On Friday, Chicago opened the scoring in the second period when Mathieu De St. Phalle netted his 10th goal of the season. The goal was assisted by defenseman Jack Babbage and goaltender Ian Shane.

Shane let the only Capitol goal of the game two minutes later when forward Kristoff Papp scored his sixth goal of the season. The game-tying goal ruined Shane’s shutout bid as the Manhattan Beach, California, native stopped 33 shots in the game.

Early in the third period, Colangelo gave the Steel the lead for good with his seventh goal on the season. The goal, assisted by forward Josh Doan, followed up by defenseman Uula Ruikka‘s second goal of the season when he beat Capitol goaltender Simon Latkoczy.

The @ChicagoSteel grab the lead late in the third in Madison with this snipe ! #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/RRkKiX6aom

— USHL (@USHL) November 9, 2019

With the 3–1 victory, Chicago gained control of the Eastern Conference top spot in the USHL.

The next evening, Chicago scored three goals in each period, shellacking the visitors on home ice, as goaltender Victor Ostman stopped 31 shots on the evening.

Chicago scored the first three goals of the game when forward Mackie Samoskevich and Tyler Carpenter each scored their second and fifth goals respectively on the season. Defenseman Owen Power banged home his fifth of the season giving the Steel a 3–0 lead before Madison finally found the back of the net.

In the second period, Colangelo, Samoskevich and forward Brendan Brisson each scored to extend the Chicago lead to 6–1 after two period of play. Chicago outshot Madison 18–15 in the period.

Chicago’s final three goals, scored by Colangelo, Ruikka and forward Dawson Pasternak finished off the 9–1 slaughter of the Capitols.

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Youngstown jumped out to a lead in the first period when defenseman Aiden Gallacher beat Steel netminder Victor Osman. A penalty shot goal by forward John Beaton, given after an Owen Power delay of game penalty, extended the Phantom lead to 2–0 early in the second period. Youngstown extended found the back of the net again in the second period when forward Trevor Kuntar beat Osman for his ninth goal of the season.

Chicago outshot Youngstown 23–10 after two periods.

Forward Sean Farrell finally solved the mystery that was Basse in net for Chicago’s first goal of the game. The goal gave the Harvard University commit his sixth goal of the season.

Less than a minute later, forward Mathieu De St. Phalle beat Basse for his ninth goal of the season. Assisted by forwards Brendan Brisson and Farrell, Chicago cut the lead to 3–2 with over 18 minutes left in the game.

The @RPI_Hockey commit, @JohnBeaton_07 scores on the penalty shot to increase the @YtownPhantoms lead! #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/8A8t02VZ5f

— USHL (@USHL) November 2, 2019

After an onslaught of shots on Basse, Chicago could not muster the tying goal before surrendering an empty net goal to give the Phantoms the 4–2 victory.

On Saturday night, Chicago jumped out to the lead with a late first period goal and finished off their opponents after three goals in the third period, defeating the Waterloo Black Hawks 5–3.

Chicago jumped on top when the University of Notre Dame commit Tyler Carpenter beat Waterloo goaltender Logan Stein at the 19:27 mark of the first period. The goal, Carpenter’s fourth goal of the season, was assisted by defenseman John Spetz.

Spetz would find the back of the net himself, at the 4:04 mark in the third period, for his second goal of the season. Spetz’s tally was assisted by forwards Brisson and Sam Colangelo.

Waterloo would answer back with a second period goal of their own when forward Patrick Guzzo beat Steel goaltender Victor Ostman.

Both teams exchanged goals less than a minute apart when Colangelo found the back of the net to extend the Steel lead to 3–1, however, forward Dane Montgomery scored his second of the season moments later.

With the score 3–2 in favor of Chicago, both teams exchanged goals again within a minute when Colangelo scored his second goal on the night, his third point, only to be matched again by Black Hawks forward Griffin Ness.

Waterloo pulled Stein in hopes of tying the game, however, defenseman Owen Power would seal the deal for the home team with an empty net goal. Power’s fourth goal of the season finished off Waterloo for a 5–3 victory.

Prior to this past weekends games, goaltender Victor Osman and defenseman Owen Power were named the Goaltender and Defenseman of the Week for the USHL for their games on October 25 and 26, respectively. Ostman and Power are the first recipients of the awards for the Steel this season.

GM Ryan Hardy on USHL Players of the Week

G Victor Ostman – “Really happy with his development, his attention to detail, his willingness to get better.”

D Owen Power – “He’s probably the best kept secret in hockey. I don’t know how much longer it’s going to be a secret.” pic.twitter.com/u7r3yYP0vk

— Chicago Steel (@ChicagoSteel) October 30, 2019

The post Chicago Steel split weekend, Power and Ostman named players of the week appeared first on The Rink.

The-Rink.com co-hosts “Gatekeeper” is joined again by staff writers Ray Napientek and Juliana Nikac to talk about the current state of the Blackhawks.

• The Blackhawks are 2-4-2 after losing to the Flyers, Thursday night.
• Kirby Dach recalled from Rockford and played 3 games thus far.
• Connor Murphy injured against the Vegas Golden Knights
• Aleksi Saarela sent to Florida for Ian McCoshen
• Mario Tirabassi gives us another award-winning #Warpigs report.
• Gate, Ray and Juliana discuss the last 6 games and the state of the Blackhawks.
• We also discuss Corey Crawford, Robin Lehner, Brendan Perlini, Brandon Saad, and much more
• We wrap with the Rinkrat PuckBag segment where we discuss #HongKongClassic jerseys.

Please subscribe, rate this episode, and even write us a review. Reviews will be read on the air.

Also, please help spread the word to more #RinkRats and visit our sponsor www.PUCKHCKY.com. Use the discount code “THERINK” for 10% off all orders.

The Rinkcast is brought to you by the Overtime Podcast Network

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The-Rink.com co-hosts “Gatekeeper” and “Double J” are joined by staff member and Chicago Steel head writer  Ray Napientek to talk about the first two games of the Blackhawks regular season.

• The Blackhawks lay an egg in Prague.
• Some roster moves happen, including Carl Dahlstrom moving to balmy Winnipeg.
• Mario Tirabassi gives us another award winning #Warpigs report.
• The three old guys talk about the Blackhawks loss to San Jose.
• We also discuss Corey Crawford, Robin Lehner, Brendan Perlini, Erik Gustafsson, Dominik Kubalik and much more
• We wrap with Rinkrat PuckBag segment.

Please subscribe, rate this episode, and even write us a review. Reviews will be read on the air.

Also, Please help spread the word to more #RinkRats and visit our sponsor www.PUCKHCKY.com. Use the discount code “THERINK” for 10% off all orders.

The Rinkcast is brought to you by the Overtime Podcast Network

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At the 1:48 mark in the first period, Fontiane beat Gambler goaltender Nicholas Grabko to grab the 1–0 lead. The goal, Fontaine’s second on the season, was assisted by forward Sam Colangelo.

The Wolf Man bites again!

Gunnarwolfe Fontaine dazzles his way through the Green Bay defense and gets the @ChicagoSteel on the board! #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/JX4zeNjucq

— USHL (@USHL) October 6, 2019

Chicago would waste no time extending their lead to 2–0 only 18 seconds into the second period when De St. Phalle beat Slabko. Farrell and forward Brendon Brisson assisted on the game-winner.

Per our tweet last night, DUDESCORESPOINTS@mattydsp28 pic.twitter.com/zPJ6loE9Yy

— Chicago Steel (@ChicagoSteel) October 6, 2019

Farrell wasted no time finding the back of the net three minutes later for his third goal of the season. Farrell beat Slabko with an excellent top-shelf snipe, extending the Steel lead to 3–0.

And your final #SundayMorningSteelSnipe is courtesy of Sean Farrell pic.twitter.com/jehvZwXCll

— Chicago Steel (@ChicagoSteel) October 6, 2019

At the halfway point of the game, Chicago was outshooting Green Bay 16–5, showing the type of dominance that Chicago was putting on display in front of their home crowd.

Green Bay finally dented the net in the third period on a five-on-three power play when forward Jesse Tucker beat Ostman.

When the horned sounded, Ostman secured his second victory on the early season and Chicago improved their record to 3–0–0. Ostman credited his team’s play in front of him for his success.

“They played great tonight,” Ostman said in a postgame interview. “They really made it easy for me and the shots that Green Bay had were mostly from the outside.”

The Steel will hit the road for a contest with the Green Bay Gamblers on Friday at Resch Center in Green Bay. Puck drops at 7:05 p.m. CDT. Chicago will stay on the road for a back-to-back matchup with the Youngstown Phantoms on Sunday at 4:04 p.m. CDT and then again on Oct. 14 at 6:05 p.m. CDT.

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Against the Musketeers, Fontaine opened the scoring at the 11:40 mark in the first period, beating Sioux City goaltender Ethan Haider. The goal, assisted by defenseman Uula Ruikka and forward Elis Hede, was the only goal of the first period.

Sioux City evened the score after Finnish forward Joel Maatta beat Chicago goalkeeper Victor Ostman. Maatta’s goal, assisted by defensman Dominic Vidoli and forward Blake Biondi came after Chicago defensmean Owen Power was sent to the penalty box for cross checking.

The Steel would waste no time taking the lead back when forward Mackie Samoskevich fired a shot by Haider, giving Chicago the 2–1 lead. Samoskevich used a couple of Musketeer players to screen Haider and found the top corner for his first goal of the season. Illinois native Tyler Carpenter assisted on the power play goal.

An absolute SNIPE from Mackie Samoskevich gives the @ChicagoSteel the lead in the third period! #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/wwqs4Unb6a

— USHL (@USHL) September 28, 2019

Fontaine scored his second goal of the game at the 17:34 mark of the third period to extend the Chicago lead to 3–1. Forward Sam Colangelo and Hede assisted on the power play goal.

Sioux City would not go down easy though, as Maatta scored his second of the game at the 18:16 mark. However, the Musketeers could not even the score late with Haider pulled from his net.

Ostman stopped 19 shots in the victory, his first as an USHL goaltender.

On Saturday, Chicago scored first again, as forward Mathieu De St. Phalle scored his first goal of the season. The University of Wisconsin commit took a nice drop pass and beat Sioux Falls netminder Grant Adams. The goal was assisted by Farrell and defenseman Jack Babbage.

Nice passing in the zone followed by a Mathieu De St. Phalle snipe has the @ChicagoSteel out in front 1-0 over the @sfstampede. #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/YV7yvPTZqm

— USHL (@USHL) September 29, 2019

Both teams exchanged power play goals to start the second period. Poland native forward Jakub Lewandowski beat Chicago goaltender Ian Shane to tie the game at 1–1, only to be matched by Farrell’s first goal in a Chicago Steel uniform. Farrell’s goal was assisted by De. St. Phalle.

Sean Farrell goes short side shelf and gives the @ChicagoSteel their lead back! #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/QMcKT9tqti

— USHL (@USHL) September 29, 2019

At the 15:48 mark of the second period, Colangelo netted his first of the season after he took a pass from Fontaine and buried a shot passed Adams, giving the Steel a 3–1 lead heading into the second intermission.

Sam Colangelo completes the odd man rush with his first of the season to increase the @ChicagoSteel lead to 3-1. #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/CZ2WotHQP7

— USHL (@USHL) September 29, 2019

Forward Isaac Henkemeyer-Howe shortened the Steel lead to 3–2 early in the third period, but that would be the final puck to sneak by Shane the rest of the game.

Farrell sealed the deal with an empty-net goal late in the contest, giving Chicago the 4–2 victory in the Clark Cup rematch and a perfect record on the weekend at 2–0. Shane stopped 20 shots earning the victory.

The Steel will open up on home ice at Fox Valley Ice Arena on Saturday, as the Green Bay Gamblers come to town. This will be the only action for Chicago over the weekend.

The post Chicago Steel beat Sioux City and Sioux Falls at USHL Classic appeared first on The Rink.

Steel General Manager Ryan Hardy is optimistic about the roster littered with veterans and rookies.

“There is a long way for us to go to get where we want to be, but we believe the 23 players on our team have the talent and mental makeup to get us where we need to be,” Hardy said. “We have a nice mix of veteran players to blend with a lot of young talent. We’re excited to get to work.”

Here is the Chicago Steel’s roster:

The post Chicago Steel announce roster before the USHL Fall Classic appeared first on The Rink.

Chicago struggled early on Friday, as forwards Alexandros Gaffney and Danil Gushchin opened the scoring for the Lumberjacks. The lead would not last long as the Steel answered back with two goals of their own.

Forward Josh Doan buried the Steel’s first goal after a nice feed from defenseman Jimmy Dowd, Jr. The goal, at the 12:28 mark of the first period, was followed by a forward Elis Hede goal less than five minutes later. The tally, assisted by forward Gunnarwolfe Fontaine, tied the game at 2–2 heading into the first intermission.

Chicago would take their only lead of the game early in the second period after Brendan Brisson fired home a shot off a rebound in front of the net. That lead would not last long as forwards Alex Konovalov and Tanner Edwards scored 1:50 apart to give the Lumberjacks a 4–3 lead.

After the Edwards goal, Chicago goaltender Reilly Herbst was replaced in net by Jack Williams. Williams would surrender one goal on 15 shots to finish the 5–3 loss on the road.

Back home at Fox Valley Ice Arena on Saturday night, both teams had their early chances in the first period but could not capitalize.

