The Broncos battled hard - had several chances to win it in regulation last night in Prince Albert - but in the end settle for just a single point in a 4-3 OT loss to the Raiders.
I was joking with Raiders play-by-play man Drew Wilson before the game about trying to do the Raiders a favour in their playoff battle with Regina and Edmonton.
I told him the two teams should try and make sure six points are awarded this weekend. He wouldn't go for two Bronco OT wins in the weekend home and home set but we settled on an OT win for the home team. I guess it's the Broncos turn tonight then. Do you think the rival Regina Pats would sign off on our deal??
The Broncos fell down 2-0 just eight minutes in as a determined Raiders team came out and forechecked hard. The shots were 12-2 before the Broncos woke up and decided to take the play to the Raiders. The Broncos also made a goaltending change after the Raiders 2nd goal as Morgan Clark came in for his 2nd appearance as a Bronco. He played well.
Goals from J-D (Justin Dowling) and Keegan Dansereau evened the score 2-2 after 40 minutes.
A powerplay goal from Justin Bernhardt 3:30 into the 3rd put the Raiders ahead 3-2 early but the Broncos turned the heat up and eventually tied it on a deflection from John Negrin with 6:40 to play.
The Broncos staged a furious attempt to win it in regulation and appeared to be a team playing like they were down two. I thought Justin Dowling had scored late on a 2-on-1 after his pass hit the stick of a Raiders defenseman and bounced over the shoulder and onto the back of Steven Stanford. Stanford did a combat roll of sorts and kept it out somehow.
A Derek Claffey penalty with 21 seconds to go in the third proved to be the difference as the Raiders red-hot powerplay struck just 25 seconds into OT for the 4-3 win.
The teams do it again tonight, this time at the Credit Union i-plex. 7pm pre-game show, 7:30pm play-by-play as the Broncos honour 13 individuals who helped bring the team back to Swift Current for the 86/87 season. Frank " Digger " Macbean is one of the 13. He was our guest last night on the pre-game show.
--------------
Randoms....
- What do Moose Jaw and Medicine Hat have in common? Not much. But both teams have lost games 10-1 on the road the last month. We were scoreboard watching last night at the restaurant and couldn't believe the score coming out of Kelowna. One of those nights. It isn't fun being on the wrong end of those ones.
- What a time for the Warriors to hit the tank. They lost their 11th game in a row last night and haven't won at home since early December. The timing issue is that the City of Moose Jaw is about to have a plebiscite to decide on a the new Multiplex. An 11 game losing streak must be souring a few people. I think the vote will be decided by mere percentage points... but I'm not sure which way. For the sake of the WHL, let's hope we have a "Yes".
- I showed up to the rink yesterday with what looked like a tennis ball hidden below my eye. I took a puck just below my left eye Thursday night when I got my stick in front of a shot and it deflected straight up. No damage I don't think, but a swollen cheek and a black-eye. The guys seem to get a laugh out of it. Not often the broadcaster has to ask the trainer for an ice bag on the way home.
The timing isn't good, as I'm broadcasting the Sask Power Scotties Womens Curling Championship game tomorrow for SaskTel Max.
If you see me at the rink, that's what happened.
Have a good weekend,
Jon
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
B roncos Post Back-to-Back Wins
It was a lot closer than perhaps anticipated but the Broncos skated away with a 5-3 win in Moose Jaw after trailing for a seven minute span in the third period.
It's the first time the Broncos have won back-to-back games since their B.C. road swing in December.
As for the Warriors it was their 10th straight loss.
It also puts Warriors Head Coach Dave Hunchak a dubious 1-12 against his former team after taking over the coaching reigns at the beginning of the 07 /08 season.
A lot of stories swirling around MJ these days.... plus theres a big vote on the proposed Multiplex in less than a month.
Let's hope for the good of the WHL the residents of Moose Jaw vote in favour of the new facility.
More later...
Jon
It's the first time the Broncos have won back-to-back games since their B.C. road swing in December.
As for the Warriors it was their 10th straight loss.
It also puts Warriors Head Coach Dave Hunchak a dubious 1-12 against his former team after taking over the coaching reigns at the beginning of the 07 /08 season.
A lot of stories swirling around MJ these days.... plus theres a big vote on the proposed Multiplex in less than a month.
Let's hope for the good of the WHL the residents of Moose Jaw vote in favour of the new facility.
More later...
Jon
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Gameday
I had a chance to speak with the Broncos new Assistant General Manager yesterday. Sheldon Ferguson will meet the team some time tonight in Moose Jaw.
He sounds excited to get started and get back to his roots. You can hear our interview tonight on the pre-game show just before the Broncos face-off with the Warriors. Catch it on the Eagle 94.1 FM starting at 6:30pm. You can also catch it on streaming www.scbroncos.com under listen live at the bottom of the page.
The Broncos take on what should be a fired up Warriors team tonight after taking an 11-1 loss to Saskatoon in their last outing.
Broncos Assistant Coach Tim Kehler addressed that Sunday night following the Broncos/Raiders game:
"It's a team that has certainly struggled here over the last number of weeks. I'm sure Hunch (Warriors Head Coach Dave Hunchak) will be playing the pride card and expect a lot from their guys. That is a team we have played well against and a building we have played well in. A lot of it is because you really need to compete hard in the small confines of the Crushed Can. I think it brings out the best in a lot of our guys."
The Broncos are trying to string some wins together after a 6-3 win over Prince Albert Sunday. They haven't won back-to-back games in the New Year and are 4-7 in the month of January.
It will also be the first look at the Warriors since their last meeting way back on November 1st. The Broncos have won 10 of the last 11 meetings the past two years and safe to say have had their fair share of breaks along the way.
I talked with John Negrin's dad David last night for an intermission feature we do all season long called "Homegrown Heroes". I found some interesting things about John:
- At grade 8 he was offered a chance to move to Europe to pursue a career in soccer. He had to make the decision between the two sports at a young age.
- John was his own agent when negotiating his NHL contract with Calgary. His dad admits he played a little hardball with the Flames before accepting.
- There were seven teams interested in him at the trade deadline including Spokane, Kelowna and Vancouver.
The full feature will run tonight in the 2nd intermission.
More tonight from the Moose Jaw Civic Center.....
He sounds excited to get started and get back to his roots. You can hear our interview tonight on the pre-game show just before the Broncos face-off with the Warriors. Catch it on the Eagle 94.1 FM starting at 6:30pm. You can also catch it on streaming www.scbroncos.com under listen live at the bottom of the page.
The Broncos take on what should be a fired up Warriors team tonight after taking an 11-1 loss to Saskatoon in their last outing.
Broncos Assistant Coach Tim Kehler addressed that Sunday night following the Broncos/Raiders game:
"It's a team that has certainly struggled here over the last number of weeks. I'm sure Hunch (Warriors Head Coach Dave Hunchak) will be playing the pride card and expect a lot from their guys. That is a team we have played well against and a building we have played well in. A lot of it is because you really need to compete hard in the small confines of the Crushed Can. I think it brings out the best in a lot of our guys."
The Broncos are trying to string some wins together after a 6-3 win over Prince Albert Sunday. They haven't won back-to-back games in the New Year and are 4-7 in the month of January.
It will also be the first look at the Warriors since their last meeting way back on November 1st. The Broncos have won 10 of the last 11 meetings the past two years and safe to say have had their fair share of breaks along the way.
I talked with John Negrin's dad David last night for an intermission feature we do all season long called "Homegrown Heroes". I found some interesting things about John:
- At grade 8 he was offered a chance to move to Europe to pursue a career in soccer. He had to make the decision between the two sports at a young age.
- John was his own agent when negotiating his NHL contract with Calgary. His dad admits he played a little hardball with the Flames before accepting.
- There were seven teams interested in him at the trade deadline including Spokane, Kelowna and Vancouver.
The full feature will run tonight in the 2nd intermission.
More tonight from the Moose Jaw Civic Center.....
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Thiessen Gets One
After entering into an altercation from the bench Sunday night in Swift Current, Prince Albert Raiders defenseman Garrett Thiessen has been suspended one game.
Thiessen intervened in a fight between the Broncos Matt Tassone and the Raiders Bryce Lamb.
It means he will miss Friday night's rematch against the Broncos in Prince Albert but will return for the 2nd half of the home and home series the next night in Swift Current.
Thiessen intervened in a fight between the Broncos Matt Tassone and the Raiders Bryce Lamb.
It means he will miss Friday night's rematch against the Broncos in Prince Albert but will return for the 2nd half of the home and home series the next night in Swift Current.
Breakfast Boys Host Challenge
The Swift Current Broncos Skills Challenge is happening Sunday February 15th between 3:30 and 5:30PM at the Credit Union i-plex and is presented by the Swift Current Mall.
The Broncos players will be split up into two teams and will be coached by Jon and Chance from the Breakfast Boys on the Eagle 94.1. The players will compete in the: hardest shot competition, fastest skater, shooting accuracy and breakaway relay. Swift Current Minor Hockey players will also be involved in the skills challenge as players from the Legionnaires, Wildcats and Raiders will compete in the events.
After the skills challenge fans can interact with the Broncos at a public skate.
Tickets for the 2009 Skills Challenge are $5 for adults and children/students get in free with a paying adult. Tickets will be sold at the door.
-------------
Just so Chance knows, I've never lost an event like this. It's always a fun afternoon although I'm going to have to come up with a few new breakaway moves. My go-tos are old and awful.
We're hoping to have the new Broncos Assistant General Manager on the air tomorrow night in Moose Jaw at some point.
Sheldon Ferguson is making his way into Swift Current from Kitchener and is set to join the team tomorrow night.
We will see how today goes.
More later....
The Broncos players will be split up into two teams and will be coached by Jon and Chance from the Breakfast Boys on the Eagle 94.1. The players will compete in the: hardest shot competition, fastest skater, shooting accuracy and breakaway relay. Swift Current Minor Hockey players will also be involved in the skills challenge as players from the Legionnaires, Wildcats and Raiders will compete in the events.
After the skills challenge fans can interact with the Broncos at a public skate.
Tickets for the 2009 Skills Challenge are $5 for adults and children/students get in free with a paying adult. Tickets will be sold at the door.
-------------
Just so Chance knows, I've never lost an event like this. It's always a fun afternoon although I'm going to have to come up with a few new breakaway moves. My go-tos are old and awful.
We're hoping to have the new Broncos Assistant General Manager on the air tomorrow night in Moose Jaw at some point.
Sheldon Ferguson is making his way into Swift Current from Kitchener and is set to join the team tomorrow night.
We will see how today goes.
More later....
