championships (Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba) and have advanced to the Canadian Big League championships in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.

During the 15 game summer tournament schedule Tyler batted .594 with 3 - HR, 3 - triples, 9 - doubles, 22 singles and 2 strike outs. The Canadian Championships run from July 19 to July 24th with the winner advancing to North Carolina for the Big League World Series. Pic below:

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A dream come true for Winnipeg native Jordan DePape.

DePape has received an invite to attend Winnipeg Jets development camp. He received word over the weekend.

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Blazer F Dylan Willick and D Josh Caron spent the past week at Minnesota Wild development camp.

There's some highlights of them action here.

Both players scored in the post-game shootout. Caron's goal is 4:10 into the video, Willick's goal at 4:40.

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Wednesday

2011-07-13T13:16:00.003-06:00

The Kamloops Blazers have tentatively set their training camp schedule.

The rookies will be broken up into four teams with on-ice sessions August 26,27 and 28th. Main camp will open on the 29th.

The Blazers are back at Interior Savings Center this season after Cirque Du Soleil took over ISC last year forcing the Blazers to McArthur Island.

There should be an interesting crop of rookies with some WHL ties in the mix. I'm told as many as three current or former WHL coaches will have their sons at Blazer rookie camp.

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Thomas Frazee (Washington), and both Dylan Willick and Josh Caron (Minnesota) are skating at NHL Development Camps this week. Blazer F Colin Smith was at Edmonton Oilers camp last week and told me it "went well... he got a lot out of it."

Here's a pic of Frazee in action:

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The 5th annual Kamloops Coaches Conference is set for this weekend. Some of the guest speakers include Don Hay, Ryan Walter and Perry Pearn. Nashville Predators Head Coach Barry Trotz will close out the conference on Sunday.

There's presentations, an on-ice session and a Saturday night open hot-stove session planned.

I hear Kootenay Ice Head Coach Kris Knoblauch will be one of the people taking in the three day event.

I'll be helping out this weekend...I'll try to tweet some pics.

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Just one more WHL coaching vacancy to fill...that's in Regina with the Pats. A lot of conflicting reports the last week as to who will take over the reigns. There's more here.

Jon

Mark Ferner WHL Bound

2011-07-05T13:41:00.003-06:00

BCHL's Vernon Vipers Head Coach/GM Mark Ferner has resigned his position for a head coaching job in the Western Hockey League.

Details will be announced tomorrow. I would speculate the former Blazer coach will be announced in Everett as the Silvertips bench boss.

Regina and Moose Jaw also have openings although I don't believe he's in the mix there.

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Blazer News...

2011-06-30T12:22:00.003-06:00

It's been on twitter now for awhile but former Blazer and minority team owner Darryl Sydor has been named an Assistant Coach with the Minnesota Wild - reuniting with Mike Yeo who he assisted last year with the AHL's Houston Aeros.

There's more from Minnesota here

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Blazer F Colin Smith will attend Edmonton Oilers summer development camp July 4-9th. This after being overlooked at the NHL Draft.

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For the latest news follow twitter @JonKeenNLSports

Jon

Former Bronco Assistant Coach Resigns in Salmon Arm

2011-06-29T15:52:00.004-06:00

Tim Kehler has resigned from the Salmon Arm Silverbacks of the BCHL after only one year on the job.

Kehler was named the BCHL's Interior Conference coach of the year this past season.

The former Swift Current Bronco Assistant Coach will now look for his next coaching opportunity.

GM Bonner on Import Pick Bozon

2011-06-29T12:49:00.002-06:00

Rick "The Bear" Wile spoke with Blazers General Manager Craig Bonner today regarding the Blazers CHL Import Pick Tim Bozon out of Lugano of the Swiss Jr. League. (more info below)

"His father (Phillipe) played in the NHL and played a number of years over in Switzerland and the European leagues. (Tim) has been around hockey his whole life. He's coming from a strong program in Switzerland in Lugano.

We've gone to a different country this year (in drafting) but he's a guy that we've been told has some potential in the draft next year. He has good size and you never know until you see him over here, we all know that. We'll see what happens."

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Blazers Select Swiss F Tim Bozon Update with Release

2011-06-29T11:26:00.003-06:00

The Blazers used their 27th overall pick to select Swiss F Tim Bozon. He's listed at 6'1, 184 pounds and played for Lugano of the Swiss Jr. League.

He's the son of former NHL'er Philippe Bozon who played with the St. Louis Blues for four seasons from 1991-95.

Tim Bozon was born in St. Louis and would represent France in any International tournament.

BLAZERS SELECTED TIM BOZON IN CHL IMPORT DRAFT

Kamloops, BC – The Kamloops Blazers have selected forward Tim Bozon from Switzerland with the 27th overall selection in the 2011 CHL Import Draft.