Muskegon forward Tanner Edwards scored the first goal of the game less than four minutes into the second period, beating Chicago netminder Ian Shane. The goal gave Muskegon the 1–0 lead.

Shane would be replaced by goaltender Victor Osman after stopping nine of 10 shots on the night. The goaltender change was part of the game plan and not due to performance. Osman looked sharp in his action, stopping 14 of 16 shots the rest of the contest.

Top Phase II draft pick Sean Farrell scored his first goal in a Steel uniform to tie the game at 1–1. The unassisted goal was followed up by another unassisted goal when 16 year old forward Matthew Samoskevich also scored his first goal for the Steel this exhibition.

Chicago took their 2–1 lead into the third period but would relinquish an early goal to Muskegon forward James McIsaac and then surrendered the lead when Alex Gaffney beat Ostman midway through the period.

Down 3–2, Fontaine buried his first of the preseason, on the power play, at the 14:06 mark of the period to force an overtime frame. The goal was assisted by Hede and Samoskevich.

In overtime, Brisson finished off the contest with a power play goal only 1:31 seconds into the extra frame. The goal, assisted by defenseman Luke Reid and Farrell, gave the Steel redemption for their loss the prior night.

ICYMI – Chicago Steel First Star of the Game Brendan Brisson after tallying the overtime game-winner on Saturday night against Muskegon:https://t.co/qGzlTpzGuK@brendan_brisson #WeAreSteel

— Chicago Steel (@ChicagoSteel) September 16, 2019

Chicago will take the ice for another exhibition contest against the Madison Capitols, on home ice, on Sept. 20 at 7:05 p.m. CT. Both teams will face off again the following night in Madison, also at 7:05 p.m. CT.

The post Chicago Steel split exhibition games with Muskegon Lumberjacks appeared first on The Rink.

Chicago will open at home on Oct. 5 when the Green Bay Gamblers come to the Fox Valley Ice Arena in Geneva, Illinois. The Steel’s first official road game will be the following Friday, Oct. 11, when the team travels to Green Bay, Wisconsin, to take on the Gamblers.

In the first annual outdoor Frosty Cup, hosted by the Dallas Stars, the Chicago Steel will square off against the Green Bay Gamblers in the historical Cotton Bowl in Dallas. The teams will matchup on Jan. 2 as well before playing the outdoor game on Jan. 3.

The USHL will be comprised of an Eastern and Western Conference with eight teams in each conference. This is one less than last season, as the Central Illinois Flying Aces disbanded after last season.

The 62-game schedule features 29 homes games for Steel fans to come on out and cheer on their 2019 Clark Cup runner-up team.

The post Chicago Steel release 2019–20 regular season schedule appeared first on The Rink.

Eleventh, and last, in the series of prospect profiles is center/wing Jack Hughes.

Jack Hughes
2018–19 Team: Team USA U18
Date of Birth: May 14, 2001
Place of Birth: Orlando, Florida
Height: 5-foot-10
Weight: 170 pounds
Shoots: Left
Position: Center
NHL Central Scouting Scouting: !st, North American skaters
NHL comparable: Connor McDavid-lite

Jack Hughes’ elite skills set him apart from everyone else in the 2019 NHL Draft. Right wing Kaapo Kakko made a late run at the top spot by working his magic in the Worlds and against men in Finland. However, when New Jersey steps to the podium, it would me a major shock if Hughes’ name was not called.

An offensive wizard, Hughes has elite skating ability and off the charts hockey IQ. The Orlando, Florida native can reach top speed, a la Connor McDavid, in a blink of an eye. What makes him so dangerous is his ability to make plays at his top speed. His fluid stride and pound for pound strength make him tough to knock off the puck.

His vision is clearly superior to others in the draft. Hughes is able to find small holes in the defense that many others are not willing to go to or do not see. With the puck, Hughes reminds many of Patrick Kane as he makes passes that others would not see let alone make. Hughes is an expert at drawing defenses to himself or dangling to find time to make plays.

Hughes has the definition of “soft hands.” His ability to stickhandle in a paper bag is quite impressive to watch. The puck is in constant movement and next to impossible to take away from him while he finds the opening to make a play.

A quick release and bullseye accuracy allow him to beat unsuspecting goalies. Think: deadly accurate with his shot. Hughes’ wrist shot is only going to get better with strength and will be a great weapon for him. A team’s power play will run through him at the NHL level as he instinctively orchestrates movement around the offensive zone.

Hughes’ physicality is minimal but willingness to battle for loose pucks in front of the net and work hard along the boards to retrieve pucks is in his DNA. His determination outweighs his body mass. Hughes looks to have the intestinal fortitude to be great, work hard and take pride in his own zone.

Projection

Top-line center with Art Ross Trophy capabilities.

Hughes may not be the sure thing like McDavid or Sidney Crosby were coming out of the draft but he is close. The ability to control games when he’s on the ice will set him apart early in his career as he adjusts to playing at the highest level. He may take some time to see himself engulfed with the elite players at the top of the leaderboards, but his time should come.

Implications for the Blackhawks

None.

If Hughes drops to No. 3 in the draft, the Chicago Blackhawks organization should run to the podium and conduct a dance-off between Stan Bowman and Mark Kelley while John McDonough sings karaoke.

Also, anyone thinking the Blackhawks could trade up to No. 1 with their assets clearly should stop watching hockey.

He’ll end up in the Eastern Conference so enjoy his talents and root for him 80 games out of the year.

What others are saying

…many are calling the next Patrick Kane. His parents both played the game and his father is an ex-Bruins coach and minor pro coach, …gets things done with strong hands, terrific vision and quick feet. Great anticipation and the ability to hold pucks on his stick no matter where he ventures. He steers pucks through traffic; his terrific vision and edging make opponents scramble to where the play is going to open into a solid look. He can come to a dead stop, watch a crowd converge on his space, and wire a puck to the open spot of net. Has a terrific shot when he uses it too.
Bill Placzek – Draftsite

The post Draft prospect profile: Jack Hughes appeared first on The Rink.

Ninth in the series of prospect profiles is center/wing Alex Turcotte

Alex Turcotte
2018–19 Team:  U. S. National U18 Team “A”
Date of Birth: February 26, 2001
Place of Birth: Island Lake, Illinois
Height: 5-foot-11
Weight: 185 pounds
Shoots: Left
Position: Center
NHL Central Scouting final ranking: No. 4, North American Skaters
NHL comparable: Claude Giroux

Center Alex Turcotte is an interesting study in hockey scouting. The Island Lake, Illinois native piled up the points when he was in the lineup for Team USA U18’s this past season. Turcotte finished the year with 96 points in 53 games played, culminating in 39 goals. In the World Juniors, in seven games the highly-skilled center did not disappoint (4 goals, 5 assists). The question that comes with the center is where does he fall on draft boards of many “experts.”

Without a doubt, Turcotte will be drafted in the first round, just like his father Alfie in the 1983 NHL Draft by the Montreal Canadiens. What many don’t agree on is his ceiling when it comes to his NHL career. Here’s what we do know:

Turcotte is an excellent skater. He keeps his feet moving and does an excellent job of playing bigger than his size (5-foot-11, 183 pounds). His first step is quick, his acceleration is top-notch and his stride strength is fantastic. The motor is always running at top speed. The lower body injury that forced him to miss games early this past season does not appear to have any effect on his skating.

Although not an elite shot, Turcotte does use his wrist shot and slap shot with great accuracy. He displays a nice soft touch with the puck on his stick. The center shows that he can score a wide variety of ways, especially taking advantage of his toughness on rebounds in front of the net. Turcotte is not afraid to go to the “tough” areas on the ice.

There may not be a player that gets it “between the ears” better than Turcotte in the draft. His ability to think the game one step ahead is a plus in his game. Teammates can expect no-look passes on their stick for easy tap ins. Turcotte shows a nice “read” on his opponents, as well. This shows up in his checking game. His ability to get in passing lanes and force turnovers is a great part of the effect he can have on a game.

Defensively, Turcotte shows the tenacity that sets him apart from others in this draft. His willingness to play along the boards, in front of the net and force turnovers in the neutral zone may be second-to-none amongst picks this draft. He is an effective penalty killer who displays a willingness to do whatever it takes to kill of penalties that is reminiscent of Jonathan Toews. The word unstoppable comes to mind when thinking about his drive on defense.

Projection

This is where some “experts” differ in their evaluation of Turcotte. There may not be a prospect with such a difference in projections from ceiling to floor.

Here’s the ceiling for those that like him:
Turcotte projects as an all-around weapon as a pivot. His ability to make plays on offense, play a relentless defensive game and show up on both special teams makes him a potential world-class No. 1 center. Think Patrice Bergeron or Pavel Datsyuk.

Here’s the floor of those that are “lukewarm” on him:
A second-line center that will score and do some nice things on special teams. His injury history could be a concern and his slight frame will hinder his development into a top-line center. Think Nico Hischier. Or he could be a very good playmaking wing, like Giroux.

Implications for the Blackhawks

Chicago has some very good options at forward with the No. 3 pick. Turcotte could be at the top of that list. Kirby Dach and Dylan Cozens could also hear their names called by the Blackhawks. If Chicago decides to go with Turcotte you can expect him to head to the University of Wisconsin to fine tune his game and work on his strength to play against men at the next level. This pick—as with most players in this top 10—would not be about next season.

With Toews signed for signed until 2023 (and possibly beyond after this contract ends), Turcotte would be allowed to grow under one of the best two-way centers of his generation. Toews showing Turcotte the ropes would be priceless. Then, when Captain Serious loses a step (and we saw him struggle for two seasons before last year), Turcotte might be ready to step in and take the reins as the top force at center for the Blackhawks.

President and CEO of the Blackhawks, John McDonough, could sell a lot of tickets and jerseys with the Illinois native. Don’t think this is not something that has been whispered throughout the organization. The team will never come out and say such, and the media will never uncover it, but McDonough has had his fingerprints all over the roster before—you can’t rule it out here. However, with as much anticipation and high expectation that have been attached to this pick, this front office and the Blackhawk brand can’t afford a “miss” that would be ascribed to a “pr move.”

If the Hawks take Turcotte at #3, it should only be because he is absolutely the best player available.

What others are saying

”  . . . a 200 foot centre with decent size and elite feet and hands . . . has built a two-way game. His high end skill, balance, explosive feet and terrific touch and handles in tight spaces, is enough to make NHL suitors think the end product is going to something special. Has seen action as a winger. Committed to the University of Wisconsin.”
Bill Placzek – DraftSite.com

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Seventh in the series of prospect profiles is center/wing Dylan Cozens

Dylan Cozens
2018–19 Team: Lethbridge Hurricanes
Date of Birth: February 9, 2001
Place of Birth: Whitehorse, YT, Canada
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 183 pounds
Shoots: Right
Position: Center/Wing

NHL Central Scouting final ranking: NHL Central Scouting Rank No. 5 – North American Skaters

NHL comparable: Jeff Carter

Dylan Cozens is a rare combination of size, speed, strength and skill. The 6-foot-3 183 pound forward scored 34 goals in 68 games for the Lethbridge Hurricanes this past season. Cozens uses his size to find space in front of the net, fighting off defenders for loose pucks and hard fought goals. The Whitehorse, Yukon native can also use his speed to beat defenders with a second gear that many could not handle in the WHL.

Cozens ability to play in all three zones is something that is overlooked because of his size and speed coming up the ice. He has a long reach and almost freakish strength at 183 pounds, that will be a plus at the NHL level. Cozens flashes the ability to overpower and take pucks away from opponents. But although he has an appetite for physical play, he is not a player who will take himself out of position by playing recklessly.

When compared with fellow WHL’er Kirby Dach, what jumps out is that while Cozens might not quite match Dach’s hands and smoothness, he has a powerful base and looks more projectable as a sheer power player—with ample skill. And like Dach, he might not be far from NHL ready in terms of physical maturity.

For as good as he is without the puck or when shooting, Cozens is a crafty playmaker. He plays a simple game with the puck and does not try to force plays. Cozens takes what the defense gives him. Whether it’s a dump in, an impressive dangle or using his speed, he is a weapon that can beat a defense many different ways.

Projection

Top line center/wing.

At barely 18 and with plenty of room to fill out his large frame, Cozens’ unique package of raw skills and physical attributes presents the team drafting him with several creative options. He could be effective strictly as an up and down sheer speed winger with added size and strength, a la former Edmonton Oiler Ryan Smyth. Or he may, potentially, be a foundational center man in the mold of Jonathan Toews. Or, on the lower end projection, a really good 2nd line center who can move out to wing, like Jeff Carter.

Ranking Cozens has been something of a puzzle to many pundits. Cozens has been ranked as high as No. 3 and as low as No. 12. He is, regardless, a high floor player, because of his size/speed combination and high end skill. The question is how high his ceiling is, and at what position(s).

Implications for the Blackhawks

With a need for a center that can play with size and speed, the Chicago Blackhawks should entertain serious consideration toward drafting Cozens with the No. 3 pick in the draft. Having Jonathan Toews on hand to mentor Cozens would be a plus. Cozens can learn the small things that make a player with size and speed successful at the NHL level. His ability to play right wing could also facilitate a faster jump to the NHL level more quickly, especially with Toews and Dylan Strome most likely holding down the top two center spots in the near future.