Monday, January 26, 2009
Broncos Name New Assistant General Manager
Press Release:
(Swift Current SK)-- The Swift Current Broncos are pleased to announce that Sheldon Ferguson has been nam
ed as the Assistant General Manager to replace Elden Moberg.
The organization had many interested and qualified applicants for the position and chose to hire a person with an extremely strong background in both professional and junior level hockey.
General Manager and Head Coach Dean Chynoweth comments on the decision: “I am very excited about Sheldon joining the Broncos organization. It is not often you can hire a person in junior hockey with Sheldon’s credentials and accomplishments. He will be a welcomed addition to our staff and we look forward to him getting started.”
Mr. Ferguson most recently was the Director of Player Personnel/Director of Amateur Scouting for the Carolina Hurricanes from 1995-2007 where he achieved the ultimate hockey goal of winning a Stanley Cup in 2006. From 1991-95 he was Director of Scouting for the Canadian Hockey Association’s National Team and National Under 18 Teams. There he won 3 consecutive World Junior Championship Gold Medals and two Gold Medals with the Under 18 teams. He has worked with numerous WHL teams in many capacities from scouting to coaching and managing.
“I could not be more thrilled or excited to have the opportunity to work with Dean Chynoweth and the Swift Current Broncos,” said Ferguson, “I have known Dean for many years, and hold him in very high regard as a man who carries on a legacy of excellence in the game of hockey. A goal in my life that has yet to be achieved is winning a Western Hockey League championship, and I can hardly wait to get to Swift Current to work together with Dean toward that end.”
Mr. Ferguson will be arriving from Kitchener, ON and joining the organization this week.
Broncos 6 Raiders 3
A four goal third period pushed the Broncos past the weary Prince Albert Raiders 6-3 last night at the Credit Union i-plex.
Keegan Dansereau scored twice to begin the period and the home team never looked back to acquire a much needed two points.
For the Raiders, it was their third game in three nights and their fourth in five nights as they came into the contest 1-1 on the weekend. If they were tired, I didn't see it.
Emotions boiled over late in the third period as players got together in front of the Raiders bench. I've noticed over the year that fights are more likely to take place in front of a bench because no one wants to appear to be backing down in front of teammates.
In an incident sure to be reviewed by the league office today, the Raiders Garrett Thiessen jumped into an altercation from the bench between Matt Tassone and Raiders forward Bryce Lamb. Thiessen grabbed Tassone before Raiders Head Coach/GM Bruno Campese intervened and pulled Thiessen away. He should have held on, because Thiessen jumped back into the mix a 2nd time before the scrum was over.
I spoke with Matt about it post-game:
"I wasn't thinking of fighting first, and then he (Lamb) kept going so obviously I'm not going to take that. I started throwing... actually Thiessen (from the bench) was the one who took my helmet off. As Lamb fell Thiessen starting grabbing me. Last week King in Lethbridge came off the bench to fight someone - I'm pretty sure this is the same situation. On the bench or on the ice, he's third man in." - Tassone
Lost in all this was Tassone's 30th of the season on a unique back hand one-time top shelf when Mike Brown fed him a pass from the right-wing. Of all the talented forwards last season, the Broncos didn't have a 30 goal scorer in the mix. Dale Wiese led the team with 29. Actually Tassone becomes the first Bronco 30-goal man since Tyler Redenbach and Jeremy Williams both did it in the 2003-04 season.
Tassone actually finished the night with a Gordie Howe hat-trick, which he informed me was his first ever in the WHL.
Cody Eakin, Geordie Wudrick and Jordan Peddle also scored in the win. Justin Dowling added a pair of assists.
The win was a much needed two points for the Broncos who failed to get anything Friday night in a 4-3 loss to Saskatoon and an idle Saturday.
The Broncos head into Moose Jaw Wednesday to play a limping Hunch Bunch after an 11-1 loss to Saskatoon.
The Broncos also have an announcement to make later today. Come back later this morning to find out the details...
Jon
Keegan Dansereau scored twice to begin the period and the home team never looked back to acquire a much needed two points.
For the Raiders, it was their third game in three nights and their fourth in five nights as they came into the contest 1-1 on the weekend. If they were tired, I didn't see it.
Emotions boiled over late in the third period as players got together in front of the Raiders bench. I've noticed over the year that fights are more likely to take place in front of a bench because no one wants to appear to be backing down in front of teammates.
In an incident sure to be reviewed by the league office today, the Raiders Garrett Thiessen jumped into an altercation from the bench between Matt Tassone and Raiders forward Bryce Lamb. Thiessen grabbed Tassone before Raiders Head Coach/GM Bruno Campese intervened and pulled Thiessen away. He should have held on, because Thiessen jumped back into the mix a 2nd time before the scrum was over.
I spoke with Matt about it post-game:
"I wasn't thinking of fighting first, and then he (Lamb) kept going so obviously I'm not going to take that. I started throwing... actually Thiessen (from the bench) was the one who took my helmet off. As Lamb fell Thiessen starting grabbing me. Last week King in Lethbridge came off the bench to fight someone - I'm pretty sure this is the same situation. On the bench or on the ice, he's third man in." - Tassone
Lost in all this was Tassone's 30th of the season on a unique back hand one-time top shelf when Mike Brown fed him a pass from the right-wing. Of all the talented forwards last season, the Broncos didn't have a 30 goal scorer in the mix. Dale Wiese led the team with 29. Actually Tassone becomes the first Bronco 30-goal man since Tyler Redenbach and Jeremy Williams both did it in the 2003-04 season.
Tassone actually finished the night with a Gordie Howe hat-trick, which he informed me was his first ever in the WHL.
Cody Eakin, Geordie Wudrick and Jordan Peddle also scored in the win. Justin Dowling added a pair of assists.
The win was a much needed two points for the Broncos who failed to get anything Friday night in a 4-3 loss to Saskatoon and an idle Saturday.
The Broncos head into Moose Jaw Wednesday to play a limping Hunch Bunch after an 11-1 loss to Saskatoon.
The Broncos also have an announcement to make later today. Come back later this morning to find out the details...
Jon
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Broncos/Raiders and Personal Thoughts
I admit I'm a little upset this morning at some of the things I've been reading/hearing from Bronco "fans".
Some of these anonymous message boarders are getting a little scathing and carried away at this team's recent run.
Some of these posters don't even live in our city and maybe see the club twice a year... yet that makes them an expert on coaching, line combos, trades, and what food the club should have in the concession stands?
This team is playing hard, and is in the midst of it's toughest part of the schedule.
The Broncos have played the two hottest teams in the WHL right now in back to back home games. They had the Wheat Kings on the ropes but couldn't finish, they battled the league's best road team tooth and nail Friday night in the Saskatoon Blades and just came up short.
They are playing well enough to win, but not getting the results.
Last year at this time the club was in the midst of winning 10 straight games. The breaks they were getting then are the same breaks that are going the other way now. I've noticed over the years these things have a way of evening out.
Reason to panic? Not by a long shot.
Everyone is entitled to an opinion but when that opinion is an unfounded rant based more on a personal attack than I think it's wrong.
Some people just like to watch it burn.
These people shouldn't be taken seriously.
---------------
It's a big one tonight though.
The Broncos welcome the Prince Albert Raiders to the Credit Union i-plex to wrap up the weekend.
The Raiders will be playing their third game in as many nights and are coming off a 4-3 win in Moose Jaw despite being outshot 38-22 in the contest.
The win was big for the Raiders who lost a home ice battle Friday night to the Edmonton Oil KIngs 4-1.
The Broncos have slipped to 6th after being idle Saturday night. They have to get it going and it has to start tonight.
We're on the air at 6:30pm with the pre-game show, 7pm play-by-play.
----------
It was a treat to do the Shaw TV game last night in Saskatoon. TV isn't my thing and having your eyes glued to a replay monitor was something I had to get used to.
The Shaw crew were professionals all the way and took the time to answer my questions. By the 2nd period I was having fun and was almost disappointed when the game was over.
Thanks to Wray, Tara, Dave and everyone in the truck for their help last night.
At times you would see something behind the play, contact the truck to see if they had a shot of it. Within seconds it was cued up and ready to roll on the next whistle. Impressive.
Also, thanks to Mooner in Red Deer who has done a ton of games for Shaw. He sent me a nice note before the game. Class act.
Have a good Sunday....
Jon
Friday, January 23, 2009
Fines, Suspensions and one Gag Order / Broncos and Blades Tonight
The Western Hockey League handed down the punishment today following that wild ending in Lethbridge Wednesday night between the Hurricanes and Tigers.
Brawl
Hurricanes Head Coach Michael Dyck has been handed a 5 game suspension, Canes' forward Dwight King gets 5 games as well, and forward Craig Orfino 3 games. Tigers defenceman Matt McCue was given a 2 game suspension.
You can assume Dyck's suspension would be for not controlling his bench when Dwight King and Craig Orfino jumped over to participate in the last minute brawl following a Kyle Beach empty-netter which included a little showboating before putting the game away.
After watching the tape several times the last while I thought the Hurricanes colorman was way out of line in his depiction of the events on the ice. There's a level of accuracy you owe to your listeners and abusing that responsibility is wrong.
Gregg Drinnan over on his blog gdrinnan.blogspot.com is reporting the Hurricanes radio station has removed the colorman from the broadcast.
Nowadays you are no longer just broadcasting to your listeners in your 100 mile broadcast range. You are streaming on the internet and webcasting across the league to the other team's fans, friends and family. There's a certain standard you must adhere to.
------------------------
The Broncos host the best road team in the WHL tonight. The Saskatoon Blades come in with an impressive 18-3-1-0 record away from Credit Union Center.
The Broncos have taken a " pick yourself up, dust yourself off and get back in the saddle " attitude following the 5-4 loss to Brandon Tuesday night in which the Broncos held a 4-1 2nd period lead.
The Broncos are expecting a ittle help on the injury front in regards to Ryan Molle and Taylor Vause coming back. However captain Derek Claffey could more than likely miss tonight's game.
We're on the air at 7pm wth the pre-game show. Former Bronco Dale Weise will be our guest from Hartford.
Play-by-play at 7:30pm
-------------
I love curling.
I actually really do.
With that said I've been asked to handle the play-by-play for the SaskPower Provincial Scotties Semi-final and Final for a Sask-Tel Max production next Sunday (which also happens to be SuperBowl XLIII)
Not sure what I'm getting myself into but I have trouble saying no sometimes. All I need is a good colorman to get me through.... know anyone locally? I'm thinking Jeff Chambers would do a good job.
Dare I say I'm excited?