The 6’1”, 184lb forward played this past season with the HC Lugano Under-20 team in Switzerland. He scored 16 goals, 13 assists and 29 points in 27 games. The 1994-born Bozon is eligible for the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.

Bozon’s father, Philippe Bozon, played 144 NHL games with the St. Louis Blues from 1991-95. Tim was born in St. Louis, but has spent most of his life between Switzerland and France. He has suited up for the Under-18 Division B France National Team twice; this year playing in 5 games and finishing with 3 goals and 6 points to help France to a Bronze Medal.

This is the second time the Blazers have selected a Swiss player in the CHL Import Draft. In 2005, the Blazers chose Janick Steinmann 18th overall.

Blazers Release 2011-12 Schedule

2011-06-29T10:57:00.001-06:00

2011-2012 REGULAR SEASON SCHEDULE RELEASED

Kamloops, BC – The Kamloops Blazers have released their regular season schedule for the upcoming 2011-2012 hockey season. The hockey club will start the season with at home on Saturday, September 24th versus the Prince George Cougars. The hockey club will start with four straight home games, before the first road game in Everett on Saturday, October 8th.

A breakdown of home game nights for the Blazers:

Sunday – 3

Monday – 1

Tuesday – 1

Wednesday – 10

Thursday – 0

Friday – 12

Saturday – 9

Some other highlights from the schedule:

The Blazers only play 3 games in 3 nights once this season. They will be in Portland on Friday, October 14th, home versus Prince George on Saturday, October 15th and home versus Kelowna on Sunday, October 16th.

The Victoria Royals will make their first trip to Kamloops on Sunday, October 2nd, while the Blazers will be in Victoria for the first time on Tuesday, November 29th.
All of the Central Division teams will visit the Interior Savings Centre starting with Medicine Hat on Monday, October 10th.

The team will make one trip to Alberta this season to play Red Deer, Lethbridge and Medicine Hat in October.

The Blazers return to Saskatchewan and Manitoba in December 2011 for the first time since October 2009. The Eastern road trip will commence in Swift Current on Saturday, December 10th and finish in Moose Jaw on Saturday, December 17th.

The longest home-stand for the Blazers will be 4-games, which they do three times. The longest road trip will be in December when they play 6 games in 8 nights in Saskatchewan and Manitoba before the Christmas break from December 18-26.

The Blazers won’t play games in Edmonton, Kootenay or Calgary this year.

The Blazers will play Prince George ten times this season. They will play Kelowna, Vancouver and Victoria eight times each. There will be four games against each of the U.S. Division teams. The Blazers will visit each of the East Division teams once and play 12 games against the Central Division teams, including 9 of those games at home.

There will be two home games that start at 2pm this season. On Monday, October 10th and on Friday, November 11th.

Blazers Acquire D-Man Hrbas from Edmonton

2011-06-27T11:14:00.001-06:00

The Kamloops Blazers General Manager, Craig Bonner, announced today that they have acquired 18-year-old defenseman Marek Hrbas and the 27th overall pick in the 2011 CHL Import Draft from the Edmonton Oil Kings in exchange for the 18th overall pick in the 2011 CHL Import Draft and the Blazers’ 5th round pick in the 2012 WHL Bantam Draft.

Hrbas, from Plzen, Czech Republic, played 64 games with the Oil Kings last season scoring 5 goals, 12 assists for 17 points last season. Last season was his first in the WHL after spending the 2009-10 season with the Fargo Force of the USHL.

“We are pleased to add another puck-moving defenseman to our hockey club,” said General Manager, Craig Bonner. “This move solidifies one of our two import spots with a player who has played in North America for the past two years.”

The Blazers will now be selecting at 10:20am/PT in the 2011 CHL Import Draft which is on Wednesday, June 29th.

Draft Facts

2011-06-25T15:51:00.002-06:00

33 WHL'ers drafted over the last two days. The Edmonton Oil Kings, Saskatoon Blades and Portland Winterhawks each tied with four players selected.

Spokane and Swift Current had three. Red Deer, Prince Albert, Vancouver, and Seattle each had two.

There was one player chosen from Moose Jaw, Medicine Hat, Tri-City, Kelowna, Kootenay, Lethbridge and Brandon.

The Blazers along with Calgary, Everett, Prince George, Regina and Victoria all went without a player taken.

Blazers Blanked

2011-06-25T12:38:00.003-06:00

For the 2nd time since 1982 and the days of the Kamloops Jr. Oilers, the Blazers did not have a player taken at the NHL draft. The last time that happened was 2008. No doubt a disappointing day at the draft in Minnesota.

A good draft for the WHL though with 33 players selected. Best of luck to those drafted moving forward into next season.

Jon

NHL Draft Notes

2011-06-24T15:58:00.005-06:00

Tomorrow is shaping up to be a big day for a few Blazers hoping to hear their named called at the NHL draft in Minnesota.