Do not be surprised if Cozens comes off the board at No. 3. And don’t be disappointed if he does.

While most Hawk tweeters have “narrowed” the team’s choices to Alex Turcotte and Bowen Byram, the fact is, the team has analyzed Cozens (and others) closely. That said, with the possible exception of consensus second overall selection Kappo Kaako, no player in this draft projects as more of a physical force with speed and skill. They say “the game has changed,” favoring speed and skill—which Cozens has in abundance—while also having the size and strength that are still necessary to help a team win Stanley Cups.

What others are saying

“Dylan Cozens is a consistent player who has very good finishing ability. He has good vision and can be dominant below the dots. His cycle game and his ability to get to the net stand out as hallmarks of his game.”
—McKeens Hockey Draft Guide

“This man child isn’t through filling in or building his muscle. Makes everyone around him better. Will cause problems in front, or from the perimeters. Exploits the defense and reads linemates well. Fluid non-stop player who plays hockey smart and would fly through a wall to help his team win. Can project as a big centre as well as a big wing. The sky’s the limit.”

—Bill Placzek, draftsite.com

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Fifth in the series of prospect profiles is left wing Matthew Boldy

Matthew Boldy
2018–19 Team: U. S. National U18 Team “A”
Date of Birth: April 5, 2001
Place of Birth: Millis, Masschusetts
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 192
Shoots: Left
Position: Left Wing

NHL Central Scouting final ranking: No. 9 by NHL Central Scouting – North American Skaters

NHL comparable: Matthew Tkachuk

Matthew Boldy has the excellent all-around game that teams search for in a top six forward. The left wing showed his offensive prowess with 33 goals in 64 games played this past season. However, he does not just rely on his shooting ability to make in impact on the scoresheet. Boldy also garnered 48 assists and showed the ability to play with high skill players such as Jack Hughes and Alex Turcotte.

His shot is at an elite level and jumps of his the stick. Boldy shows a knack for scoring from anywhere on the ice and can pick even the tiniest of holes left open by opposing goaltenders. Boldy can stickhandle with most in this draft class. He shows an ability to make plays with defenders hanging on him and beat slower defenseman wide, usually after drawing the defender inside.

Finishing off his all-around game is his ability to play in all three zones effectively. His hockey IQ is elite and was given the responsibility to play in all big game situations, such as, the penalty kill, power play and late game situations. Boldy is tough along the boards and in front of the net, but does not seek out unnecessary contact. At 6-foot-2 and 192 pounds, Boldy has the frame that excels at the NHL level. With maturation and more weight room strength will be a handful for opponents.

Projection

It would not be far off to project Boldy as a 20-plus goal scorer at the NHL level. His shot is not the equal of Cole Caufield but he could beat many professional goaltenders consistently. With his size and skating, he can work up and down the top six forwards and play with very talented linemates. His skills on the power play and penalty kill will allow him the chance to play in many meaningful situations that help a hockey team win.

This draft was a tough one for Boldy. Any other year could have seen him higher on draft boards. Also playing behind some really talented forwards with Team USA has put Boldy in the shadow of others in the draft class.

Implications for the Blackhawks

The No. 3 pick has put Chicago in an excellent spot to draft a projectable elite talent. Is Boldy that kind of talent—in this draft? Maybe. He just does not come with the same name recognition as other options options that will be available. The Blackhawks are in desperate need of forwards that can play a team concept on defense and kill penalties and Boldy can do both.

If Chicago trades down out of the No. 3 spot then Boldy would be a nice pick. He would instantly become the top forward prospect in the organization and slot in nicely on the top six forwards, most likely after his stop at Boston College.

What others are saying

“He never overhandles the puck and he’s prepped and ready to attack, whether that’s the big shot, flipping a puck to himself or finding a teammate. To me he’s got to be one of the most exciting wingers this draft”

Team USA Head Coach John Wroblewski – NHL.com

The post Draft Prospect Profile: Left wing Matthew Boldy appeared first on The Rink.

Third in the series of prospect profiles is center/right wing Cole Caufield.

Cole Caufield
2018–19 Team: U. S. National U18 Team “A”
Date of Birth: January 2, 2001
Place of Birth: Stevens Point, Wisconsin
Height: 5-foot-7
Weight: 163 pounds
Shoots: Right
Position: Center/Right Wing

NHL Central Scouting final ranking: No. 8 per NHL Central Scouting – North American Skaters

NHL comparable: Theo Fleury

Cole Caufield scored 72 goals in 64 games this past season playing for the U18 program. That is an astounding number. Playing on a line with potential first overall pick Jack Hughes, and on a once-in-a-lifetime deep team, allowed Caufield to take advantage of his excellent shot. With that being said, his numbers would still have been impressive without Hughes.

Listed at 5-foot-7 and 163 pounds, Caufield does have a smaller frame on the surface. However, the Wisconsin native is solidly put together. In today’s NHL, we are seeing smaller players each year have success. A comparison to Alex DeBrincat, who scored with ease in juniors, would not be too far off, however, Caufield will not fall to the second round like DeBrincat.

Caufield uses his soft hands and excellent shot to bury a high percentage of his chances. What separates Caufield from many is his ability to find open ice to receive passes. His skating allows him to find open areas with good edge work and a nice, extra acceleration when needed. He also does a good job of keeping his feet moving when forced to play a contact game by the defense.

A little ball of energy on the ice, Caufield is far from a liability in his own zone. Many times taking on battles along the boards. As he matures, he will have some edge to his game even with the slight frame.

Projection

Goal scorer.

Caufield is going to score a lot of goals at the NHL level. His scoring ability is elite and projects as top line forward. On a stacked team up the middle, he’ll be able to switch to right wing, and with his size, may open up more opportunities to use his scoring talents. If playing center, his ability to get to the tough areas will be important. He appears to have the DNA to get into tough areas against his opponents and nothing in his game suggests that he would not against NHL level talent.

Caufield is also going to see plenty of time on the power play. He has the type of skills that Chicago fans have seen with Artemi Panarin on the man advantage. Although he needs to add strength, his one-timer is excellent. He can also bury wrist shots with ease, as the puck jumps off his stick. Even if it takes time for Caufield to adjust to 5-on-5 play in the NHL, he might still have a big, immediate impact on a team’s power play.

Implications for the Blackhawks

Chicago fans have been enamored with Caufield ever since the DeBrincat comparisons were made. Both are small-sized snipers. And they would likely play opposite sides. But, that being said, Chicago would need to pair each (or both) with skilled (i.e., top 6 quality), road-grader type forwards—a commodity that (outside of Jonathan Toews and Brandon Saad) the Hawks presently lack at both the NHL level and in the prospect pipeline—to help relieve some pressure off them and open up space. As we are seeing in the Stanley Cup finals, speed and skill are good, but sheer force is also needed to win in the NHL playoffs.

Reports have hinted at the fact that Chicago does like Caufield. That is not a surprise. He is a great talent in the draft. However, the question must be asked, how many smaller forwards can this team win with? Fans and pundits keep saying the game has changed (favoring smaller, slighter players). Yet the combined size and physicality of the Stanley Cup winner every year seems to suggest otherwise.  Could you build an elite team around Caufield and DeBrincat after Kane and Toews start to decline? If Chicago were to pick Caufield, then perhaps a greater focus would be necessary to finding true centers and larger, complementary top 6 forwards for the future in upcoming drafts and/or free agency.

But at No. 3 in the draft, Caufield would probably be a reach for the Blackhawks.

What others are saying

“Right now, a diminutive scorer with great wheels, passing hands, a feisty side and an incredible goal scoring ability. Hides his release point and shows great velocity and needs very little time or space to shoot and score. He plays heavy on his stick and displays a wicked backhand, a quick wrist shot and devastating one-timers. The Wisconsin native is committed to the University of Wisconsin, and size is NOT a concern.”
Bill Placzek – Draft Site

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First in the series of prospect profiles is defenseman Philip Broberg.

Philip Broberg
2018–19 Team: AIK Allsvenskan Swedish League
Date of Birth: June 25, 2001
Place of Birth: Orebro, Sweden
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 201 pounds
Shoots: Left
Position: Defenseman
NHL Central Scouting final ranking: No. 5 European Skaters
NHL comparable: Mattias Ekholm

At 17 years of age, the 6-foot-3 and 201 pound Broberg has an excellent frame to project as a monster on skates. His size and speed combo allows him to take away time and space while using his body effectively, both defending in front of the net and in the corners. His physicality suggests a shutdown type defender.

The Swedish defenseman has a knack for picking up pucks in his own zone and leading his team on breaks the other way in a blink of the eye. He reaches top speed quickly and has excellent power in his stride. Broberg also finds his teammates without losing stride and jumps into plays to become an extra forward on the attack.

Broberg uses his reach to his advantage in the defensive zone. His use of the stick is excellent and allows him to make plays along the boards and in tight to the net with ease. Broberg’s positioning is solid for a defenseman his age but the small intricacies of playing in the NHL will come with experience. He shows a solid feel for the power game and can be a handful for opponents with his strength.

With high hockey IQ, Broberg has a knack for making plays one step ahead. He has shown a tendency to try to make plays that are not there, something that will need to be fixed for the top league in the world, but he sees the game at an elite level. Most of the time, he makes the game appear that it is in slow motion to him. An important quality for a top pick at defense.

Projection
A good size-speed combo and the ability to play big minutes suggest a top 2 defenseman is Broberg’s ceiling. At worst, you are drafting a two-way defenseman that can kill penalties, play on the power play and log No. 3 defenseman type minutes.

Implications for the Blackhawks

Broberg would be a nice addition to the Blackhawks’ defensive prospect pipeline. He would instantly become the tallest, heaviest, most physical, and defensively astute of all Blackhawks’ defense prospects (and a couple of players on the NHL squad). With that being said, many draft analysts predict Broberg to be the second or third defenseman taken in the draft. He would be a reach at No. 3, but an intriguing option who fills a need, should Chicago trade down.

What others are saying

A big-bodied puck rusher with excellent speed and a physical component, Broberg is the perfect low-risk, high-reward rearguard. Some feel he’s destined to become a top-pairing NHL defenseman.
Steve Kournianos – The Draft Analyst

Highlights

2018 Gretzky-Hlinka and 2019 World Junior Championship Highlights

The post Draft Prospect Profile: Philip Broberg appeared first on The Rink.

Ryan Johnson – 6 feet, 161 pounds – Defenseman (54 games, six goals, 19 assists)
Johnson is the top defensive prospect in the USHL and it is not close. Johnson spent much of the season guiding the Clark Cup champion Sioux Falls Stampede in all situations. Johnson quarterbacked the power play, led the penalty kill and was thrust into all big situations. The California native is a smooth skater with an extra gear that takes him into an elite puck-moving defenseman. Johnson is active with his stick, shows excellent positioning and can bury his chances when pinching at the right time. Projected as a late first- or early second-round pick, the 17-year-old could be a steal for a team looking to give him time to develop his top-pairing skills.

Robert Mastrosimone – 5 feet 10 inches, 178 pounds – Center/left wing (54 games, 31 goals, 29 assists)
The Chicago Steel forward had a successful season with in the USHL playing on a line with overaged center Nick Abruzzese. Mastrosimone brings an excellent shot that will get better with strength. Mastrosimone is an offensive wizard that finds open spaces in the defense and buries his chances. The New York native shows good effort in all three zones and brings a toughness to his game that is bigger than his size. Projected late first- or second-round pick that showcases top-six forward skills and work ethic.

Bobby Brink – 5 feet 10 inches, 163 pounds – Right wing (43 games, 35 goals, 33 assists)
Brink showed a high-level offensive game. His skating level needs to improve but his work ethic and agility set him apart from most. The word “sniper” would describe the Minnesota native. Brink has a quick, accurate shot that jumps off his stick. Brink works hard in all three zones and has a ton of untapped potential if his skating becomes above average. Projected late first-round or early second-round that projects as a top-six forward needing some strength.

Egor Afanasyev – 6 feet 4 inches, 201 pounds – Forward (58 games, 27 goals, 35 assists)
Afanasyev plays with a high IQ and with a reckless abandoned when on the ice. The Russia native uses his good size to make plays in tight spaces and is a bull to play against along the boards and in front of the net. A true power forward type, Afanasyev also has excellent skating ability. He is a true combination of size and speed that plays out in the NHL playoffs. Projected second-round pick and a middle-six forward that can be a wrecking ball for opponents.

Vladislav Firstov – 6 feet, 183 pounds – Left wing (62 games, 26 goals, 32 assists)
The Yaroslavl, Russia, native brings a nice combination of size and scoring ability to his game. Firstov’s shot is heavy. He can beat goalies with his silky hands or bury his shot with authority. His shot can be NHL-ready early in his pro career. Firtov shows an excellent motor and plays tough in all three zones. With added strength, the forward projects as a top-six forward that could really blossom into a steal in the draft. Projected second-round pick with a ton of upside as a scoring winger that will play responsibly in his own zone.

Matias Maccelli – 5 feet 11 inches, 170 pounds – Forward (62 games, 31 goals, 41 assists)
The Finland native rose up draft boards with an excellent season with the Dubuque Fighting Saints. Maccelli is a smaller sized forward that displays good quickness as a 200-foot player. His willingness to use his linemates and set them up with his playmaking skills. Maccelli can be used on the power play, penalty kill and play an important role as he outworks his opponents. Projects as a second- or third-round middle-six forward that can be counted on in all situations and make plays with high skill teammates.