Jon
Brawl
Hurricanes Head Coach Michael Dyck has been handed a 5 game suspension, Canes' forward Dwight King gets 5 games as well, and forward Craig Orfino 3 games. Tigers defenceman Matt McCue was given a 2 game suspension.
You can assume Dyck's suspension would be for not controlling his bench when Dwight King and Craig Orfino jumped over to participate in the last minute brawl following a Kyle Beach empty-netter which included a little showboating before putting the game away.
After watching the tape several times the last while I thought the Hurricanes colorman was way out of line in his depiction of the events on the ice. There's a level of accuracy you owe to your listeners and abusing that responsibility is wrong.
Gregg Drinnan over on his blog gdrinnan.blogspot.com is reporting the Hurricanes radio station has removed the colorman from the broadcast.
Nowadays you are no longer just broadcasting to your listeners in your 100 mile broadcast range. You are streaming on the internet and webcasting across the league to the other team's fans, friends and family. There's a certain standard you must adhere to.
------------------------
The Broncos host the best road team in the WHL tonight. The Saskatoon Blades come in with an impressive 18-3-1-0 record away from Credit Union Center.
The Broncos have taken a " pick yourself up, dust yourself off and get back in the saddle " attitude following the 5-4 loss to Brandon Tuesday night in which the Broncos held a 4-1 2nd period lead.
The Broncos are expecting a ittle help on the injury front in regards to Ryan Molle and Taylor Vause coming back. However captain Derek Claffey could more than likely miss tonight's game.
We're on the air at 7pm wth the pre-game show. Former Bronco Dale Weise will be our guest from Hartford.
Play-by-play at 7:30pm
-------------
I love curling.
I actually really do.
With that said I've been asked to handle the play-by-play for the SaskPower Provincial Scotties Semi-final and Final for a Sask-Tel Max production next Sunday (which also happens to be SuperBowl XLIII)
Not sure what I'm getting myself into but I have trouble saying no sometimes. All I need is a good colorman to get me through.... know anyone locally? I'm thinking Jeff Chambers would do a good job.
Dare I say I'm excited?
Jon
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Check It Out...
Here's the story Medicine Hat TV did on the 2010 Ford World Curling Championships being denied by the Medicine Hat Tigers and being picked up by Swift Current.
Jon
Jon
World Curling's First Choice Was Medicine Hat
Big story out of Medicine Hat regarding the 2010 Ford World Curling Championships.
The event, which will be hosted out of Swift Current in March of 2010 initially was going to Medicine Hat - until the Tigers blocked it from coming
They stopped it for the same concerns the Broncos have/had, that it would remove them from the building for the 1st round of playoffs.
The Medicine Hat News did a big story on it. Unfortunately, there isn't an online link available. I saw the CHAT TV story out of the 'Hat on it today, but no link.
I'll post it when I get it.
Now, what happens next year if the Broncos and Tigers meet in the opening round of the playoffs?
It's interesting stuff.
Jon
The event, which will be hosted out of Swift Current in March of 2010 initially was going to Medicine Hat - until the Tigers blocked it from coming
They stopped it for the same concerns the Broncos have/had, that it would remove them from the building for the 1st round of playoffs.
The Medicine Hat News did a big story on it. Unfortunately, there isn't an online link available. I saw the CHAT TV story out of the 'Hat on it today, but no link.
I'll post it when I get it.
Now, what happens next year if the Broncos and Tigers meet in the opening round of the playoffs?
It's interesting stuff.
Jon
Monday, January 19, 2009
Mondays...
Finally a chance to blog after a hectic Monday...
commentary for Wray Morrison.
The Broncos had their annual team pictures today as they took the classic group photo and then some fun and unique individual shots.
Christian from Shaw and myself were down to tape our weekly show The Inside Edge while the cameras were clicking.
Work in a phone call to the WHL office for show content for the WHL This Week and not to mention the 6-9am Eagle morning show and the Monday morning sports run on four different radio stations... I'm happy today is over.
It isn't hard work by any means... I've done hard work. Radio isn't hard. Don't let anyone ever convince you it is. Stressful yes, and lots of hours at times, but hard? No.
I always wonder why people leave this business because they think the grass is greener. Nine times out of ten they're back on the station's doorstep looking to get their old gig back.
The pay could be better. But, it is what you make it.
I digress.
I have a friend in town who scouts for the New York Islanders. We met at the NHL draft in Carolina back in 2004 when he was working for Red Line. Good guy. He's in town and was supposed to give me a buzz tonight. I didn't hear from him so I thought I would take care of the blog before tomorrow's gameday got busy.
The Broncos host the Brandon Wheat Kings Tuesday night in the 5th meeting of the season. The Broncos always seem to see Brandon's best games. They play well against the Broncos and rarely take a period off.
They are well coached and might have the best top three lines in the conference. The Broncos are also 0-4 against this season and quite frankly are getting sick of just falling short.
When you think Wheat Kings, you think offense. But against the Broncos it hasn't been the Wheaties' meal ticket. They've done it with strong defense and stellar goaltending. In their last two visits, James Priestner and Andrew Hayes have been nothing short of amazing in a 2-1 and 5-1 victories.
There's a belief the Wheat Kings aren't very deep on the back-end after Aulie/Robak. In my experiences it hasn't been the case. Players like Erb, Bestland, and Melnychuk have played well against the Broncos. Melnychuk is one of the most improved defenseman year-over-year in the WHL in my opinion.
The Wheat Kings have points in 13 straight games (11-0-2-0) and if not for a relentless Saskatoon Blades squad, would be leading the division.
As for the Broncos, the acquisition of John Negrin and Michael Stickland gives the team a top six forward group and top four defensive unit comparable with anyone in the league right now.
Broncos fans are going to like what they see from Negrin tomorrow night. He's worth the Tuesday night ticket.
In fact, it will be our fans first look at the four new players acquired at the trade deadline. I don't think fans will see G Morgan Clark though... unless they get their in time for warm-up. I'm thinking Travis Yonkman will get the start against a potent Brandon club.
We're on the air tomorrow night at 7pm with the pre-game show, 7:30pm play-by-play.
---------------
On a side note, I've been asked by Shaw TV to help out with their Saturday night broadcast in Saskatoon when the Blades host the Edmonton Oil Kings. I'll be doing the color
commentary for Wray Morrison. Although my TV experience is minimal, I'm excited for it. I wonder how far down the depth chart they had to go before they called me?
It's been cleared by my employer GWR and it just happens to fit into the Broncos schedule.
More tomorrow if I find the time....
Jon
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Troubleshooting
Apparently the streaming for Bronco broadcasts is still not working for some.
If it has worked for you this weekend, drop me a comment and what browser you were using. If it didn't work, please let me know as well.
We will do some testing this week.
I used the sc.broncos.com link and everything was working fine for the Fri/Sat games.
Thanks,
Jon
If it has worked for you this weekend, drop me a comment and what browser you were using. If it didn't work, please let me know as well.
We will do some testing this week.
I used the sc.broncos.com link and everything was working fine for the Fri/Sat games.
Thanks,
Jon
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Vote for Humboldt
The good folks in Humboldt, SK are rallying the troops in a bid to land Kraft Hockeyville 2009.
There is an online voting process at cbcsports.ca/hockeyville. Voting is open until 11pm Sunday night.
The Swift Current Broncos and Humboldt Broncos of the SJHL are cousins of sorts and were affiliated for many years.
Humboldt is a half hour drive from my hometown and it's where I watched for first junior hockey game as the Broncos hosted the Yorkton Terriers.
Give Humboldt your support!
Jon
There is an online voting process at cbcsports.ca/hockeyville. Voting is open until 11pm Sunday night.
The Swift Current Broncos and Humboldt Broncos of the SJHL are cousins of sorts and were affiliated for many years.
Humboldt is a half hour drive from my hometown and it's where I watched for first junior hockey game as the Broncos hosted the Yorkton Terriers.
Give Humboldt your support!
Jon
Broncos Their Own Worst Enemy
With all due respect to the Lethbridge Hurricanes – a talented bunch in their own right, it was the Swift Current Broncos who beat themselves in a Friday night tilt at the old Sportsplex.
The Broncos did everything in their power on special teams to make sure the Hurricanes would pick up the win on home ice. Nine ‘Cane powerplays, three power-play goals against, 0 / 6 on powerplay and a shorthanded goal against in a 4-2 loss.
Not only were the Broncos 0/6 in the man-advantage, they managed to take three penalties in the Hurricanes offensive zone while on the PP.
For me it wasn’t the penalties, it was the types of penalties. Not only that, it was where they were taking place on the ice.
On a positive note, 5-on-5 the Broncos were pretty solid.
Michael Stickland scored his first goal as a Bronco to even the game 1-1 in the first just after Ashton opened the scoring on the PP. Justin Dowling later scored a highlight reel goal as he danced around a ‘Canes defenseman and then beat Juha Metsola on the 2nd opportunity off a rebound.
Metsola was good too. He accounted for 29 saves and some star recognition.
The Broncos were dealt a blow before the game when captain Derek Claffey was scratched after warm-up with a lower body injury.
D Joel Rogers missed most of the 2nd period while he was getting stitched up after a puck rolled up his stick and into his mouth. The damage was nine – four stitches outside the mouth and five in.
Tonight, it’s round three of the Chynoweth Cup in Cranbrook. Just a week ago the two teams hooked up on a four player swap.
The Ice are coming off two impressive wins over the Calgary Hitmen.
We’re on the air at 7:30pm with the pre-game show, 8pm play-by-play.
The internet streaming was up and running tonight. Anyone have any problems? Drop me a comment if you have some streaming feedback.
Jon
The Broncos did everything in their power on special teams to make sure the Hurricanes would pick up the win on home ice. Nine ‘Cane powerplays, three power-play goals against, 0 / 6 on powerplay and a shorthanded goal against in a 4-2 loss.
Not only were the Broncos 0/6 in the man-advantage, they managed to take three penalties in the Hurricanes offensive zone while on the PP.
For me it wasn’t the penalties, it was the types of penalties. Not only that, it was where they were taking place on the ice.
On a positive note, 5-on-5 the Broncos were pretty solid.
Michael Stickland scored his first goal as a Bronco to even the game 1-1 in the first just after Ashton opened the scoring on the PP. Justin Dowling later scored a highlight reel goal as he danced around a ‘Canes defenseman and then beat Juha Metsola on the 2nd opportunity off a rebound.
Metsola was good too. He accounted for 29 saves and some star recognition.
The Broncos were dealt a blow before the game when captain Derek Claffey was scratched after warm-up with a lower body injury.
D Joel Rogers missed most of the 2nd period while he was getting stitched up after a puck rolled up his stick and into his mouth. The damage was nine – four stitches outside the mouth and five in.