Blazer F Colin Smith didn't get a whole lot of respect from NHL's Central Scouting 130th - MT - 96th - F . Saving his best for last, Smith ended the WHL's regular season scoring 13 of his 21 goals after January 7th. He also helped his draft stock after a strong showing at the spring U-18's in Germany.

"I haven't really paid to much attention to the rankings...throughout the year I wasn't really acknowledged as much as maybe I feel I should have been. I think that motivated me to be better."

Blazer F Dylan Willick was perhaps the Blazers most consistent player all season. He also wasn't a big favorite of the NHL's Central Scouting rankings after being left off the mid-term rankings and finishing 164th in the final rankings.

D Tyler Hansen also has a chance to be drafted. He finished 131st in the final rankings amongst North American skaters.

Don't forget about Chase Schaber. Entering his over-age season, Schaber could be selected late in the draft after being passed over the last two years.

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Two Blazers were selected last year. D Austin Madaisky was taken by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 5th round - 124th overall. F Brendan Ranford was selected in the 7th round - 209th overall by the Philadelphia Flyers.

Since 1982, the Blazers have only gone one year where no one was selected from the club. That year was 2008. The Blazers have had only one player selected in four drafts ( 2007, 2006, 1998, 1988 - Mark Recchi)

The most players drafted from the Blazers was in 1994. That year, nine players were chosen including Nolan Baumgartner, Jason Holland, Chris Murray, Jason Strudwick, Hnat Domenichelli, Brad Lukowich, Mike Josephson, Bob Westerby, Tyson Nash)

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Blazer GM Craig Bonner and majority owner Tom Gaglardi are taking in the draft in Minnesota.

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New Blazer Associate Coach Dave Hunchak is in the city this weekend. He's house hunting along with his wife Kim. It's expected he will be working out of the Blazer office by mid to late July.

Jon Keen

Blazers Pre-Season Schedule Announced

2011-06-23T12:23:00.002-06:00

The Western Hockey League's Exhibition schedule is out. It's a 64 game slate running from August 30th to September 18th.

There's pre-season tournaments set for Edmonton, Tri-City and Everett but the Blazers will not be taking part in any of them.

The Blazers will play six pre-season games starting with a visit by the Victoria Royals, September 2nd, before going to Ladner to face the Vancouver Giants, September 3rd.

The Blazers play Kelowna at home Sept. 9th, and, visit the Rockets on the 10th. The following week they host Prince George on Wednesday the 14th and visit PG on Friday September 16th.

The WHL's 792 game regular season schedule will be released next Wednesday.

Game Seven Recap

2011-06-15T13:51:00.001-06:00

For a great take of the game...that's yet to be played, check this out. Well done.

WHL Adressing Concussion Concerns / Mem Cup Finalists Named

2011-06-15T13:01:00.002-06:00

News Release:

WHL ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING CONCLUDES

Calgary, AB -- The Western Hockey League Board of Governors wrapped up their Annual General Meeting today in Calgary by announcing they have adopted a Seven Point Plan to reduce blows to the head and concussions. The WHL Seven Point Plan is a comprehensive approach to addressing this important matter and includes the adoption of new playing rules; more severe suspensions for repeat offenders; production of an educational video on risks of concussion; educating the players to be more responsible for themselves on the ice; a seminar for all WHL Head Coaches and General Managers; new soft cap elbow and shoulder pads; expanded research data and a review of all WHL arena facilities safety standards.

The WHL Playing Rule changes includes the adoption of a Checking to the Head penalty for lateral and blind side hits to an unsuspecting opponent in open ice where the head is targeted or is the principle point of contact. The WHL also tightened the standard on late hits as well as charging and interference penalties to address players building up significant speed and hitting the opponent along the boards with excessive force. The WHL also adopted a new embellishment rule and introduced automatic suspensions for players who receive multiple penalties for checking to the head, checking from behind, embellishment and kneeing.

“The WHL is fully committed to addressing head blows and concussions in a comprehensive manner,” commented WHL Commissioner Ron Robison. “We believe the Seven Point Plan we have adopted will not only create a safer environment for our players but will also enable us to better educate our players, coaches and officials as to what constitutes a legal hit.”

The WHL Board of Governors also adopted revisions to their Regulations and Constitution and received an update on their new WHL franchise in Victoria.

The WHL also announced that the Kelowna Rockets, Red Deer Rebels and Saskatoon Blades have been short listed as the final three candidates to host the 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup. The final bid presentations will be made at the October 12, 2011 meeting of the WHL Board of Governors in Calgary.

The WHL will be releasing the 2011-12 WHL Pre-Season schedule on Thursday, June 23 and the 2011-12 WHL Regular Season schedule on Wednesday, June 29.