Isaiah Saville – 6 feet 1 inch, 194 pounds – Goaltender (34 games, 1.90 goals against average, .925 save percentage)
The right-handed goaltender had an excellent season for the Tri-City Storm. Saville combines excellent positioning and off-the-charts compete level to beat shooters. The Anchorage, Alaska, native shows excellent athleticism and can make saves with his reflexes that many his age dream about. Saville is quick on his pads and takes away angles very well. Projected second or third round pick that does not come with the size some teams covet but projects as an NHLer in his competitiveness and athleticism.

Ethan Phillips – 5 feet 9 inches, 146 pounds – Forward (50 games, 16 goals, 27 assists)
Phillips is an undersized forward that plays with speed. The forward from Nova Scotia, Canada, can make plays with the puck and stickhandle with anyone coming out of the USHL in the draft, even without losing speed. Shows an active skill set in the offensive zone, working hard to find teammates and open spots in the defense. Phillips uses his stick well on defense and plays a solid positional game in his own zone. Projected third-round pick that will need time to get stronger as a possible middle six forward.

Marcus Kallionkieli – 6 feet 1 inch, 176 pounds – Forward (58 games, 29 goals, 24 assists)
The Helsinki, Finland, native has an excellent offensive skillset. Kallionkieli works hard to find open spots in the defense and uses his smooth shot to his advantage. He displays good size and his shot should only improve with strength. For as much upside he has on the offensive side of the puck, his defensive skills are all average at best. His commitment in his own zone must increase in order to make an overall impact at the next level. Projected third- or fourth-round pick that can handle the third line for a team looking for someone that outscores his matchups.

Shane Pinto – 6 feet 2 inches, 188 pounds – Forward (56 games, 28 goals, 31 assists)
Pinto flew up draft boards with a solid season in the USHL this past season. The New York native uses his size to his advantage and will only increase with added size and strength. Pinto has good speed and can make plays at high speeds. Creative with the puck, Pinto shows a work ethic that makes him a tough player for opponents in all three zones. Projected third- or fourth-round pick that may have more upside than some of the players ranked ahead of him but needs to put it all together.

For more prospect news and an in-depth look at all the prospects for the NHL Entry Draft, check out Future Considerations here.

The post USHL Draft Notebook: Sizing up the USHL prospects in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft appeared first on The Rink.

Early in the first period, Steel forward Robert Mastrosimone went hard into the end boards and struggled to get to his feet. Mastrosimone would attempt another shift before being sent off to the dressing room for the remainder of the contest. The projected first or second round draft pick was a huge loss to the Steel’s game plan.

Sioux Falls scored first when forward Anthony Romano beat Steel goaltender Justin Robbins with his first goal of the playoffs. The power play goal was assisted by forwards Austen Swankler and Ethan Phillips.

Although outshooting the Stampede in the first period 11–4, the Steel entered the first intermission trailing 1–0.

The second period saw the Stampede extend their lead to 3–0 when right wing Blake Bride and center Sam Stevens both found the back of the net. The Stampede outshot the Steel 9–5 in the second period.

Early in the third period, Steel forward Josiah Slavin shortened the Stampede lead 3–1. The goal, assisted by forwards Nick Abruzzese and Gunnarwolfe Fontaine, was the Blackhawks prospect’s fourth goal of the playoffs.

With just under six minutes left in the game, Chicago head coach Greg Moore pulled Robbins in hopes of cutting into the Sioux Falls lead, but goals by Stampede forward Jared Westcott and defenseman Ryan Johnson would seal the deal for Sioux Falls.

Chicago finished the game outshooting Sioux Falls 21–17, but the Stampede would take the Clark Cup Final with the 5–1 victory.

The post Chicago Steel swept by Sioux Falls in Clark Cup Final appeared first on The Rink.

The Chicago Steel fell behind after the Sioux Falls Stampede scored a pair of second period goals and could not score in the final seconds after the Stampede retook the lead, falling 3–2.

The Stampede controlled much of the first period as both teams appeared to a bit rusty after a few days off between the Conference Final and the Clark Cup Final. Sioux Falls outshot Chicago 10–4 in the first period, but neither team was able to find the back of the net in the period.

Sioux Falls forwards Carl Berglund and Andre Lee scored in the first seven minutes of the second period giving the Stampede a 2–0 lead.

.@sfstampede SCORE
Check out GOAL from ICE LEVEL #ClarkCup #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/fZkBd4zuPW

— USHL (@USHL) May 11, 2019

Andre Lee keeps the goal going!#BeHerd pic.twitter.com/W8YlSMw27L

— Sioux Falls Stampede (@sfstampede) May 11, 2019

At the 11:04 mark in the second period, Steel forward Josiah Slavin put the visitors on the board after beating Stampede goaltender Jaxson Stauber. The goal, assisted by forwards Gunnarwolfe Fontaine and Mathieu De St. Phalle, was Slavin’s third goal of the postseason.

Josiah Slavin gets @chicagosteel on the board! #ClarkCup #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/arbRprVm12

— USHL (@USHL) May 11, 2019

Chicago tied the score early in the third period when defenseman John Spetz beat Stauber with a blast from the point. The goal, assisted by defenseman Owen Power, gave Spetz three goals in the playoffs.

That thing had smoke comin' off it! @chicagosteel John Spetz with a blast to even this game up at #ClarkCup #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/iH58z5JsrC

— USHL (@USHL) May 11, 2019

Stampede forward Jared Westcott scored with just under five minutes to play in the game to give the home team the 3–2 lead late in the game. Chicago put a ton of pressure on the Stampede but could not tie the game. With the victory, the Stampede took a 1–0 lead in the Clark Cup Final.

Jared Westcott! And the Herd are back on top!

pic.twitter.com/W81MaBwP0z

— Sioux Falls Stampede (@sfstampede) May 11, 2019

Sioux Falls 3, Chicago 2 (OT2)

After losing the first game of the Final, the Steel came out and scored the first goal of Game 2, but could not take back home-ice advantage after falling to Sioux Falls 3–2 in double overtime. The hard-fought game was an instant classic for USHL fans.

Fontaine continued his hot playoff scoring his sixth goal of the postseason. Forward Robert Mastrosimone and defenseman Uula Ruikka assisted on the play. The goal gave the Steel their first lead of the Clark Cup Final.

Gunnarwolfe Fontaine sends one howlinnnnnn' off the post and in @chicagosteel lead 1⃣-0⃣ after #ClarkCup #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/DSTztnIScC

— USHL (@USHL) May 12, 2019

The Steel would outshoot the Stampede 12–6 in the second period, but the home team was the only team to score in the period when defenseman Max Crozier beat Steel goaltender Justin Robbins, at the 15:41 mark of the period. The Crozier goal was the Providence College commit’s fourth goal of the playoffs.

Max Crozier gets Sioux Falls on the board with a blast from the point @sfstampede ties it at #ClarkCup #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/TeWg5Eim56

— USHL (@USHL) May 12, 2019

Mastrosimone took back the lead for the Steel with his seventh goal of the playoffs, beating Stauber blocker side on the power play. The goal was assisted by Fontaine.

Mastrosimone out here poppin' bottles with a one-timer snipe on the PP! @chicagosteel #ClarkCup #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/1yW1j2Y3a8

— USHL (@USHL) May 13, 2019

The Stampede tied the game with just under three minutes left in the game when forward Sam Stevens beat Robbins with an unassisted goal, scoring off the draw as the referee dropped the puck.

Blink and you'll miss it
Sam Stevens off the puck drop!! @sfstampede tie this game to force #ClarkCup Final OVERTIME pic.twitter.com/DWY9U4TqCi

— USHL (@USHL) May 13, 2019

Both teams would fend off chances throughout the first overtime, forcing a second overtime. At the 16:05 mark in the second overtime, Lee beat Robbins glove side for the 3–2 victory and a 2–0 lead in the Clark Cup Final.

Andre Lee is the DOUBLE OVERTIME HERO @sfstampede take a 2-0 series lead in the #ClarkCup Final #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/qmOU5TBFEZ

— USHL (@USHL) May 13, 2019

The post Chicago falls in double overtime, trails Clark Cup Final 2–0 appeared first on The Rink.

The Steel advanced to the Final with a 3–1 series win over the Eastern Conference regular season champions Muskegon Lumberjacks, as forward Gunnarwolfe Fontaine scored the overtime winner in Game 4.

“It felt amazing just to be able to go to the Clark Cup,” Fontaine said. “Scoring the game-winning goal was amazing.”

Sioux Falls swept the Tri-City Storm in the Western Conference Final to advance to the Clark Cup Final, having no problem with the Western Conference top seed.

Chicago has taken the time off to prepare and regroup again for the upcoming series. The team has a good game plan in place that has worked already in the playoffs.

“Our goalie coach, Mike Garman, does a great job of getting us ready for the opposing goaltender,” Fontaine said. “This week, we had a nice day off on Sunday, have worked hard on the ice and weight room and have taken some free time to regroup for the Clark Cup.”

A key to the Chicago’s playoff success has been their great defensive pressure in their own end and goaltending.

Of note, Steel goaltender Justin Robbins has been outstanding.

“Robbins has been unreal,” Fontaine said. “He’s awesome right now!”

However, the forward knows that an overall game will be important against the Stampede.

Fontaine noted the Steel need to continue their consistent play in order to be successful in the Final.

“Carrying over our offense and strong defensive effort will be key,” Fontaine said. “We need to be solid on defense and keep outworking our opponent.”

Chicago looks to avenge their two regular season losses to Sioux Falls. With the team’s defensive commitment and ability to score against any team, Chicago has a great opportunity the next few weeks.

Chicago Steel players to watch:

Nick Abruzzese — The team regular season leading scorer has not slowed down in the playoffs. The Harvard commit has 13 points (seven goals, six assists) in eight games played. The seven goals lead the team. The top-line center will be thrust into all high pressure situations and will play a major role in the outcome of the series.

Robert Mastrosimone — The Boston University commit is tied with Abruzzese for the team lead in points with 13 (six goals, seven assists) and has kept up with his offensive chances while leading the team with 26 shots in the playoffs. Mastrosimone play a nice 200-foot game with solid back check and chases the puck well with an active stick.

Matteo Pietroniro — Pietroniro leads all Steel defenseman in points (nine) and assists (eight). The Boise, Idaho, native also leads the Steel with three assists on the power play. The team captain will look to continue to play big minutes on the backend. Pietroniro is the backbone of the defensive unit. Look for the captain to once again play a major role in the series outcome.

Justin Robbins — Robbins has been spectacular in the playoffs with a 2.31 goals against average, while supporting a .918 save percentage. The Quinnipiac commit has been started every game for the Steel this playoff, culminating in six victories. The experience gained over from the past seasons has really shown in Robbins’ game.

Gunnarwolfe Fontaine — After scoring the game-winning overtime goal against the Muskegon Lumberjacks, the left-handed shooting forward looks to continue his solid start in the playoffs. The Northeastern University commit has scored eight points (five goals, three assists) in the Steel’s six games. If there ever was a quiet assassin in this series, Fontaine could be the one.

Sioux Falls players to watch:

Max Crozier — The defenseman leads all Sioux Falls players with 10 points (three goals, seven assists) this playoff. The Providence College commit has registered five power play points (two goals, three assists) and is the only Stampede player averaging at least a point per game (1.11).

Andre Lee — The forward leads the Stampede in goals in the playoffs with seven. Lee also leads Sioux Falls in power play goals with three. The University of Massachusetts-Lowell commit is also lead the team with a 23 percent shooting percentage.

Jaxson Stauber — Stauber has been outstanding this playoffs for the Stampede. The Minnesota State commit has posted a 1.49 goals against average and a .943 percent save percentage. The Steel will look to solve the hot goaltender this series.

The Clark Cup Final dates: (best of five)
Game 1 — Chicago at Sioux Falls on Friday, May 10, at 7:05 p.m.
Game 2 — Chicago at Sioux Falls on Sunday, May 12, at 5:05 p.m.
Game 3 — Sioux Falls at Chicago on Friday, May 17, at 7:05 p.m.
Game 4 — Sioux Falls at Chicago on Saturday, May 18, at 7:05 p.m. (if necessary)
Game 5 — Chicago at Sioux Falls on Tuesday, May 21, at 7:05 p.m. (if necessary)

The post Clark Cup preview: Chicago Steel vs. Sioux Falls Stampede appeared first on The Rink.

Chicago selected three players in the second round, starting with forward Jack Harvey (Round 2, 19^th overall). Harvey is a forward from Stacy, Minnesota, and recorded 37 points (15 goals, 22 assists) in 13 games played this season.

Jackson Blake (Round 2, 22^nd overall) was Chicago’s second selection of the second round. The forward from Eden Prairie, Minnesota, played 27 games for Shattuck St. Mary’s U15 team this season recording 24 points (10 goals, 14 assists) in 24 games. Jackson in the son of former NHL player Jason Blake, who played 871 games in the NHL.

With their last pick in the second round, Chicago selected Sam Lipkin from Lafayette Hill, Pennsylvania. The 6-foot-1 left wing played 41 games for the Philadelphia Jr. Flyers, where he scored 69 points (36 goals, 33 assists) for the season. Lipkin also played prep hockey at La Salle College High.