Tonight, it’s round three of the Chynoweth Cup in Cranbrook. Just a week ago the two teams hooked up on a four player swap.
The Ice are coming off two impressive wins over the Calgary Hitmen.
We’re on the air at 7:30pm with the pre-game show, 8pm play-by-play.
The internet streaming was up and running tonight. Anyone have any problems? Drop me a comment if you have some streaming feedback.
Jon
Friday, January 16, 2009
TSN Write up on Eakin
Cody Eakin's draft stock is on the rise in this tsn.ca piece.
It's funny how the author talks about it being tough to get noticed in the CHL's smallest market. Apparently he forgot to mention the Broncos (along with Kelowna) had the most players drafted at last year's NHL Draft in Ottawa with four.
It seems to me like they're finding our players just fine.
But... what do you expect.
Jon
It's funny how the author talks about it being tough to get noticed in the CHL's smallest market. Apparently he forgot to mention the Broncos (along with Kelowna) had the most players drafted at last year's NHL Draft in Ottawa with four.
It seems to me like they're finding our players just fine.
But... what do you expect.
Jon
Captain Claffey
Press release:
Swift Current Broncos Head Coach and General Manager Dean Chynoweth announced the players wearing captain letters for the remainder of the 2008-09 Season.
Broncos’ defenseman Derek Claffey will be the Captain for the remainder of the year. Claffey, 19 years old, from Red Deer Alberta was named October captain as the Broncos have rotated the captaincy so far this campaign.
Chynoweth says: “Derek has been our most consistent competitor from the start of the season, that along with his level headed thinking make him the ideal choice to be our Captain for the remainder of the year.”
The assistant captains are: Matt Tassone, Cody Eakin and John Negrin.
Chynoweth adds: “In rotating the C’s and A’s for the start of the year it gave the players an opportunity to be rewarded by the coaching staff for their efforts. Now that the trade deadline has passed and this will be our team for the remainder of the season, I think it is important that we have a set group that will lead us in the 2nd half.
Each of these players have shown over the first half whether it be here with our team, or in John’s case in Kootenay, that they are prepared to take the necessary steps for our team to have success. We will need this group to grow and the others that have worn letters during the year will also be an important part of this group.”
Tassone is in his 3rd season with the Broncos and is second on the team with 24 goals. Matt was the December captain.
Eakin, fresh off player of the game honors at the CHL Top Prospects Game, is in his second season with the Broncos. He has 16 goals and 21 points in 28 games this season.
Negrin, recently acquired from the Kootenay Ice at the Trade Deadline, is in 4th WHL season and was a member of Team WHL at the ADT Canada/Russia Challenge in November
Swift Current Broncos Head Coach and General Manager Dean Chynoweth announced the players wearing captain letters for the remainder of the 2008-09 Season.
Broncos’ defenseman Derek Claffey will be the Captain for the remainder of the year. Claffey, 19 years old, from Red Deer Alberta was named October captain as the Broncos have rotated the captaincy so far this campaign.
Chynoweth says: “Derek has been our most consistent competitor from the start of the season, that along with his level headed thinking make him the ideal choice to be our Captain for the remainder of the year.”
The assistant captains are: Matt Tassone, Cody Eakin and John Negrin.
Chynoweth adds: “In rotating the C’s and A’s for the start of the year it gave the players an opportunity to be rewarded by the coaching staff for their efforts. Now that the trade deadline has passed and this will be our team for the remainder of the season, I think it is important that we have a set group that will lead us in the 2nd half.
Each of these players have shown over the first half whether it be here with our team, or in John’s case in Kootenay, that they are prepared to take the necessary steps for our team to have success. We will need this group to grow and the others that have worn letters during the year will also be an important part of this group.”
Tassone is in his 3rd season with the Broncos and is second on the team with 24 goals. Matt was the December captain.
Eakin, fresh off player of the game honors at the CHL Top Prospects Game, is in his second season with the Broncos. He has 16 goals and 21 points in 28 games this season.
Negrin, recently acquired from the Kootenay Ice at the Trade Deadline, is in 4th WHL season and was a member of Team WHL at the ADT Canada/Russia Challenge in November
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Old Teammates Set to Battle
There will be a lot familiar faces Saturday night in Cranbrook as the Broncos and the Kootenay Ice battle just a week after a four player swap.The Broncos will have John Negrin and Michael Stickland in the line-up while the ice now feature James Martin and Christian Magnus.
Leading up to the game, I spoke with Kootenay Ice General Manager Jeff Chynoweth on the trade.
On the two players they acquire from the Broncos:
"We needed a defenseman back in the deal and James Martin is a big defenseman, he's a little raw because he hasn't played a lot this year. He's a 2nd round bantam pick in 2006. That will give us four 1991 born defenseman. That was one of the key things in the deal. We are going to lose two - 20 year old defenseman and obviously John Negrin so we needed to get a defenseman who has a little WHL experience.
We looked at Magnus as a guy in the 1992 age group that our scouting staff had ranked 1st in Saskatchewan in the 2007 bantam draft. He was sort of the nugget in the deal that really turned it and made us consider making the transaction.
It's funny... I know on the Broncos side they think they gave up too much but on the other end I think the Kootenay organization doesn't think they got enough. Going into it we knew what we wanted to get and I think this deal serves both teams very well"
On trying to get back in the "Chynoweth Cup" season series being down 2-0:
" Well isn't it 0-0-1-1? Or how do you put it with a shoot-out and overtime loss? I think my mom is the only one who's happy because everyone has points in both games we played each other this year. Swift Current has a very good hockey team, they are getting all their players back from injuries and I think in the 2nd half here they are going to be a team that will be very tough to beat."
---------------------
The Broncos begin the weekend swing in Lethbridge against a re-energised Hurricanes team following a pair of wins in Moose Jaw and Prince Albert.
The 'Canes rallied back last night scoring two goals in the final minute to eventually beat the Raiders 4-3 in a shootout.
It's the third meeting of the season between the two teams. The season series is 1-1.
We're on the air at 7:30pm with the pre-game show, 8pm with the play-by-play. You can hear the entire Jeff Chynoweth interview on our pre-game show.
Broncos F Cody Eakin will also re-live the Top Prospects experience including his two goal performance in a Team Orr 6-1 win over Team Cherry.
Also, I've been told our Internet streaming is up and running again. We missed a few games with some difficulties but our engineers tell me we are back online.
Jon
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Eakin Shines
Broncos forward Cody Eakin capped a great couple days in Oshawa by scoring two goals tonight in leading Team Orr to a 6-1 win over Team Cherry at the CHL/NHL Top Prospects game.
Eakin was playing on a line with World Junior stand-out John Tavares. In the 2nd period, Tavares set-up Eakin on a nifty 2-on-1 for his 2nd goal.
For his efforts, Eakin was named Player of the Game for Team Orr.
Can't help but think his draft stock is on the rise following a strong showing.
He will rejoin the team in time for Friday's game in Lethbridge.
Eakin was playing on a line with World Junior stand-out John Tavares. In the 2nd period, Tavares set-up Eakin on a nifty 2-on-1 for his 2nd goal.
For his efforts, Eakin was named Player of the Game for Team Orr.
Can't help but think his draft stock is on the rise following a strong showing.
He will rejoin the team in time for Friday's game in Lethbridge.
Former Bronco Prospect Mistelbacher Dead at 19
Shocking news this morning.Bronco bantam drafted player Jordan Mistelbacher has died. The Broncos selected him in teh 4th round of the 2005 bantam draft. He was traded to Everett two years ago as part of the Eric Doyle/Dane Crowley deal.
You can read about it here.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
The kid can scoot....
I mentioned earlier about Cody Eakin hopefully partaking in the CHL/NHL Top Prospects Skills Comeptition tonight in Oshawa.
I was thinking he may have a shot in the fastest skating event.... and boy did he ever.
Eakin apparently finished 2nd, just 2/100ths of a second behind the winner Landon Ferraro of the Red Deer Rebels.
Ferraro posted the fastest lap at 14.oo9 according to the CHL website. Eakin gave it a good run though. I hope he performs well in the game tomorrow night which will feature the top 40 NHL draft prospects from the Canadian Hockey League.
It's on Rogers Sportsnet....
I was thinking he may have a shot in the fastest skating event.... and boy did he ever.
Eakin apparently finished 2nd, just 2/100ths of a second behind the winner Landon Ferraro of the Red Deer Rebels.
Ferraro posted the fastest lap at 14.oo9 according to the CHL website. Eakin gave it a good run though. I hope he performs well in the game tomorrow night which will feature the top 40 NHL draft prospects from the Canadian Hockey League.
It's on Rogers Sportsnet....
Practice Pics
F Michael Stickland gets acquainted with his new surroundings
Newly acquired goaltender Morgan Clark gets in a few pucks
Travis Yonkman takes a break
Monday, January 12, 2009
Negrin, Stickland, Darragh quotes and more...
Had a chance this weekend to catch up with three of the four newest Broncos after a flurry of trades from "Deadline Dean". Think that could stick? We have Trader Bob in Tri-City, Rodeo Roy in Lethbridge....maybe someone else has a better one?
Defenseman John Negrin on the late deadline deal that brought him to the Broncos:
"It's exciting, I think with Kootenay they were going with a younger team so I had a feeling. My G.M. had talked to me and let me know that there was a possibility I would be moved. Obviously it was a late deal... I actually thought I was going to be staying in Kootenay and then I got the call just before the deadline and they told me I was coming to Swift Current. I'm excited, it's a good team and it should be fun."
On Michael Stickland who was also traded to the Broncos from Kootenay:
"Sticky is a very talented player. I think his #1 thing is his speed. In a straight line he might be the fastest guy in the league. He's a tough kid, he lays the body. He's smart and and definitely very fast."
On how he wants to close off his junior career:
" I think every player wants to win a WHL Championship and the Memorial Cup. I think it's a lot more possible here (than in Kootenay). (The Broncos) have a good team and I'm excited to be here and try and help the team."
--------
F Michael Stickland on the trade to the Broncos:
"There was a rumour about Negs going somewhere and I think he knew that. He had talked about that with Jeff(Chynoweth). It was pretty evident that he was going to go somewhere and we figured it might be some sort of a package deal. It just happened that I was the guy included in the deal. Jeff explained it as it could have been anybody but just in this case it included me."
On being re-united with Red Deer Minor Hockey teammate and Broncos captain Derek Claffey:
"As soon as I found out I was coming to Swift Current, I got a hold of Claff and I was excited to come and see him. I know that Swift Current was always a hard-working team to play against so obviously I was excited to be coming here and have a shot at not only making the playoffs but making a run deep into the playoffs."