Chicago’s next selection did not come until the fifth round when Brad Lambert (Round 5, 62^nd overall) was selected out of Lahti, Finland. The forward played for three different Pelican teams in Finland this season.

Thor Byfuglien rounded out Chicago’s fifth round selections when he was selected with the 62^nd overall pick. The Roseau, Minnesota, native is the second cousin to former Chicago Blackhawks player Dustin Byfuglien. Byfuglien played for the Roseau Bantam AA team this season recording 45 points (15 goals, 30 assists) in 50 games as a defenseman.

With the next three selections, Chicago selected forwards Michael Abgrall (Round 6, 87^th overall), Parker Murray (Round 7, 102^nd overall) and defenseman Brendan Fitzgerald (Round 8, 117^th overall) to finish out their Phase I Draft.

Abgrall, a Richmond, British Columbia, native, skated in 29 games for the Burnaby Winter Club Elite 15’s this season. The forward registered 48 points (26 goals, 22 assists) before also playing in five games for the Powell River Kings of the British Columbia Hockey League.

A native of Los Angeles, California, Murray played three seasons with the Los Angeles Jr. Kings. With the U16 team this season, Murray tallied 17 points (14 goals, three assists) in 23 games. Murray also scored 42 points (21 goals, 21 assists) for the Bantam AAA program in 45 games.

Fitzgerald played in 18 games for the Islanders Hockey Club 16U of the United States Premier Hockey League. The North Reading, Massachusetts, native is the son of former NHL veteran Tom Fitzgerald, who played 1,097 NHL games.

“I’m very pleased with the nine players that we were able to add to our franchise in today’s Phase I Draft,” said Steel General Manager Ryan Hardy. “In preparation for the draft, our scouting department built a 25-player list and we were able to get through all eight rounds without deviating from it. This speaks to the preparation and professionalism of Tristan Musser, Vinny Smith and the rest of our scouting staff. Steel fans have a lot of prospects to be excited about for years to come.”

Chicago is will also partake in the Phase II Draft today. Chicago will also hold their annual Tryout Camp on June 6–9 at Fox Valley Ice Arena.

The post Chicago Steel select nine players in USHL Phase I Draft appeared first on The Rink.

“We stole a game by tying it late and finding a way in overtime with a real nice play from Mastro (Robert Mastrosimone),” said Chicago forward Nick Abruzzese. “We got into some penalty troubles and it was important to get that game. It’s now a best-of-three series.”

Chicago has taken the five days between games to regroup and sharpen up their overall game in practice.

The team did not skate on Monday after a late night of travel back from Muskegon but will practice each day leading up to Friday’s game with the Lumberjacks.

“It’s been nice to have some time off to recover,” Abruzzese said. “If we stay out of the penalty box we can be very successful as a team. Five-on-five we can play fast through the neutral zone and use that to our advantage.”

With home-ice advantage back in the Steel’s favor, Friday will be a hard-fought contest between two very talented teams. Both Chicago and Muskegon are filled with next level players that have already been drafted or will hear their names called this summer.

Chicago Blackhawks fans can come out and get a look at two of their prospects already in the organization in Muskegon forward Mikael Hakkarainen and Chicago forward Josiah Slavin.

This year’s NHL Draft will most likely bring the names of Abruzzese, Mastrosimone, Egor Afanasyev, Jackson LaCombe and Alex Yakovenko to the forefront on draft night. However, both teams have plenty of unfinished business.

“Putting in the hard work and being recognized is pretty cool, but, at the same time, it does not mean anything for this weekend,” Abruzzese said. “I try to be the best player I can be and help our team win.”

The post The Steel Deal: Chicago heads home with series tied 1–1 for games for Games 3 and 4 appeared first on The Rink.

The Chicago Steel fell behind 2–0 early with two power play goals from Chicago Blackhawks forward prospect Mikael Hakkarainen but fought back for a 5–4 overtime victory. The Steel received the game-tying goal from forward Josiah Slavin, another Blackhawks prospect, with 2.9 seconds left in regulation before forward Nick Abruzzese scored the game winner in overtime.

Hakkarainen’s two late-first-period goals finished off a sluggish start by the Steel. Chicago was outshot in the first period 17–8 and only killed off one of the three penalties taken in the frame. Steel goaltender Justin Robbins made several key saves throughout the period, otherwise, the score could have really gotten away from Chicago.

Back back from HAKK @muskegonjacks lead 2-0 #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/vETVq3dfhI

— USHL (@USHL) April 27, 2019

Steel forward Gunnarwolfe Fontaine scored his second goal of the playoffs, shortening the Muskegon lead to 2–1, taking a nice pass from defenseman Matteo Pietroniro before beating Lumberjacks netminder Brandon Bussi.

Another power play goal by Muskegon extended the Lumberjacks lead back to two goals before Slavin scored his first of two goals on the evening to cut the Muskegon lead back to one goal.

Muskegon scored early in the third period when forward Bobby Lynch scored his second goal of the postseason.

Only 12 seconds later, Abruzzese scored his fourth goal of the playoffs with a goal assisted by Pietroniro.

Pietroniro with a perfect two-line pass to Abruzzese @chicagosteel quick to respond #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/naLesy4FmK

— USHL (@USHL) April 28, 2019

The game-tying power play goal, with under three seconds left in the game, gave Slavin his second goal of the game, on the power play, assisted by Pietroniro and Fontaine.

OVERTIME WINNER
Abruzzese wasn't taking any chances this time… It's good @chicagosteel lead the series 1⃣-0⃣ #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/k4clHpav7t

— USHL (@USHL) April 28, 2019

Chicago took a 1–0 series lead when Abruzzese scored the overtime game-winner, assisted by forward Robert Mastrosimone and defenseman Luke Reid.

Muskegon outshot Chicago 40–34 for the game, while Robbins stopped 36 shots for the victory.

Muskegon 3, Chicago 2

The Lumberjacks wasted no time when forward Jagger Joshua scored 19 seconds into the opening frame. The goal, assisted by forward Ryan Savage and defenseman Declan Carlile.

The early Lumberjacks goal did not put Chicago on their heals, as Mastrosimone buried his fourth goal of the season, assisted by Fontaine and Slavin.

Hakkarainen took back the lead at the 13:01 mark in the first period with his fourth goal of the playoffs and third of the series.

Muskegon would extend their lead to 3–1 when forward Jack Williams scored his second goal of the playoffs. The goal was the only goal of the second period.

Fontaine put Chicago on the board early in the third period, with his third goal of the season, on the power play goal assisted by Abruzzese and Slavin.

Gunnarwolfe Fontaine sends one howlin' past Bussi for the PPG! @chicagosteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/26un4x5pUN

— USHL (@USHL) April 28, 2019

Chicago continued to push the pressure on Muskegon to tie the game during the rest of the period but the Steel could not solve Bussi for the game-tying goal.

Muskegon outshot Chicago 31–26 for the game.

The series returns to Fox Valley Ice Arena for Game 3 on Friday, May 3 for a 7:05 p.m. puck drop. Game 4 is scheduled for Saturday, May 4 at 7:05 p.m. at Fox Valley Ice Arena. With the series tied 1–1, Chicago looks to take advantage of the home-ice advantage they took back from Muskegon.

The post Chicago wins series opener in Muskegon, series tied 1–1 appeared first on The Rink.

Chicago 3, Cedar Rapids 1

Forward Christian Sarlo scored his second goal of the series at the 6:07 mark in the first period when he fired a shot past RoughRiders goaltender Blake Pietila. The goal, assisted by forward Cole Quisenberry and defenseman Owen Power, was the first of two goals in just over one minute.

Finnish defenseman Uula Ruikka fired his second goal of the season, extending the Chicago lead to 2–1, with assists from defenseman Luke Reid and forward Jake Schmaltz.

Chicago outshot Cedar Rapids 9–8 heading into the first intermission. After the break, the RoughRiders came out firing, scoring the only goal of the second period when forward Aidan McDonough scored his fourth goal of the season, finally beating Robbins.

Early in the third period, forward Gunnarwolfe Fontaine buried a shot past Pietila, extending the Chicago lead to 3–1. The goal, assisted by defenseman John Spetz and forward Josiah Slavin, was all the Steel needed to hold off the RoughRiders and take a 2–1 series lead heading into game four on Wednesday night.

Chicago 4, Cedar Rapids 1

Chicago’s regular season scoring leader Nick Abruzzese fired his third goal of the playoffs past Pietila with only 10.4 seconds left in the first period to give Chicago the 1–0 lead. The goal was assisted by Mastrosimone and captain Matteo Pietroniro.

Abruzzese scores with just 1⃣1⃣ seconds left in the first! @chicagosteel leads 1-0 #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/2ucQPLiUYW

— USHL (@USHL) April 25, 2019

At the 1:38 mark in the second period, Spetz scored his second goal of the playoffs, giving Chicago their only power play goal of the evening. Forwards Mathieu De St. Phalle and Adam Robbins assisted on the goal.

RoughRiders forward Jack O’Leary cut the Chicago lead to one goal when he fired a shot past Robbins, at the 18:50 mark of the second period, but that would again be the only goal to slip past Robbins, who played outstanding again this evening.

Mastrosimone scored twice in the third period to seal the series victory for Chicago. The Steel outplayed the RoughRiders for much of the game, outshooting Cedar Rapids 26–18 for the game, while killing off all five power plays the RoughRiders were handed.

With the victory, Chicago faces off against the Eastern Conference regular season champion Muskegon Lumberjacks in the best-of-five series in the Eastern Conference final. Chicago won the last two regular season matchups against Muskegon.

Eastern Conference Final Schedule

Game 1: Chicago at Muskegon – Saturday, April 27 at 6:15 p.m. CT
Game 2: Chicago at Muskegon – Sunday, April 28 at 4:15 p.m. CT
Game 3: Muskegon at Chicago – Friday, May 3 at 7:05 p.m. CT
Game 4: Muskegon at Chicago – Saturday, May 4 7:05 p.m. CT (if necessary)
Game 5: Chicago at Muskegon – Monday, May 6 at 6:15 p.m. CT (if necessary)

The post The Steel Deal: Chicago defeats Cedar Rapids, advances to conference finals appeared first on The Rink.

Nick Abruzzese earned an All-USHL First Team spot after leading the league in scoring with 80 points (29 goals, 51 assists) in only 62 games. The Harvard University commit’s 80 points was the second-highest point total in franchise history. Abruzzese broke the franchise record for assists in a season with his 51 and became just the third Steel player to reach 100 points during his career with the franchise.

Team captain Matteo Pietroniro broke the franchise’s single-season goal mark for a defenseman with his 18 goals this season in earning All-USHL Second Team honors. The Boise, Idaho, native finished tied for seventh among USHL defenseman in goals. Pietroniro now holds the Steel record for defenseman in a career with 27 goals. With 70 assists total with the Steel, he also ranks second all-time in franchise history.

Forward Robert Mastrosimone scored 31 goals this season to bring his career total to a franchise record 47 goals, earning him All-USHL Third Team honors. Mastrosimone also recorded his 100th career point this season to join Abruzzese. The Boston University commit also finished his career with 58 assists placing him seventh all-time in Chicago franchise history.

Rookie defenseman Owen Power was named to the USHL All-Rookie Second Team after a record season for the youngster. The 16-year-old scored 11 goals this season, although starting the season at only 15 years of age, and registered 25 points for the season. Power was fourth in the league this season among all defensemen with his 11 goals.

General Manager Ryan Hardy was named the 2018–19 USHL General Manager of the Year in his rookie season in the role after spending the previous two season scouting for the Boston Bruins.

“Our goals in Chicago are, first and foremost, to facilitate the development of talented hockey players and, secondly, to compete for the Clark Cup,” Hardy said. “Garnering personal accolades is not relevant in our program. While I am appreciative of the recognition from my peers, this honor does not reflect the work of one individual, but rather the talent, hard work and passion of the coaching staff, hockey operations department and, most importantly, every one of the players who have donned the Chicago Steel crest this season.”

Hardy joins an excellent group of rookie general managers to have won the award. Tampa Bay Lightning head coach Jon Cooper won the award in 2008–09 with the Green Bay Gamblers. Dallas Stars head coach Jim Montgomery also won the award with the Dubuque Fighting Saint in 2010–11.

Hardy is quick to deflect the attention to rookie head coach Greg Moore, associate head coach Brock Sheahan, Director of Player Personnel Tristan Musser, Director of Hockey Operations Chris Hoeler, assistant coach Mike Garman, strength and conditioning coach Virgil Strzelecki, Athletic Trainer Jim Schroader and Equipment Manager Parker Hoffman.

“If there is one aspect of this season that I take the most personal pride in, it would be the identification and procurement of our coaching staff, who are more responsible for this honor than I am,” Hardy said.

The post Abruzzese, Pietroniro, Mastrosimone, Power and Hardy earn USHL end-of-season awards appeared first on The Rink.

Center Nick Abruzzese registered five points in a 6–3 victory over the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders in game one of the Eastern Conference semifinal matchup. Abruzzese scored twice and assisted on three Steel goals to help secure the game one game victory.

Chicago opened the scoring when defenseman Matteo Pietroniro fired a shot from the point which found its way through a screen, beating Cedar Rapids goaltender Blake Pietila. Pietroniro’s goals was assisted by defenseman Jimmy Dowd and Abruzzese.

Cedar Rapids tied the game when forward Jerry Harding beat Steel goaltender Justin Robbins tying the game at 1–1 midway through the opening period.

Harding would not be done for the evening, scoring his third goal of the playoffs and second of the game, beating Robbins shorthanded to give the RoughRiders their only lead of the evening at 2 – 1.

With the early second period goal which gave Cedar Rapids the lead, Chicago scored three straight goals to take a 4–2 lead mid-way through the period.

Defenseman John Spetz opened the barrage with a nice goal assisted by Abruzzese and Neil Shea firing a shot past Pietila.

Forward Christian Sarlo scored only 37 seconds before Abruzzese to extend the Chicago lead to two goals. Sarlo buried a nice feed from forward Travis Treloar, while Abruzzese scored on a Pietila rebound off a shot from forward Robert Mastrosimone.

Never leave the Bullshark in open water
Mastrosimone finds Abruzzese lurking @ChicagoSteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/IGCLl1QYFj

— USHL (@USHL) April 21, 2019

Cedar Rapids scored with 36 seconds remaining in the second period to cut the Steel lead to 4–3 when forward Max Sasson scored his second goal of the playoffs.

The third period would be all Chicago’s when Shea and Abruzzese scored to extend the Steel lead to 6–3 and earning Robbins the victory in net, stopping 23 RoughRiders shots. Abruzzese and Mastrosimone both finished the game +5 after dominating most shifts while on the ice.

THIS LINE
THIS GOAL @chicagoSteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/e5MPPP0qxN

— USHL (@USHL) April 21, 2019

Pietroniro goes up the middle Abruzzese fakes & goes hole
for his 5⃣th point tonight @chicagosteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/B6ybknoZnn

— USHL (@USHL) April 21, 2019

Cedar Rapids 4, Chicago 3 (OT)

Chicago looked to retain home-ice advantage with another victory against the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders but came up short in overtime 4–3. RoughRider forward Aidan McDonough was the backbreaker scoring both the game-tying and game-winning goals, giving the Northeastern University commit three goals in this season’s playoffs.

Defenseman Will Zmolek scored the night’s first goal for the RoughRiders beating Robbins for a power play goal after Chicago defenseman Owen Power was sent off for hooking.

The Steel bounced right back tying the game at 1–1 when Mastrosimone beat Pietila with his first goal of the playoffs. The goal, assisted by Abruzzese, was countered only a few seconds later when forward Liam Walsh scored for the RoughRiders.

With just over a minute until the first intermission, Shea scored his second of the playoffs to tie the game at 2–2 with a pretty goal assisted by Mastrosimone and Dowd.

Everyday I'm HUSTLIN'
Mastrosimone turns on the jets & sets up Shea for a huge goal @ChicagoSteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/JdscaGtdOs

— USHL (@USHL) April 21, 2019

Finnish defenseman Uula Ruikka put the Steel on top for the first time in the game, beating Pietila with a shot through traffic that appeared to deflect off a RoughRider in front.

The lead would not be for long as McDonough tied the game only eleven seconds later. Both teams shared chances in the third period, when Chicago outshot the opponents 10–4, but both teams would not find the back of the net.

At the 9:22 mark of overtime, McDonough registered his second goal of the evening, on the power play, deflecting a puck past Robbins for the game-winning goal.

OVERTIME GAME WINNER!
The series is tied heading back to @RidertownUSA #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/URujp4NaNg

— USHL (@USHL) April 22, 2019

With the series tied 1 – 1, Chicago travels to Cedar Rapids for a pair of games on Tuesday and Wednesday, both starting at 7:05 p.m. CT at Cedar Rapids Ice Arena.

The post The Steel Deal: Abruzzese registers five points in win, teams head to Cedar Rapids tied 1–1 appeared first on The Rink.

GAME 1 – CEDAR RAPIDS AT CHICAGO          Saturday, April 20, at 7:05 p.m.
GAME 2 – CEDAR RAPIDS AT CHICAGO          Sunday, April 21, at 5:05 p.m.
GAME 3 – CHICAGO AT CEDAR RAPIDS          Tuesday, April 23, at 7:05 p.m.
GAME 4 – CHICAGO AT CEDAR RAPIDS          Wednesday, April 24, at 7:05 p.m. (if necessary)
GAME 5 – CEDAR RAPIDS AT CHICAGO          Saturday, April 27, at 7:05 p.m. (if necessary)

The Chicago Steel face off against the Cedar Rapid RoughRiders in the best-of-five series in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Chicago earned a first-round bye with a second-place finish in the conference. Cedar Rapids swept Team USA this past week in a best-of-three series to advance to the semifinals.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

CHICAGO:
Nick Abruzzese: The crafty forward finished first in the USHL this season in scoring (29 goals, 51 assists, 80 points) and mans the top-line center position. Aburzzese also tied for the team lead in shorthanded goals (two) and led the team with 21 power play goals. Abruzzese plays an important role on offense, defense and special teams. The Harvard University commit also maintained a 25.7 shooting percentage on the season.

Robert Mastrosimone: The East Islap, New York, native led the Steel in goals (31) and finished second on the team in points (80). Mastrosimone was second on the team in power play goals with seven and lead the team in shots (161). Mastrosimone also tied Abruzzese in shorthanded goals with two. The Boston University commit will need to continue his excellent offensive production against a stingy RoughRider defense and goaltending.

Matteo Pietroniro: The team captain logs a ton of ice time for the Steel and had an excellent season finishing with 18 goals, 31 assists and 49 points. Pietroniro lead the team with 102 penalty minutes and was second in power play assists (14). Those that have watched the Steel this season can make an argument that Matteo is the heartbeat of the team on the backend. Pietroniro can really shut down the Cedar Rapid attack, which is average at best.

Josiah Slavin: The Chicago Blackhawks’ seventh round draft pick in 2018 was an excellent mid-season pickup by General Manager Ryan Hardy. Slavin has been a great addition to the Steel power play as a net front presence. Slavin finished the season with 24 goals and 27 assist with Chicago and Lincoln. His scoring touch brings a great second wave behind Abruzzese and Mastrosimone.

CEDAR RAPIDS:
Jason Polin: Polin scored five goals in two games in the first round against Team USA. During the regular season, the Western Michigan University commit scored 30 goals and 20 assists, good enough for second overall on the Cedar Rapids roster.

Nathan Smith: Smith lead the team with 53 points (18 goals, 35 assists) for a team-best .90 points per game. The center also led the team with 12 power play goals while tying with Polin for the team lead with five game-winning goals.

Liam Walsh: The Merrimack College commit finished third on the team with 21 goals to go along with his 21 assists. The 6-foot-1, 195-pound winger tied for the team lead (Polin) with two shorthanded goals and brings an excellent piece to Polin and Smith on the wing.

Will Zmolek: Zmolek led all RoughRider defenseman in points with 26 (four goals, 22 assists). The 6-foot-3, 191-pound Bemidji State commit also lead the team in penalty minutes with 107. Zmolek can be argued to be Pietroniro lite. Zmolek will log plenty of ice time for Cedar Rapids.

Blake Pietila: The Cedar Rapids goaltender had an excellent season and was arguably the team’s best player this season. The Michigan Tech commit finished 30–13–3–1 with a 2.30 goals against average and excellent 0.912 save percentage. Look for Pietila to try and keep his team in the series with his top-notch skills in the crease.

NOTES:

• Chicago holds a 19–10–2–0 record at home this season at Fox Valley Arena. Cedar Rapids has recorded a 35–6–2–1 record at home. Chicago will want to make sure not to lose home ice advantage in the first two games. The RoughRiders are tough at home.
• Something has got to give. Chicago finished the season with a league best 3.92 goals per game, second best in the USHL. The RoughRiders are also second in the league with a 2.60 goals against average. The series is a clear example of offense versus defense.
• Special teams: The Steel finished second in the USHL with a 24.6 percentage success rate with the man advantage. Cedar Rapids power play scores at a 17.7 percentage rate. Chicago’s penalty kill is 12^th in the league at 78.6 while the RoughRiders are eighth in the league shorthanded at 80.7 percent.

The post Series preview: Chicago Steel vs. Cedar Rapids RoughRiders appeared first on The Rink.

Ville Ruikka, Uula’s father, coaches soccer in their hometown in Finland but knew that soccer was not for Uula early on.

“I played soccer and coached in a major junior league here in our hometown,” Ville said. “Uula played soccer for many years but told me that hockey was his passion and someday he was going to chase his dreams.”

Ruikka was drafted by the Lincoln Stars of the USHL in Phase II of the draft, but elected to stay at home and play for the Karpat U18 team in Finland. While with Karpat U18, the left-handed shooter registered 28 points (seven goals, 21 assists) in 37 games. He also spent six games with the Karpat U20 team where he registered one assist.

In the 2018 USHL Phase II Draft, Chicago selected Ruikka and brought him overseas for his rookie season. The Miami University commit wasted no time scoring his first USHL goal, as he found the back of the next at Madison on October 12, 2018. Ruikka’s first multi-point game would come only eight days later when he registered a goal and an assist against the Green Bay Gamblers.

“Uula is a wonderful kid who has done a good job transitioning from Finland and adapting to a new culture,” said Chicago Steel General Manager Ryan Hardy. “On the ice, he is a team-first guy with a lot of skill to go along with his great skating ability.”

Being 14 hours from home was not only an adjustment for Uula but also his family.

However, Ville has felt good at home knowing he has had a great billet family.

“The billet family concept is really great and we are much more relaxed knowing a great family is taking care of our son,” Ville said. “We visited Chicago one week in October and met Brian and Marcy Gravenhorst. They are a real nice family.”

Having electronics definitely has helped the 18-year-old adjust being away from home. Uula uses his laptop and smartphone for so much communications that sometimes it seems like he is home in Finland. Ville said the family communicates with Uula regularly using FaceTime and WhatsApp.

Ruikka now has a few days off with his teammates to prepare for their second-round playoff opponent this Saturday. Hardy also looks forward to having the defenseman next year.

“He has been an asset for us this year and should take an even bigger step next season,” Hardy said.

The post Ruikka enjoys rookie season away from home, adds team-first attitude on defense appeared first on The Rink.

The Chicago Steel scored three goals in a span of 1:40 of the third period and held off a late push by the Central Illinois Flying Aces for a 6–5 victory. With the win, Chicago maintained sole possession of second place in the Eastern Conference, which holds a first-round bye in the Clark Cup Playoffs.

Chicago scored first when forward Christian Sarlo beat Central Illinois goaltender Mitchell Gibson at the 2:11 mark of the first period. The goal, assisted by forwards Travis Treloar and Jake Schmaltz, was Sarlo’s 12th goal on the season.

Defenseman Connor Meyer put the Flying Aces on the board two minutes later to tie the game at 1–1. The goal beat Steel goaltender Justin Robbins five-hole on a breakaway.

At the 14:49 mark in the first period, forward Josiah Slavin buried his 23rd goal of the season on the power play. Defenseman Matteo Pietroniro and forward Neal Shea assisted on the goal.

After Central Illinois tied the game late in the first period, the Flying Aces scored first to start the second period and take the lead at 3–2 at the 7:45 mark of the period.

Chicago answered back when Shea fired his 15th goal of the year, again on the power play, with an assist from defenseman John Spetz and Owen Power.

With the score tied 3–3 after two period of play, Chicago jumped on the Flying Aces with a three-goal barrage. Forwards Robert Mastrosimone, Mathieu De St. Phalle and Slavin scored in a span of 1:40 to extend the Chicago lead to 6–3.

The Flying Aces scored twice in the second half of the third period, however, Chicago held on for the 6–5 victory, giving Robbins his 25th win of the season.

Chicago 8, Muskegon 1

With another must win situation on Saturday night, the Chicago Steel scored first and often to stun the Muskegon Lumberjacks 8–1. The victory secured the first-round bye the Steel were fighting for with the Youngstown Phantoms and Cedar Rapid RoughRiders.

Defenseman Luke Reid started the scoring with his second goal of the season at the 3:51 mark of the first period. Muskegon answered back three minutes later with their only goal of the night.

Chicago answered back at the 12:54 mark when Cole Quisenberry found he back of the net for his 11th goal of the season.

Samoskevich with a perfect feed to Quisenberry alone in front! @ChicagoSteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/UjCVxdXBUd

— USHL (@USHL) April 13, 2019

After one period of play, Chicago led 2–1 but would explode for three goals in the second frame when forward Adam Robbins, Power and forward Nick Abruzzese extended the Steel lead to 5–1.

Abruzzese’s goal, on a penalty shot, was his first of the game as he would score again early in the third period.

Shark attack!
The Bullshark, that is.
Abruzzese goes hole on the penalty shot and scores!@ChicagoSteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/lwIfiusOzT

— USHL (@USHL) April 14, 2019

Mathieu De St. Phalle and Quisenberry both scored within the next four minutes to extend the Steel lead to 8–1 and the victory on the evening. Steel goaltender Reilly Herbst stopped 21 shots earning 12th victory of the year.

While earning the first-round bye in the Clark Cup Playoffs, Chicago will play the top remaining seed amongst the first-round winners (Youngstown, Cedar Rapids or Team USA) while Muskegon earned the first seed in the Eastern Conference and will play the lower remaining seed.

The first two playoff home games with take place on Saturday, April 20 at 7:05 p.m. The second game of the series will be played on Sunday, April 21 at 5:05 p.m.