On teammate John Negrin's game:
" Johnny is a well-rounded player. He can be that guy jumping up in the rush or he can be steady eddy at home. He can be on the powerplay which he quarterbacked for us in Kootenay. He's a good puck-mover, shoots the puck well and makes excellent decisions in our own end and makes a good first pass."
On his new linemates of Geordie Wudrick and Cody Eakin:
" I was excited when Dean told me that I would play with Eakin and Wudrick. I know they are both talented hockey players. I'm just hoping I can keep up, figure out the systems and hope that we click."
-------
The Broncos acquired 6'4, 200lb Liam Darragh in a swap for Matt Ius. Here's a transcript of a pre-game interview I had with Liam Saturday night in Medicine Hat.
On the Thursday night trade:
"It was a quick turnaround. We were on the road and just finished dinner in Kamloops and got called into the coaches hotel room. They told me I was traded and by early morning I was on a flight out to Regina. It was a long day of travelling, I met the guys at the rink and it's been great so far."
On what he knew about the Broncos coming in:
"I recognized a few guys from basically just when we played them just before Christmas. I don't know a whole lot... I've heard some things from a Bronco scout in (my hometown) of Quesnel, BC Harley Love. I'm enjoying it so far."
On fighting Colten Teubert of the Regina Pats in his Broncos debut:
"I kind of saw it coming. I guess I tried to hit one of their guys around the blue line and I guess he thought it was a bit questionable and thought he should step in and kind of jumped me. I ended up coming back and got a few shots in both ways. It's good to get the first one out of the way."
--------------
Tomorrow I will have Dean's thoughts...
Jon
Defenseman John Negrin on the late deadline deal that brought him to the Broncos:
"It's exciting, I think with Kootenay they were going with a younger team so I had a feeling. My G.M. had talked to me and let me know that there was a possibility I would be moved. Obviously it was a late deal... I actually thought I was going to be staying in Kootenay and then I got the call just before the deadline and they told me I was coming to Swift Current. I'm excited, it's a good team and it should be fun."
On Michael Stickland who was also traded to the Broncos from Kootenay:
"Sticky is a very talented player. I think his #1 thing is his speed. In a straight line he might be the fastest guy in the league. He's a tough kid, he lays the body. He's smart and and definitely very fast."
On how he wants to close off his junior career:
" I think every player wants to win a WHL Championship and the Memorial Cup. I think it's a lot more possible here (than in Kootenay). (The Broncos) have a good team and I'm excited to be here and try and help the team."
--------
F Michael Stickland on the trade to the Broncos:
"There was a rumour about Negs going somewhere and I think he knew that. He had talked about that with Jeff(Chynoweth). It was pretty evident that he was going to go somewhere and we figured it might be some sort of a package deal. It just happened that I was the guy included in the deal. Jeff explained it as it could have been anybody but just in this case it included me."
On being re-united with Red Deer Minor Hockey teammate and Broncos captain Derek Claffey:
"As soon as I found out I was coming to Swift Current, I got a hold of Claff and I was excited to come and see him. I know that Swift Current was always a hard-working team to play against so obviously I was excited to be coming here and have a shot at not only making the playoffs but making a run deep into the playoffs."
On teammate John Negrin's game:
" Johnny is a well-rounded player. He can be that guy jumping up in the rush or he can be steady eddy at home. He can be on the powerplay which he quarterbacked for us in Kootenay. He's a good puck-mover, shoots the puck well and makes excellent decisions in our own end and makes a good first pass."
On his new linemates of Geordie Wudrick and Cody Eakin:
" I was excited when Dean told me that I would play with Eakin and Wudrick. I know they are both talented hockey players. I'm just hoping I can keep up, figure out the systems and hope that we click."
-------
The Broncos acquired 6'4, 200lb Liam Darragh in a swap for Matt Ius. Here's a transcript of a pre-game interview I had with Liam Saturday night in Medicine Hat.
On the Thursday night trade:
"It was a quick turnaround. We were on the road and just finished dinner in Kamloops and got called into the coaches hotel room. They told me I was traded and by early morning I was on a flight out to Regina. It was a long day of travelling, I met the guys at the rink and it's been great so far."
On what he knew about the Broncos coming in:
"I recognized a few guys from basically just when we played them just before Christmas. I don't know a whole lot... I've heard some things from a Bronco scout in (my hometown) of Quesnel, BC Harley Love. I'm enjoying it so far."
On fighting Colten Teubert of the Regina Pats in his Broncos debut:
"I kind of saw it coming. I guess I tried to hit one of their guys around the blue line and I guess he thought it was a bit questionable and thought he should step in and kind of jumped me. I ended up coming back and got a few shots in both ways. It's good to get the first one out of the way."
--------------
Tomorrow I will have Dean's thoughts...
Jon
Eakin & Rogers Crack Mid-Term Rankings
Bronco forward Cody Eakin and defenseman Joel Rogers are listed in the annual NHL Central Scouting Mid Term Rankings.
Eakin checks in at #52nd ranked skater in North America while Joel Rogers is at #138.
Here's the complete look at the rankings.
Eakin checks in at #52nd ranked skater in North America while Joel Rogers is at #138.
Here's the complete look at the rankings.
Eakin Headed to Top Prospects Game
Broncos 17 year-old forward Cody Eakin departed after last night's game and flew out this morning for Oshawa, ON for the annual CHL/NHL Top Prospects game. The days leading up also includes a skills competition. Here's hoping Cody gets a chance to compete in the fastest skater event so he can turn some heads down there.
I have all sorts of audio on all the trades the Broncos have made including player reaction. I hope to post some of it later today.
Enjoy the week,
Jon
I have all sorts of audio on all the trades the Broncos have made including player reaction. I hope to post some of it later today.
Enjoy the week,
Jon
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Gameday in Calgary / Trade Thoughts / Streaming Problems
The Broncos arrived in Calgary about 20 minutes before the Hitmen did last night. Calgary was making their way in from Cranbrook following a rare loss. The Broncos came rolling in from the 'Hat following a 5-1 defeat.
I can tell you the trade deadline was on a lot of the players minds entering last night's game. One of the key players admitted to me before the game that he got an hour's sleep the night before because he was worried about what the next day would bring.
Medicine Hat can play with any team in this league with their full line-up. They are fast enough and have a decent group of veteran defense that can get them through. Oh, and they are very well coached too.
New Broncos John Negrin #7 and Michael Stickland #26 will join the team today and make their Bronco debuts tonight. I would also expect G Morgan Clark to at least get some consideration to start this game in goal after two games in two nights for Yonkman.
We're on the air with the pre-game show at 5:30pm, play-by-play at 6pm.
-----------------------------
In what was an immensely busy day for the Broncos including Head Coach / GM Dean Chynoweth who in the end stole the show at the deadline with five deals. Four players out, four players in and five draft picks changing hands.
I gave my thoughts on the first three deals so I'll weigh in on the two made on deadline day.
Mark Guggenberger to Kelowna for a Conditional 5th round bantam pick:
There is more to this trade than any fan will know. For what 'Berger provided on the ice in his one full year of service, a conditional 5th rounder doesn't seem like all that much.
The Broncos return in this trade is also poised to increase the longer Guggenberger is a Rocket as per the "conditional status"of the pick.
The Broncos acquired him from Portland for a 3rd round pick in an almost "last chance" scenario. They got some great performances from him over the year, he stole some games and played extremely well. They turn around and move him for a 5th one year later.
It's sort of ironic that 'Berger's debut with the Broncos was against the Rockets - a 4-0 shutout performance to boot.
'Berger is a good one and has the potential to be a good pro. But he will have to stay focused.
This also gives him a chance to be a #1 guy. It's a great opportunity with a great looking team.
Good luck Mark, I'll be watching and wishing you the best.
Martin, Magnus, 2nd round 2010, 4th 2010 bantam picks to Kootenay for D John Negrin and F Michael Stickland:
I arrived at the rink yesterday just as this was being made official. I watched as both Christan and James went back on the bus to grab their belongings and say good-bye to their teammates. It was the harsh reality of the deadline. This isn't hockey cards we're talking about it's people and individuals.
James was ok with everything. He's a mature 17 year-old and nothing seems to rattle him. Christian on the other hand looked like a deer in the headlights. Shock was written all over his face.
I had a chance to talk to them both. I told them they are going to a good organization with great, supportive fans and a beautiful facility. I told them Cranbrook reminds me of Swift Current in many ways and that they will fit in fine.
They laughed they were going from one Chynoweth club to another.
This trade is generating a lot of talk it seems from Bronco fans/bashers. All the haters sure come out of the woodwork. Then there are others who in one day go from "sell the farm" to "we can win the conference". It really is enough to make your head spin.
Let's break down this trade. The Broncos give up the 16 year-old Magnus who was having a hard time getting into the line-up. He wasn't a top six forward and he wasn't a bang and crash player either. For the Broncos, they must have struggled to see where he was going to fit in. The Broncos will only lose one forward next season (Dansereau) and have some forwards in the system they want to take a good look at. Magnus was deemed expendable.
James Martin was a 17 year-old defenseman that showed promise but was seemingly falling a little bit on the depth chart. With the emergence of 16 year-old Jordan Evans, the much improved play of 17 year-old Joel Rogers, just one 18 year-old in Andrew Hewett and now four 19 year-old d-men plus an over-age in McAvoy, the Broncos blueline was set.
James should get a good look and opportunity in Cranbrook.
From a personality standpoint, James and Christian were two of my favorites. They will be solid citizens for the Kootenay Ice. The Ice showed interest in the two players and now get a chance to work with them.
It's funny to read some stuff out there. It seems the value of these two players has sky-rocketed ever since they were traded. Funny how that works.
Two good kids. Good luck.
The Broncos and the Ice meet in six days in Cranbrook as well. That will also add something extra to this deal.
In return...
The Broncos get another 19 year-old PP defenseman who is big and skates well. He's already signed by the Calgary Flames which means his chances of being back with the Broncos next season would be slim.
He represented Team WHL in Swift Current for the ADT Canada / Russia Challenge and the Broncos are really excited about his ability. He plays in all situations and instantly becomes a go-to guy.
In Michael Stickland, they get a hard-working, gritty forward who can score. The 19 year-old is a leader and the Broncos have had their eye on him for some time. His chances of returning for a 20 year-old season is also very high.
Conclusion:
This team has made themselves better today without taking a major hit to their future plans. I thought Guggenberger would be the guy in goal next season. But with NHL teams knocking on his door and an ability to lose sight of the big picture, the Broncos weren't going to gamble.