The post The Steel Deal: Chicago clinches first-round bye with weekend sweep appeared first on The Rink.

The-Rink.com co-hosts “Gatekeeper” and “JJ” are joined by staff writers Mario Tirabassi, Eric Andrews, Ray Napientek to talk about the end of the Blackhawks season.

• The Blackhawks moved up from 12th to third in the NHL Draft Lottery!
• What should/could the Blackhawks do in the draft?
• Is it possible they trade up or down?
• How does the change in draft order change summer free agency?
• Airing of grievances.
• We answer some listener and reader questions

Please subscribe, rate this episode, and even write us a review. Reviews will be read on the air.

Also, Please help spread the word to more #RinkRats and visit our sponsor www.PUCKHCKY.com. Use the discount code “THERINK” for 10% off all orders.

The Rinkcast is brought to you by the Overtime Podcast Network

The post Blackhawks Rinkcast – Episode 51 – Season Wrap / Draft Lottery appeared first on The Rink.

“Greg Moore has done a remarkable job transforming a new staff and young team in a very short period of time,” said General Manager Ryan Hardy. “His knowledge of the game, creating mind, attention to detail and work ethic are as good as I’ve seen at every level.”

The 35-year-old Lisbon, Maine, native was brought to Chicago after two decades of experience with the USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program.

As a player, Moore won championships at several different levels. As a coach, he returned in helping Team USA in the USHL and helped guide USA to the gold medal at the 2017 IIHF U18 World Championships in Slovakia.

“The players in our program have benefited immensely from his knowledge and his demeanor,” Hardy said. “Greg will coach in the NHL some day; it’s just a matter of how fast he wants to get there.”

Moore played his collegiate career at the University of Maine, culminating in a 28-goal senior campaign. His play helped Maine to two NCAA Frozen Fours, including a National Championship in 2004. The Calgary Flames selected Moore in the fifth round of the 2003 NHL Draft.

After three seasons with the Hartford Wolf Pack in the AHL, Moore was traded to the New York Rangers, along with Jamie McLennan and Blair Betts, in exchange for Chris Simon and a seventh round pick in the 2004 draft.

The Rangers called up Moore in the 2007–08 season, playing six games at the NHL level at right wing. Moore would spend two more seasons in the AHL, after signing with the New York Islanders and a trade to Columbus, before cracking the NHL lineup again with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Moore also spent time in the Philadelphia Flyers, Augsburger Panther and the Grizzly Adams Wolfsburg on the Deutsche Eishockey Liga, a German professional ice hockey league.

Behind the bench this weekend, Moore’s Steel take on the Central Illinois Flying Aces on Friday at home before concluding the regular season at the Muskegon Lumberjacks. Both contests will play a major role in the playoff picture, as Chicago wants the first-round bye in the Clark Cup Playoffs, earned for finishing either first or second in the conference.

The post Moore guides Chicago to playoffs in first season behind the bench appeared first on The Rink.

The Slate Hill, New York, native currently leads the USHL in scoring (76 points), assists (49) and is tied for ninth in goals (27). Abruzzese is also scoring at a 26.2 percent clip on all his shots, a number that is quite impressive at any level of hockey. The first-line center has also been tasked with shutting down the opponent’s top-line players.

At 5’9” and 160 lbs., pro scouts need to watch Abruzzese closely in order to truly enjoy his full body of work this season. The NHL Central Scouting midterm rankings ranked Abruzzese the 200^th best prospect amongst North American skaters, a ranking that may seem low when it is all said and done for Abruzzese.

“Too often in the scouting community we put too much emphasis on evaluating with the tape measure and birth certificate,” Chicago Steel General Manager Ryan Hardy stated. “By any metric, Nick Abruzzese is an elite player with the hockey sense and playmaking capabilities that translate to the upper echelon of the players in the NHL.”

Abruzzese’s accomplishments on the ice have not gone unnoticed by the USHL. The left-handed shooting center has twice been the recipient of USHL Forward of the Week, once last season and once this season. An impressive feat, knowing the amount of high-end talent throughout the top junior league in the country.

The accomplishments do not stop on the ice, as Abruzzese is committed to play NCAA Division I hockey at the University of Harvard, an Ivy League school that participates in the ECAC for hockey, who recently lost to Massachusetts in the NCAA Northeast Regional play. Harvard, coached by Ted Donato, has qualified for the NCAA Tournament three of the last four seasons, culminating in a third-place finish in the 2016–17 season, when the Crimson finished with a 28–6–2 record.

“His mindset and approach to his development are also exceptional,” Hardy said. “The team with the courage to draft him will get potentially the steal of the draft.”

As the Chicago Steel look to make a deep run in the Clark Cup playoffs, the former New Jersey Avalanche product, the same organization that helped develop Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Brett Pesce, will look to lead the way with his scoring, playmaking ability and leadership that has helped the Steel fight to hold onto the second place spot in the Eastern Conference, which would earn the team a first round bye in the playoffs.

The post USHL scoring leader Abruzzese braces for Clark Cup Playoffs, NHL Draft appeared first on The Rink.

Chicago Blackhawks Starting Lineup

Brandon Saad–Jonathan Toews–Dylan Sikura
Alex DeBrincat–Dylan Strome–Dominik Kahun
Brendan Perlini–Artem Anisimov–Patrick Kane
Chris Kunitz–David Kampf–Dominik Kahun
Duncan Keith–Erik Gustafsson
Gustav Forsling–Brent Seabrook
Slater Koekkoek–Connor Murphy

FIRST PERIOD

Chicago opened the period with an early power play, as San Jose forward Marcus Sorensen was penalized for goaltender interference at the 2:33 mark of the period. Sorensen went hard to the net, making contact with Crawford’s head. As usual with this Blackhawks team, not much happened after an opponent took liberties with their goaltender. Crawford appeared none too happy, remembering San Jose forward Evander Kane ran him earlier this season.

Less than a minute later, San Jose defenseman Brent Burns was sent off for high sticking Alex DeBrincat. With the two-man advantage, DeBrincat scored his 39^th goal of the season. The goal, reviewed by Sharks’ head coach Peter DeBoer, stood after it was determined Jonathan Toews did not interfere with San Jose goaltender Martin Jones.

After review, the officials confirm the call on the ice stands = GOOD GOAL!#Blackhawks ~officially~ up 1-0 in San Jose. #CHIvsSJS pic.twitter.com/SfegCBefFJ

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) March 29, 2019

Connor Murphy extended the Chicago lead to 2–0, beating Jones with what appeared to deflect off a San Jose defender in front. The goal, Murphy’s fifth this season, was assisted by Brandon Saad and Artem Anisimov.

This goal is *chef's kiss*#Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/bOhfvwGL55

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) March 29, 2019

The Blackhawks extended their lead when Toews scored from the left side of the net, at the 10:59 mark. The goal, tying Toews’ career high in points (76), was assisted by Saad and Erik Gustafsson.

Heeeeeeere's Jonny!#Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/KOPwYKl9nD

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) March 29, 2019

Exactly one minute later, San Jose cut the lead to 3–1 when forward Lukas Radil barely beat Crawford over his left shoulder after deflecting a shot off his glove. Tomas Hertl and Burns assisted on the goal.

Whatever works, right? ¯_(ツ)_/¯ #StealthMode pic.twitter.com/RRGZGJTe2e

— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) March 29, 2019

Brent Seabrook took back-to-back penalties late in the period, giving the Sharks a clear jump in their step. The good news, the Blackhawks were able to kill off both penalties, ending with Saad missing a late chance, as the period came to an end.

Chicago outshot the home team 14–9 in the period.

SECOND PERIOD

Just over two minutes into the period, Gustav Nyquist cut the Chicago lead to 3–2. Nyquist was the recipient of a pretty doorstep pass from Hertl for this 20th goal of the season.

#SJSharks Tim Heed -> Kevin Labanc – > Tomas Hertl – Gustav Nyquist. Sharks down by 1.

Or what we call duck duck duck GOOSE! pic.twitter.com/02Aq0wGtHr

— TEAL TOWN USA – A San Jose Sharks Podcast (@TEALTOWNUSA) March 29, 2019

Chicago wasted no time extending their lead back to two goals when DeBrincat buried his 40th goal of the season, and second of the game. DeBrincat becomes the second Blackhawks’ player to reach 40 goals this season, joining Patrick Kane.

Pass that thing and watch me flex
Behind my back, you know what's next#Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/Z7drmJBOYK

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) March 29, 2019

Even with a two goal lead, Chicago looked like the team in scramble mode, especially when Seabrook took his third penalty of the game. While shorthanded, Murphy was called for closing his hand on the puck, giving the Sharks another two-man advantage.

San Jose was able to take advantage of this two-man advantage, scoring off the stick of Hertl as he  deflected a nice pass in front from Sharks center Joe Thornton, making the score 4–3.

Ninja Hertl in full stealth mode with his 34th goal of the season pic.twitter.com/TFrwNosxfa

— Sharks on NBCS (@NBCSSharks) March 29, 2019

At the 16:06 mark, Slater Koekkoek found himself out of position, giving San Jose forward Timo Meier a quick breakaway and beat Crawford for his 29th goal this season. As we have seen many times before, the defense left Crawford out to dry. The goal tied the game at 4–4.

9:05PM #TimoTime #StealthMode pic.twitter.com/C28DpcSfLt

— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) March 29, 2019

For as bad as the Blackhawks looked after taking a two-goal lead early, they did not quit when the Sharks tied the game. Chris Kunitz put the opponents back on top when he tipped home a Kane shot past Jones. The goal, assisted by Kane and Gustafsson, gave the veteran four goals this season.

Chicago was outshot by San Jose 12–5 for the period, giving the Sharks a 21–19 advantage after two periods.

THIRD PERIOD

The wide open game did not end after two periods. As the game went to the first commercial break after seven minutes of action, Chicago was outshooting San Jose 4–3. Both teams exchanged some really good chances but could not find the back of the net.

Both Crawford and Jones shared top-notch saves throughout up to the last commercial break. With 2:44 left to play in the third period, the wild game was still scoreless for the period.

With just under 1:30 to play, San Jose pulled Jones for the extra attacker. After what appeared to be an icing call against the Sharks was waived off, San Jose put an extended pressure on the Blackhawks but could not tie the game, giving Chicago the 5–4 victory.

THE GOOD

Alex DeBrincat scored his 40^th goal of the season, making him the youngest Blackhawks player to 40 goals. The second-round pick is looking like a steal and will get paid well soon.

The game was entertaining. If you stayed up past midnight, you were not disappointed.

THE BAD

Brent Seabrook took three penalties in the game. Although the chances of the Blackhawks making the playoffs is something for “meatballs” to think about, your veteran player cannot be a “meatball” himself in the game.

Teams know the Blackhawks are soft and easy to play against. You can run their goalie, win most board battles in deep and can plant in front of their goalie without any repercussions.

The post Chicago beats San Jose 5–4, DeBrincat reaches 40 goals appeared first on The Rink.

The Steel controlled much of the first period, while any chance the RoughRiders could muscle up, were turned aside by Robbins. Chicago outshot Cedar Rapids 8–2 in the period.

If the first period was controlled by the Steel, the same could not be said of the second period. Cedar Rapids outshot Chicago 12–5, using the excellent play by Robbins to keep the game tied. Chicago fought off the only power play of the night with an excellent penalty kill at the end of the period.

Both teams traded excellent chances in the third period, only to come up empty on each shot. Robbins and Pietila kept the puck out of the net, even with some tough, madhouse scrambles in front of the net. Chicago outshot Cedar Rapids 9–5 for the period, ending regulation with a 22–19 advantage.

In overtime, RoughRider forward Aidan McDonough ended the game at the 2:52 mark. McDonough took a nice feed from forward Jason Polin, made a nice toe drag past a defender, and buried a shot blocker side of Robbins.

Chicago returns to Fox Valley Arena, both Friday and Saturday, for games against the Madison Capitols and the Waterloo Black Hawks, both starting at 7:05 p.m. Friday night is “Pucks and Pups” night presented by Woofbeach. Fans are encouraged to bring their dog to the game. On Saturday, the first 500 fans will receive a “College” t-shirt, celebrating the Animal House Anniversary, sponsored by Waubonsee Community College.

The Rinkcast Podcast – Epidode 49 – featured a large portion of content of the Chicago Steel. Listen to your favorite Chicago playoff team HERE.

The post The Steel Deal: Chicago earns point, blanked by Cedar Rapids in overtime appeared first on The Rink.

On Friday, Reid scored his first career USHL goal against the Green Bay Gamblers. The University of North Dakota commit has registered 18 points (1 goal, 17 assists) in 53 games played this season. Reid also registered a +8 rating for the week, improving his yearly total to +13.

With the announcement, Reid joined the Captain Matteo Pietroniro as the second Steel defenseman awarded this season.

“Luke is one of the most competitive players I have been around,” said Head Coach Greg Moore. “This honor has been long coming for a player who has been a big contributor offensively and defensively for our team.”

Reid and his teammates are back in action this weekend for back-to-back home games, both starting at 7:05 p.m. Friday night is “Pucks and Pups” as the Madison Capitols visit before the Waterloo Black Hawks come to town, on Saturday, in which the first 500 fans receive a “College” t-shirt.

The post Reid awarded USHL Defenseman of the Week appeared first on The Rink.