Next year's team looks really solid too. The core of this team is still at the 17 year-old age group and the Broncos will return several key elements including a veteran, battle-hardened defense.
Dean broke down all the trades in our pre-game show last night. I will transcribe his thoughts tomorrow on the blog.
Onward and upward.
----------
We are presently having some online streaming problems of our broadcast and we are looking into at the station. I can assure you we are working on it but a solution won't likely be reached until the games next weekend.
We apologize to Bronco fans everywhere and to the players friends and family.
Internet streaming isn't the business we're into at the Eagle 94.1 FM but we understand we have an obligation to provide this.
Hang in there, we will be back soon.
Jon
I can tell you the trade deadline was on a lot of the players minds entering last night's game. One of the key players admitted to me before the game that he got an hour's sleep the night before because he was worried about what the next day would bring.
Medicine Hat can play with any team in this league with their full line-up. They are fast enough and have a decent group of veteran defense that can get them through. Oh, and they are very well coached too.
New Broncos John Negrin #7 and Michael Stickland #26 will join the team today and make their Bronco debuts tonight. I would also expect G Morgan Clark to at least get some consideration to start this game in goal after two games in two nights for Yonkman.
We're on the air with the pre-game show at 5:30pm, play-by-play at 6pm.
-----------------------------
In what was an immensely busy day for the Broncos including Head Coach / GM Dean Chynoweth who in the end stole the show at the deadline with five deals. Four players out, four players in and five draft picks changing hands.
I gave my thoughts on the first three deals so I'll weigh in on the two made on deadline day.
Mark Guggenberger to Kelowna for a Conditional 5th round bantam pick:
There is more to this trade than any fan will know. For what 'Berger provided on the ice in his one full year of service, a conditional 5th rounder doesn't seem like all that much.
The Broncos return in this trade is also poised to increase the longer Guggenberger is a Rocket as per the "conditional status"of the pick.
The Broncos acquired him from Portland for a 3rd round pick in an almost "last chance" scenario. They got some great performances from him over the year, he stole some games and played extremely well. They turn around and move him for a 5th one year later.
It's sort of ironic that 'Berger's debut with the Broncos was against the Rockets - a 4-0 shutout performance to boot.
'Berger is a good one and has the potential to be a good pro. But he will have to stay focused.
This also gives him a chance to be a #1 guy. It's a great opportunity with a great looking team.
Good luck Mark, I'll be watching and wishing you the best.
Martin, Magnus, 2nd round 2010, 4th 2010 bantam picks to Kootenay for D John Negrin and F Michael Stickland:
I arrived at the rink yesterday just as this was being made official. I watched as both Christan and James went back on the bus to grab their belongings and say good-bye to their teammates. It was the harsh reality of the deadline. This isn't hockey cards we're talking about it's people and individuals.
James was ok with everything. He's a mature 17 year-old and nothing seems to rattle him. Christian on the other hand looked like a deer in the headlights. Shock was written all over his face.
I had a chance to talk to them both. I told them they are going to a good organization with great, supportive fans and a beautiful facility. I told them Cranbrook reminds me of Swift Current in many ways and that they will fit in fine.
They laughed they were going from one Chynoweth club to another.
This trade is generating a lot of talk it seems from Bronco fans/bashers. All the haters sure come out of the woodwork. Then there are others who in one day go from "sell the farm" to "we can win the conference". It really is enough to make your head spin.
Let's break down this trade. The Broncos give up the 16 year-old Magnus who was having a hard time getting into the line-up. He wasn't a top six forward and he wasn't a bang and crash player either. For the Broncos, they must have struggled to see where he was going to fit in. The Broncos will only lose one forward next season (Dansereau) and have some forwards in the system they want to take a good look at. Magnus was deemed expendable.
James Martin was a 17 year-old defenseman that showed promise but was seemingly falling a little bit on the depth chart. With the emergence of 16 year-old Jordan Evans, the much improved play of 17 year-old Joel Rogers, just one 18 year-old in Andrew Hewett and now four 19 year-old d-men plus an over-age in McAvoy, the Broncos blueline was set.
James should get a good look and opportunity in Cranbrook.
From a personality standpoint, James and Christian were two of my favorites. They will be solid citizens for the Kootenay Ice. The Ice showed interest in the two players and now get a chance to work with them.
It's funny to read some stuff out there. It seems the value of these two players has sky-rocketed ever since they were traded. Funny how that works.
Two good kids. Good luck.
The Broncos and the Ice meet in six days in Cranbrook as well. That will also add something extra to this deal.
In return...
The Broncos get another 19 year-old PP defenseman who is big and skates well. He's already signed by the Calgary Flames which means his chances of being back with the Broncos next season would be slim.
He represented Team WHL in Swift Current for the ADT Canada / Russia Challenge and the Broncos are really excited about his ability. He plays in all situations and instantly becomes a go-to guy.
In Michael Stickland, they get a hard-working, gritty forward who can score. The 19 year-old is a leader and the Broncos have had their eye on him for some time. His chances of returning for a 20 year-old season is also very high.
Conclusion:
This team has made themselves better today without taking a major hit to their future plans. I thought Guggenberger would be the guy in goal next season. But with NHL teams knocking on his door and an ability to lose sight of the big picture, the Broncos weren't going to gamble.
Next year's team looks really solid too. The core of this team is still at the 17 year-old age group and the Broncos will return several key elements including a veteran, battle-hardened defense.
Dean broke down all the trades in our pre-game show last night. I will transcribe his thoughts tomorrow on the blog.
Onward and upward.
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We are presently having some online streaming problems of our broadcast and we are looking into at the station. I can assure you we are working on it but a solution won't likely be reached until the games next weekend.
We apologize to Bronco fans everywhere and to the players friends and family.
Internet streaming isn't the business we're into at the Eagle 94.1 FM but we understand we have an obligation to provide this.
Hang in there, we will be back soon.
Jon
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Pre-game Show Tonight
Catch tonight's pre-game show on the Eagle 94.1 FM for an extensive trade deadline recap with Broncos Head Coach /GM Dean Chynoweth. It all begins at 8pm Saskatchewan time.
For now, it's off to catch the bus to Medicine Hat.
Jon
For now, it's off to catch the bus to Medicine Hat.
Jon
Broncos Add Negrin and Stickland From Kootenay
Wow, what a day. Here's the Broncos 5th trade of the deadline and they've saved the best for last . They've added two key elements and have raised the flag a top the ship to indicate full steam ahead.
Here's the press release:
Here's the press release:
Swift Current Broncos General Manager Dean Chynoweth announced that the club has acquired 19 year old defenseman John Negrin and 19 year old forward Michael Stickland from th
e Kootenay Ice in exchange for: 16 year old forward Christian Magnus, 17 year old defenseman James Martin and the Broncos 2nd and 4th round bantam picks in 2010.
Chynoweth says “We've added two players to our line-up that will make an immediate impact. John is one of the most complete defensemen in the league who can play in all situations and log significant ice time. Michael adds speed, work ethic, and added scoring punch up front."
"In doing so, we had to give up two quality young guys in Christian and James. We wish them all the best in Kootenay."
Negrin is a 2nd round selection by Calgary in the 2007 draft and is signed by the Flames. He has 5 goals and 31 points in 37 games this season with the Ice. Negrin is 6’2” 190 lbs from West Vancouver, BC and played in the ADT Canada/Russia Challenge game in Swift Current in November.
Stickland, a 5’11” forward from Red Deer Alberta, has 13 goals and 25 points in 42 games this season, his 3rd in the WHL. Stickland had 22 goals and 50 points last season in Kootenay.
Blockbuster Trade Set to be Announced
The Broncos and Ice have pulled the trigger on a major swap...details coming soon.
Guggenberger to Kelowna
(Swift Current--SK) Swift Current Broncos General Manager Dean Chynoweth announced that the club has traded 19 year old goaltender Mark Guggenberger to the Kelowna Rockets in exchange for a conditional 5th round pick in the 2010 bantam draft.
Chynoweth says: “In acquiring Morgan Clark and with the success of Travis Yonkman in the playoffs last season, we felt that we needed to give Mark the chance to play more regularly. We wish Mark the best of luck in the future and thank him for his time as a Bronco”
Guggenberger was picked up by the Broncos at last season's deadline from Portland. He is 12-11 this season.
Chynoweth on Toulmin
As most know already, 19 year-old forward Grant Toulmin is no longer with the Broncos. Head Coach / GM Dean Chynoweth addressed the issue in our pre-game show.
"Grant has decided he doesn't want to be a Bronco... he's now awaiting a trade or re-assignment to junior "A"."
Busy day ahead... the Broncos depart for Medicine Hat just 15 minutes after the deadline passes. That means no last minute trade deadline blogging but we will see what we can come up with.
Obviously the Broncos will more than likely move a goaltender today. We will watch and wait.
Jon
"Grant has decided he doesn't want to be a Bronco... he's now awaiting a trade or re-assignment to junior "A"."
Busy day ahead... the Broncos depart for Medicine Hat just 15 minutes after the deadline passes. That means no last minute trade deadline blogging but we will see what we can come up with.
Obviously the Broncos will more than likely move a goaltender today. We will watch and wait.
Jon
Three Trades and Two Points
The day before the WHL trade deadline proved to be one of the busiest trading days for the Broncos in recent memory. Sandwich that in with an important road game in Regina against the rival Pats and you have one heck of a Friday.
The Broncos finished the day with three trades and two points after handing the Pats their 6th straight loss with a 5-3 win at the Brandt Center. A short recap will follow.
The Broncos announced a pair of trades following tonight’s game. The first was a deal with the Pats that will see Jesse Dudas fill their vacant 20 year-old spot in exchange for a 4th round bantam pick.
The other deal was the acquisition of 18 year-old goaltender Morgan Clark from the Red Deer Rebels in exchange for a 5th round bantam pick in 2010.
The move to acquire another goaltender will almost certainly lead to another move in that department before the deadline. The Broncos appear to be on the verge of trading away Travis Yonkman and Mark Guggenberger. Stay tuned.
The early trade of the day saw a swap of 18 year-old forwards with the Chilliwack Bruins - the Broncos getting Liam Darragh in exchange for Matt Ius as reported earlier.
So let’s look at the three trades:
Dudas to the Pats for a 4th rounder: The Broncos hands were tied a little in this one and they had to make a move to get down to three overage players. The Pats showed a lot of interest throughout even though his stock was dropping faster than the stock market. The Pats get a player with the ability to be possibly their best defenseman – top two for sure. He does come with a few knocks including being prone to injury and some off-ice issues. The fact this is Jesse’s 4th team says something. Regardless he’s a good pick up for the Pats and a player in which I respect his ability immensely.
The Broncos get decent value out of Dudas considering he failed to report after Christmas. They nearly faced the possibility of releasing him so I think a 4th rounder is a fair deal – it was about a round or two higher than I was expecting.
Morgan Clark to the Broncos for a 5th round pick: The Broncos are high on the 18 year-old goaltender out of Red Deer and look like they have made the move so they can deal either Travis Yonkman or Mark Guggenberger.
Although I love this duo in goal, its two veterans that deserve to both start. I may be bias but the Broncos may have the two of the top three goaltenders in the Conference. Wait and see on this one. Moving Yonkman would free up a 20 year-old spot for the Broncos to add a veteran forward or defenseman. Something has to be said though for finishing your career in a Broncos jersey. Yonks has been an outstanding citizen and has developed into a premiere ‘tender. That’s why teams around the league have been calling Dean Chynoweth inquiring about his services.
Matt Ius for Liam Darragh: It appears to be a swap of scenery for the two big-bodied forwards. With family matters keeping Ius at home, Chilliwack is the closest destination for him to go. Liam Darragh comes in at 6’4, 200 lbs and impressed me in his first game as a Bronco tonight. He assisted on the Broncos first goal and had a pretty good tilt with the Pats Colten Teubert that took the World Junior defenseman out of the game for 17 minutes after he drew an instigator and misconduct.
Darragh held his own and can throw pretty good left to boot. He was our unsung hero tonight on our post-game show. Solid debut. He’s a big, strapping lad who I think Bronco fans will like.
What will tomorrow bring?
The Broncos scored five unanswered goals en-route to a 5-3 win over the Regina Pats at the Brandt Center.
The Broncos trailed 2-0 in the 1st until Jan Dalecky scored on a left wing shot to get the Broncos on the board.
Eric Doyle added a goal on a top circle shot that went off the post and in to tie the game in the 2nd period.
Matt Tassone scored on a nice 2-on-1 with Keegan Dansereau to give the Broncos their first lead of the game 5:03 into the 2nd period.
The Broncos finally cashed in on their 6th powerplay of the game on a Spencer McAvoy screened shot from the mid-point.
Moments later Geordie Wudrick scored on another powerplay after Cody Eakin picked the puck up from a downed Linden Rowat in the Pats goal and fed Wudrick to give the Broncos a 5-2 lead heading into the third.
The Broncos dodged a 5-on-3 bullet early in the third and kept their three-goal lead until 7:53 to play when Jordan Eberle scored on a short-handed breakaway.
The Pats had a flurry of chances in the final minutes but Yonkman was there for some big saves down the stretch.
The Pats pulled their goaltender for nearly the final three minutes but the Broncos skated away with a 5-3 win to pull to 2-2 in the New Year.
The loss was Regina’s 6th in a row and temporarily booted them out of a playoff spot and into 9th in the Conference with both Edmonton and Prince Albert winning tonight.
Extras:
- What a roar for Jordan Eberle in the pre-game ceremony tonight. Pats fans welcomed the semi-final hero home with a well-deserved standing ovation. This kid is the real deal on and off the ice.
- What a gong show in the third period with the Brandt Center scoreclock. There was nearly a ten-minute delay before they gave up with the frozen screen and decided to use a stopwatch for about a 10-minute stretch. This was the third problem with the clock in the game – or was it a problem with the operators?
- The Broncos kept their own time and there was a bit of discrepancy according to Assistant Coach Tim Kehler in our post-game coaches show. “I think we played 60 minutes plus tonight there’s no doubt,” commented Kehler.
Should be a fun and busy day tomorrow… check back for the latest.
Jon
The Broncos finished the day with three trades and two points after handing the Pats their 6th straight loss with a 5-3 win at the Brandt Center. A short recap will follow.
The Broncos announced a pair of trades following tonight’s game. The first was a deal with the Pats that will see Jesse Dudas fill their vacant 20 year-old spot in exchange for a 4th round bantam pick.
The other deal was the acquisition of 18 year-old goaltender Morgan Clark from the Red Deer Rebels in exchange for a 5th round bantam pick in 2010.
The move to acquire another goaltender will almost certainly lead to another move in that department before the deadline. The Broncos appear to be on the verge of trading away Travis Yonkman and Mark Guggenberger. Stay tuned.
The early trade of the day saw a swap of 18 year-old forwards with the Chilliwack Bruins - the Broncos getting Liam Darragh in exchange for Matt Ius as reported earlier.
So let’s look at the three trades:
Dudas to the Pats for a 4th rounder: The Broncos hands were tied a little in this one and they had to make a move to get down to three overage players. The Pats showed a lot of interest throughout even though his stock was dropping faster than the stock market. The Pats get a player with the ability to be possibly their best defenseman – top two for sure. He does come with a few knocks including being prone to injury and some off-ice issues. The fact this is Jesse’s 4th team says something. Regardless he’s a good pick up for the Pats and a player in which I respect his ability immensely.
The Broncos get decent value out of Dudas considering he failed to report after Christmas. They nearly faced the possibility of releasing him so I think a 4th rounder is a fair deal – it was about a round or two higher than I was expecting.
Morgan Clark to the Broncos for a 5th round pick: The Broncos are high on the 18 year-old goaltender out of Red Deer and look like they have made the move so they can deal either Travis Yonkman or Mark Guggenberger.
Although I love this duo in goal, its two veterans that deserve to both start. I may be bias but the Broncos may have the two of the top three goaltenders in the Conference. Wait and see on this one. Moving Yonkman would free up a 20 year-old spot for the Broncos to add a veteran forward or defenseman. Something has to be said though for finishing your career in a Broncos jersey. Yonks has been an outstanding citizen and has developed into a premiere ‘tender. That’s why teams around the league have been calling Dean Chynoweth inquiring about his services.
Matt Ius for Liam Darragh: It appears to be a swap of scenery for the two big-bodied forwards. With family matters keeping Ius at home, Chilliwack is the closest destination for him to go. Liam Darragh comes in at 6’4, 200 lbs and impressed me in his first game as a Bronco tonight. He assisted on the Broncos first goal and had a pretty good tilt with the Pats Colten Teubert that took the World Junior defenseman out of the game for 17 minutes after he drew an instigator and misconduct.
Darragh held his own and can throw pretty good left to boot. He was our unsung hero tonight on our post-game show. Solid debut. He’s a big, strapping lad who I think Bronco fans will like.
What will tomorrow bring?
The Broncos scored five unanswered goals en-route to a 5-3 win over the Regina Pats at the Brandt Center.
The Broncos trailed 2-0 in the 1st until Jan Dalecky scored on a left wing shot to get the Broncos on the board.
Eric Doyle added a goal on a top circle shot that went off the post and in to tie the game in the 2nd period.
Matt Tassone scored on a nice 2-on-1 with Keegan Dansereau to give the Broncos their first lead of the game 5:03 into the 2nd period.
The Broncos finally cashed in on their 6th powerplay of the game on a Spencer McAvoy screened shot from the mid-point.
Moments later Geordie Wudrick scored on another powerplay after Cody Eakin picked the puck up from a downed Linden Rowat in the Pats goal and fed Wudrick to give the Broncos a 5-2 lead heading into the third.
The Broncos dodged a 5-on-3 bullet early in the third and kept their three-goal lead until 7:53 to play when Jordan Eberle scored on a short-handed breakaway.
The Pats had a flurry of chances in the final minutes but Yonkman was there for some big saves down the stretch.
The Pats pulled their goaltender for nearly the final three minutes but the Broncos skated away with a 5-3 win to pull to 2-2 in the New Year.
The loss was Regina’s 6th in a row and temporarily booted them out of a playoff spot and into 9th in the Conference with both Edmonton and Prince Albert winning tonight.
Extras:
- What a roar for Jordan Eberle in the pre-game ceremony tonight. Pats fans welcomed the semi-final hero home with a well-deserved standing ovation. This kid is the real deal on and off the ice.
- What a gong show in the third period with the Brandt Center scoreclock. There was nearly a ten-minute delay before they gave up with the frozen screen and decided to use a stopwatch for about a 10-minute stretch. This was the third problem with the clock in the game – or was it a problem with the operators?
- The Broncos kept their own time and there was a bit of discrepancy according to Assistant Coach Tim Kehler in our post-game coaches show. “I think we played 60 minutes plus tonight there’s no doubt,” commented Kehler.
Should be a fun and busy day tomorrow… check back for the latest.
Jon
Friday, January 09, 2009
Trade
The Regina Pats are reporting a trade that would see Broncos defenseman Jesse Dudas joining the Pats.
The Broncos will get a *correction* 4th round bantam pick in return.
More later...
The Broncos will get a *correction* 4th round bantam pick in return.
More later...
Broncos Acquire Darragh
The Swift Current Broncos have swapped 18 year-old forwards with the Chilliwack Bruins.They've sent 18 year-old Matt Ius to the Bruins for 18 year-old Liam Darragh.
The move is a good one for Ius who can be close to home while he attends to a family matter.
Chilliwack is the closest possible destination for Ius. Good to see the Broncos made this happen for him.
Good luck Matt.
Press Release:
Swift Current, SK--The Swift Current Broncos have acquired 18 year old forward Liam Darragh from the Chilliwack Bruins in exchange for 18 year old forward Matt Ius.
Assistant General Manager Elden Moberg says: "Liam adds size and strength and a physical element to our line-up up front, and at 18 he has the potential to be with us for the next couple of seasons."
Darragh, from Quesnel BC, has 2 goals and 4 assists for 6 points along with 60 penalty minutes in 39 games this season with the Bruins. Darragh is 6’4” and 200 pounds and is in his second full season in the WHL. He was listed by the Bruins in 2006 after playing with the Princeton Posse in the KIJHL (Junior B) in British Columbia.
Darragh is expected to meet the team in Regina today.
Thursday, January 08, 2009
The Latest
I was down at the rink this afternoon for some Shaw TV work... and all is quiet.
The guys were just getting ready for practice when I was there and in a light mood. They all want to know what's up or what's going on around the league.
As for the Broncos, not much to report. They have been interested spectators to this point.
From what I'm hearing around the league the asking price seems a bit steep at this point. The sellers just seeing where a team will bite.
The Eastern Conference said good-bye to Ryley Grantham today when Moose Jaw shipped him to Kelowna. If there is one player who came into this league and came a long ways it would be Grantham. Although, his reputation precedes him, and referees are quick to look in his direction.
Expect an increase in toughness in Kelowna no doubt, but you can talk on a few goaltender interference penalty kills the rest of the way.
Moose Jaw gets a warm body in return, so I think they did well.
More later......................
The guys were just getting ready for practice when I was there and in a light mood. They all want to know what's up or what's going on around the league.
As for the Broncos, not much to report. They have been interested spectators to this point.
From what I'm hearing around the league the asking price seems a bit steep at this point. The sellers just seeing where a team will bite.
The Eastern Conference said good-bye to Ryley Grantham today when Moose Jaw shipped him to Kelowna. If there is one player who came into this league and came a long ways it would be Grantham. Although, his reputation precedes him, and referees are quick to look in his direction.
Expect an increase in toughness in Kelowna no doubt, but you can talk on a few goaltender interference penalty kills the rest of the way.
Moose Jaw gets a warm body in return, so I think they did well.
More later......................
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Deadline Talk
With the trade deadline approaching one has to ask where the Broncos fit into the Eastern Conference playoff picture.
With Calgary looking solid as a rock on top, Brandon and Saskatoon are trying to create a two-horse race for the east division lead, and Lethbridge loading up for a playoff run, what's the right course of action for the Broncos?
Right now the Broncos have proven they are at least in the 2nd flight along with Medicine Hat, Kootenay and Regina. Don't count out teams like Prince Albert and Edmonton jumping into the flight as well with their play of late.
What would the Broncos need to be able to compete at the top? I asked Broncos Head Coach/GM Dean Chynoweth last night what he would like to add (at the right price) to the team before Saturday's trade deadline:
"If we could get another top six forward it would give us some depth up-front. I would also be open to seeing what else is out there on the back-end to maybe acquire another defenseman.
Past that, I think our group has had a good stretch where our young guys played good early in the season and I'm not real crazy in dismantling that.
We will keep our ears open and see what may come about."
I agree with Dean's assessment of what is needed. Goaltending is strong, defense is almost there but could use another battle proven veteran and the team is pretty young up-front after the Tassone/Dowling/Dansereau top unit.
On the flip side I asked Brandon Wheat Kings Head Coach/GM his deadline plans. I asked if they would look to upgrade their goaltending and add a proven playoff 'tender. His response was typical Kelly:
"I'm not privy to your sources so I don't know where you're coming from with your goaltending but you've surprised me before Jon.
I don't see us doing a lot really. We are encouraged with our play as of late and we're working real hard to try and finish as high in the conference as we can.
Recognize there are a lot of strong teams aside from the obvious which on our side is Calgary. At some point you have to go through Calgary at some point and with the Memorial Cup a year from now, we also have to be mindful of that and it ties our hands."
What will today bring? Stay tuned.
----------------------
Jon
With Calgary looking solid as a rock on top, Brandon and Saskatoon are trying to create a two-horse race for the east division lead, and Lethbridge loading up for a playoff run, what's the right course of action for the Broncos?
Right now the Broncos have proven they are at least in the 2nd flight along with Medicine Hat, Kootenay and Regina. Don't count out teams like Prince Albert and Edmonton jumping into the flight as well with their play of late.
What would the Broncos need to be able to compete at the top? I asked Broncos Head Coach/GM Dean Chynoweth last night what he would like to add (at the right price) to the team before Saturday's trade deadline:
"If we could get another top six forward it would give us some depth up-front. I would also be open to seeing what else is out there on the back-end to maybe acquire another defenseman.
Past that, I think our group has had a good stretch where our young guys played good early in the season and I'm not real crazy in dismantling that.
We will keep our ears open and see what may come about."
I agree with Dean's assessment of what is needed. Goaltending is strong, defense is almost there but could use another battle proven veteran and the team is pretty young up-front after the Tassone/Dowling/Dansereau top unit.
On the flip side I asked Brandon Wheat Kings Head Coach/GM his deadline plans. I asked if they would look to upgrade their goaltending and add a proven playoff 'tender. His response was typical Kelly:
"I'm not privy to your sources so I don't know where you're coming from with your goaltending but you've surprised me before Jon.
I don't see us doing a lot really. We are encouraged with our play as of late and we're working real hard to try and finish as high in the conference as we can.
Recognize there are a lot of strong teams aside from the obvious which on our side is Calgary. At some point you have to go through Calgary at some point and with the Memorial Cup a year from now, we also have to be mindful of that and it ties our hands."
What will today bring? Stay tuned.
----------------------
Jon
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Here it Comes....
Beach Now a Hurricane
Lethbridge Hurricanes General Manager, Roy Stasiuk, announced this afternoon the Canes have traded forward Dan Iwanski and defenseman Alex Theriau; along with a 1st round draft pick in the 2009 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft to the Everett Silvertips in exchange for 89-born defenseman Mike Alexander and 2008 NHL first round draft pick Kyle Beach.
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If this is the going rate for a top-end player this year than the sellers are going to have a hayday! This is a HUGE price to pay in my opinion. Iwanski and Theriau are two really good young players... then you add a 1st round bantam pick.
Everett must be smiling. Great move Doug Soetaert.
Lethbridge Hurricanes General Manager, Roy Stasiuk, announced this afternoon the Canes have traded forward Dan Iwanski and defenseman Alex Theriau; along with a 1st round draft pick in the 2009 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft to the Everett Silvertips in exchange for 89-born defenseman Mike Alexander and 2008 NHL first round draft pick Kyle Beach.
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If this is the going rate for a top-end player this year than the sellers are going to have a hayday! This is a HUGE price to pay in my opinion. Iwanski and Theriau are two really good young players... then you add a 1st round bantam pick.
Everett must be smiling. Great move Doug Soetaert.
Ctrl Alt Del?
Is this begining of a roster reset in Regina like last year? Or is it just a move to try to get more out of a pair of 20 year-olds with a change of scenery?
Here's the press release:
Prince Albert, Saskatchewan – The Prince Albert Raiders have acquired 20 year-old left winger Michael MacAngus from the Regina Pats in exchange for 20 year-old left winger Matt Robertson. The Raiders also acquire the Pats’ 4th round pick in the 2009 WHL Bantam Draft.
MacAngus will be joining his third WHL team, after the Pats acquired him from the Saskatoon Blades during the 2006-07 season. In his fourth year in the WHL, MacAngus contributed 10 points in 10 playoff games for the Pats in their 06-07 playoff run and has 26 games WHL post season experience. This season MacAngus was fifth in Pats scoring with 11 goals and 17 assists in 44 games.
Robertson, whom the Raiders listed in April, 2006, was the WHL Eastern Conference Rookie of the Year in 2006-07 when he had 64 points in 69 games to lead the Raiders in scoring. Last year Robertson tied for the team lead in scoring with 59 points. In 08-09 Robertson was fourth in team scoring with 15 goals and 19 assists in 44 games.
“It is very difficult to lose a player and person of the quality of Matt Robertson and we wish him all the very best in Regina”, said Raiders General Manager and Head Coach Bruno Campese. “In Michael MacAngus we acquire size, toughness and a player that has been consistent with his point production through the years.”
MacAngus is expected to join in the Raiders for their Alberta road trip which starts tomorrow night in Calgary.
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Here's the press release:
Prince Albert, Saskatchewan – The Prince Albert Raiders have acquired 20 year-old left winger Michael MacAngus from the Regina Pats in exchange for 20 year-old left winger Matt Robertson. The Raiders also acquire the Pats’ 4th round pick in the 2009 WHL Bantam Draft.
MacAngus will be joining his third WHL team, after the Pats acquired him from the Saskatoon Blades during the 2006-07 season. In his fourth year in the WHL, MacAngus contributed 10 points in 10 playoff games for the Pats in their 06-07 playoff run and has 26 games WHL post season experience. This season MacAngus was fifth in Pats scoring with 11 goals and 17 assists in 44 games.
Robertson, whom the Raiders listed in April, 2006, was the WHL Eastern Conference Rookie of the Year in 2006-07 when he had 64 points in 69 games to lead the Raiders in scoring. Last year Robertson tied for the team lead in scoring with 59 points. In 08-09 Robertson was fourth in team scoring with 15 goals and 19 assists in 44 games.
“It is very difficult to lose a player and person of the quality of Matt Robertson and we wish him all the very best in Regina”, said Raiders General Manager and Head Coach Bruno Campese. “In Michael MacAngus we acquire size, toughness and a player that has been consistent with his point production through the years.”
MacAngus is expected to join in the Raiders for their Alberta road trip which starts tomorrow night in Calgary.
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Monday, January 05, 2009
New Look 'Dub Site
The Western Hockey League is proud today to announce the launch of the new www.whl.ca .
The completely redesigned www.whl.ca features an all-new look and features including top-line navigation, new homepage video player, photo galleries, richer media, more video, exclusive photos, more multi-media throughout as well as a new key word search and suggestions tool. Additional features like interactive news articles with the ability to post reader comments will be added in the future.
The new www.whl.ca for the first time will include an integrated video player on the homepage of the website. The video player will continue to include WHL WEB TV features including the Plays of the Week, NHL Top Prospect Watch, One-on-One interview with the WHL’s brightest stars and new original programming as the season progresses. Along with the WHL’s internet streaming partner INSINC, every WHL game will still be available to stream LIVE online through WHL WEB TV.
WHL fans and media will still have the same access to WHL scores, standings, statistics and game information they have come accustom to in the past in a new and excited look.
The new www.whl.ca will launch Monday, January 5th at 12:00 pm (MT). Please note between 11:30 am – 12:00 pm (MT), www.whl.ca will be down as our website provider transfers IP addresses from the old website to the new. Sorry for any inconvenience.
The WHL continues its long online partnership with the Toronto-based Commercial Design, who also produced the WHL’s statistics system – League Stat.
The completely redesigned www.whl.ca features an all-new look and features including top-line navigation, new homepage video player, photo galleries, richer media, more video, exclusive photos, more multi-media throughout as well as a new key word search and suggestions tool. Additional features like interactive news articles with the ability to post reader comments will be added in the future.
The new www.whl.ca for the first time will include an integrated video player on the homepage of the website. The video player will continue to include WHL WEB TV features including the Plays of the Week, NHL Top Prospect Watch, One-on-One interview with the WHL’s brightest stars and new original programming as the season progresses. Along with the WHL’s internet streaming partner INSINC, every WHL game will still be available to stream LIVE online through WHL WEB TV.
WHL fans and media will still have the same access to WHL scores, standings, statistics and game information they have come accustom to in the past in a new and excited look.
The new www.whl.ca will launch Monday, January 5th at 12:00 pm (MT). Please note between 11:30 am – 12:00 pm (MT), www.whl.ca will be down as our website provider transfers IP addresses from the old website to the new. Sorry for any inconvenience.
The WHL continues its long online partnership with the Toronto-based Commercial Design, who also produced the WHL’s statistics system – League Stat.
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