The Chicago Steel defeated the Green Bay Gamblers 8–3, on Friday, after falling behind 3–1 in the second period. The seven unanswered goals the Steel scored came from seven different players. The victory also gave Steel goaltender Justin Robbins his 23^rd win, breaking the previous record.

Forward Sam Colangelo scored his first career USHL goal, at the 11:10 mark in the first period, burying a shot past Gamblers goaltender Maxsim Zhukov.

Not sure exactly what happened here, but it ended real nice
Sam Colangelo gets his 1⃣st @ChicagoSteel goal! #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/02alVIwIyE

— USHL (@USHL) March 23, 2019

Green Bay answered back with three straight goals of their own, the last coming on the power play, at the 2:59 mark of the second period. Forwards Luke Mylymok, Tyler Spott and Austin Heidemann tallied for the Gamblers.

That would be it for the Gamblers, as Robbins shut the door the rest of the way. The Steel scored three goals in a span of 3:02 to take a 4–3 lead, before adding two more goals in the period, to take a 6–3 lead into the second intermission.

Chicago’s three goal outburst started when Jake Schmaltz scored his fourth goal of the season. The power play goal was assisted by Owen Power and Mathieu De St. Phalle.

Not to be outdone, forward Josiah Slavin scored his 20^th goal of the season.

Josiah Slavin hot on the backhand
Great set up from Mastrosimone and Robbins @ChicagoSteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/I50Xomrey2

— USHL (@USHL) March 23, 2019

Forward Cole Quisenberry and Christian Sarlo added two more goals, their tenth and eleventh goals this season, to close out the second period.

Jake Schmaltz found the back of the net for his second goal of the game, extending the Steel lead to 7–3, before defenseman Luke Reid finished off the scoring with his first goal this season.

Justin Robbins turned aside 20 shots for the victory.

Justin Robbins picked up his 23rd win of the season tonight, setting a new franchise record for single-season wins! #WeAreSteel pic.twitter.com/X4W7GCoNrT

— Chicago Steel (@ChicagoSteel) March 23, 2019

Chicago 6, Lincoln 1

Steel Goaltender Justin Robbins added another victory to his all-time victory total, stopping 16 of the 17 shots he faced, helping his team defeat the Lincoln Stars 6–1. Chicago received goals from six different players, holding onto the third spot on the Eastern Conference playoff race.

Forward Josiah Slavin scored his 21^st goal this season beating Stars’ goaltender Samuel Hlavaj. The goal is the Chicago Blackhawks’ prospects fourth goal in three games.

Josiah Slavin (@chicagosteel) gets on the board against his former team! #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/vI56Y6MyPH

— USHL (@USHL) March 24, 2019

Chicago took a 2–0 lead with under two minutes to play in the first period, when forward Robert Mastrosimone scored his 28^th goal this season. The goal, assisted by Nick Abruzzese and Mathieu De St. Phalle, gave the Boston University commit his 100^th career point with the Chicago Steel.

Congratulations to #WeAreSteel forward Robert Mastrosimone (@rmastro9424) who became just the fifth player in franchise history to reach career regular season points with his goal today! pic.twitter.com/Vc2YlDXDdC

— Chicago Steel (@ChicagoSteel) March 24, 2019

Forward Sam Colangelo scored his second goal in as many games, giving the Steel a 3–0 lead, at the 16:14 mark of the second period. The goal was assisted by forward Christian Sarlo.

Defenseman Owen Power scored his ninth goal of the season, when burying a shot past Hlavaj, assisted by forward Jake Schamltz and defenseman Uula Ruikka.The goal gave Chicago a 4–0 lead heading into the second intermission.

Keep your out for Owen Power (@ChicagoSteel) #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/FwfkVUjn5R

— USHL (@USHL) March 24, 2019

The Steel would not be finished pouring it on the Stars. Less than two minutes in to the period, forward Nick Abruzzese extended the Steel’s lead to 5–0, before De St. Phalle finished off the scoring for the Steel.

Lincoln finally beat Robbins, at the 7:33 mark in the third period, when defenseman Samuli Niinisaari scored his seventh goal this season.

The victory left Chicago (34–19–2–0) a three point lead over the Youngstown Phantoms and Cedar Rapids Rough Riders for second place in the Eastern Conference playoff race.

Chicago is set for back-to-back home games on Friday, March 29 and Saturday, March 30. On Friday, the Madison Capitols come to town for a 7:05 p.m. puck drop. Fans can bring their Dogs to the game for the “Pucks and Pups” celebration. On Saturday, the Waterloo Black Hawks come to Fox Valley Ice Arena for a 7:05 p.m. start. The first 500 fans receive an Animal House “COLLEGE” t-shirt, presented by Waubonsee Community College.

The post The Steel Deal: Robbins, Mastrosimone Break Records, Help Lead Steel To Victories appeared first on The Rink.

The Gamblers opened the scoring on their home ice, at the 4:09 mark of the first period, when forward Nicholas Zabaneh scored his 11^th goal of the season. Forwards Gleb Murtazin and Luke Mylymok assisted on the goal. As it turned out, this was the only puck to slip past Robbins the rest of the evening.

Chicago Blackhawks’ prospect Slavin tied the score at 1–1, netting his 18^th goal of the season. The goal, assisted by forward Adam Robbins and defenseman Luke Reid, was the first of back-to-back goals by Slavin.

At the 17:09 mark of the first period, Slavin scored on the power play, when defenseman Matteo Pietroniro shoveled a pass over to forward Robert Mastrosimone, who fired a shot on Gambler goaltender Ryan Ullan. The rebound from Ullan found Slavin at the side of the net, who buried his shot for the 2–1 lead.

Midway through the second period, De St. Phalle scored his 9th goal of the season. The University of Wisconsin commit finished a 2-on-1 with forward Christian Sarlo, and snuck a backhand past a sprawling Ullan. The goal was De St. Phalle’s sixth point (2 goals, 4 assists) in the past six games.

Classic @ChicagoSteel goal
These guys must practice this or something…#WhosNext pic.twitter.com/ZOsOZRISCs

— USHL (@USHL) March 20, 2019

With the 3–1 lead, Chicago did not take their foot off the pedal, outshooting the Gamblers 13–2 in the third period, and 39 – 20 for the game. Even though Chicago could not find the back of the net in the second half of the game, the Steel’s savvy play and hard work in their defensive end was outstanding.

With the victory, Chicago finds themselves back in sole possession of second place in the Eastern Conference standings. The victory also secured their third straight Clark Cup playoff appearance, which begins April 15.

Chicago returns to Green Bay for another matchup on Friday night for a 7:05 p.m. contest. On Sunday, Chicago skates on home ice for the “Daddy Daughter Princess” celebration for a 3:05 p.m. puck drop against the Lincoln Stars.

The post The Steel Deal: Steel Clinch Playoff Berth, Slavin Scores Twice appeared first on The Rink.

If a player has played in a league that does pay their players, they can still play for an USHL team, but cannot play for a college team. As an example, Matteo Pietroniro played three season in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) which pays their players, albeit it acts more like a small stipend.

The Chicago Steel has an excellent history of players moving onto the college level, which you can view HERE, after their playing days are done in the USHL. With that being said, here is a list of the current Chicago Steel team college commitments:

Nick Abruzzese – Harvard University
Mathieu De St. Phalle – University of Wisconsin
Jimmy Dowd – Penn State University
Joshua Groll – University of Michigan
Robert Mastrosimone – Boston University
Owen Power – University of Michigan
Cole Quisenberry – Brown University
Luke Reid – University of North Dakota
Adam Robbins – Princeton University
Justin Robbins – Quinnipiac University
Uula Ruikka – Miami University
Christian Sarlo – Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Jake Schmaltz – University of North Dakota
Neil Shea – Northeastern Unversity
Jaccob Slavin – Colorado College
Casey Staum – Colorado College
Matthew Sutton – Brown University
Travis Treloar – Western Michigan University

Currently in the NCAA conference tournaments in college hockey, Penn State (Jimmy Dowd) plays in the Big Ten finals against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

Brown (Matthew Sutton, Cole Quisenberry) takes on Cornell in one semifinal game in the ECAC, while Harvard (Nick Abruzzese) matches up against Clarkson in the other semifinal.

In the Hockey East Conference, Boston University (Robert Mastrosimone) faces off against Northeastern (Neil Shea) in a semifinal matchup.

The NCHC semifinals includes Colorado College (Jaccob Slavin, Casey Staum) as they matchup with St. Cloud state this weekend.

As you can see, current roster players on the Chicago Steel will soon play huge roles at their respective colleges. With the excitement of March Madness, keep an eye out for more college teams to make the NCAA tournament, as we are sure to see more future Steel colleges in the National Championship mix.

For more college hockey news and future NCAA tournament games you can click HERE.

Until their college careers start, the Steel are smack in the middle of a playoff race in the Eastern Conference in the USHL, with games at Green Bay, on Tuesday and Friday, before coming home for a matinee game on Sunday against the Lincoln Stars.

The post Looking To The Steel Future: Chicago College Commitments appeared first on The Rink.

Youngstown 4, Chicago 3

On Friday, Chicago jumped on the scoreboard first, as Mastrosimone scored his 25^th goal of the season at the 1:13 mark of the first period. The goal, assisted by defenseman Uula Ruikka and forward Jake Schmaltz, kept the Boston University commit atop the Steel goal scoring lead.

Smooooth moves from Uula Ruikka to set up Mastrosimone @ChicagoSteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/G5UqfQGJoE

— USHL (@USHL) March 16, 2019

Chicago took the 1–0 lead into the first intermission, outshooting Youngstown 8–7 in the hard-fought first period.

The Phantoms jumped to a 2–1 lead with back-to-back goals by Craig Needham and Jack Malone, the second goal coming at the 5:50 mark of the second period, which seemed to put the Steel on their heels for a few shifts.

Mastrosimone scored his second goal of the game, and 26^th of the season, when he finished off the rebound from a shot by defenseman John Spetz. The goal, also assisted by forward Mathieu De St. Phalle, was the only power play goal scored in the game.

He slips… he scores!!!
Mastrosimone on the rebound ties it up for @ChicagoSteel#WhosNext pic.twitter.com/twVyW6Itcq

— USHL (@USHL) March 16, 2019

Forward Nick Abruzzese put the Steel on the board first in the third period, giving Chicago the 3–2 lead. The goal, scored at the 3:42 mark, was assisted by defensemen Owen Power and Luke Reid.

That would be the last goal for the Steel. Youngstown tied the game, at the 10:29 mark of the third period, when Malone scored his second goal of the game, after a nice stretch pass from forward Matthew Barnaby, who beat Steel goaltender Justin Robbins five-hole.

GO LOOONG!
Barnaby Malone@YtownPhantoms #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/E4nb65td1V

— USHL (@USHL) March 16, 2019

Phantoms’ defenseman Aiden Gallacher scored his first goal of the season, at the 15:38 mark, to give Youngstown the lead, and ultimately the victory, 4–3.

Chicago outshot Youngstown 29–22 but could not tie the game with Robbins pulled for the extra attacker.

Chicago 3, Dubuque 2

The great news about USHL hockey, after dropping a hard-fought game on Friday, the Steel could not sit back and think about the loss, as they hosted the Fighting Saints the next evening. Dubuque would jump out to a 1–0 lead, however, Chicago came racing back with three straight goals, and held off a late push by Dubuque, giving Chicago the 3–2 victory and a much needed two points in the standings.

Dubuque took the lead, at the 3:47 mark in the first period, when right winger Riese Gaber scored his 19^th goal of the season, beating Steel goaltender Reilly Herbst.

Riese Gaber is really feelin' it lately @fightingsaints #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/aCJmLnib69

— USHL (@USHL) March 17, 2019

The score would remain 1–0 until Mastrosimone tied the game on an unassisted goal midway through the second period. Mastrosimone stole the puck along the left boards and buried a wrist shot blocker side.

Mastrosimone is a straight up hustler
The with the steal and score@ChicagoSteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/0DG7NNM0hF

— USHL (@USHL) March 17, 2019

Chicago would score a late goal in the second period, when Matteo Pietroniro buried his 17^th goal of the season. The captain’s goal was assisted by forward Adam Robbins.

After two period of play, Chicago lead 2–1 while outshooting Dubuque 12–11. The offensive push would not be much better in the third period, as Dubuque fired a total of six shots on net, besting the Steel by one shot.

One of Chicago’s five shots did find the back of the net when forward Josh Groll beat Dubuque goaltender Matthew Thiessen, a Vancouver Canuck draft pick, to extend the Chicago lead to 3–1.

Dubuque forward Matias Maccelli scored for the Fighting Saints to bring the visitors to within a goal midway through the third period, but could not beat the Steel defense for the game-tying goal.

Chicago walked away with the 3–2 victory, in a game with 34 shots total, and one penalty called in the game. Herbst stopped 15 shots for the victory.

With the victory, Chicago kept control of the second spot in the Eastern Conference, a race that has seen the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders and Youngstown Phantoms creep into.

https://twitter.com/USHLKevin/status/1107119721554608129

Chicago will be back in action this week for three games. Chicago plays in Green Bay on Tuesday, March 19 and Friday, March 22. Both games start at 7:05 p.m. The Steel then return home, on Sunday March 24, for “Daddy Daughter Princess Day” for a 3:05 p.m. puck drop, at Fox Valley Ice Arena. Fans can also enjoy a post-game “Skate with the Steel.”

The post The Steel Deal: After Loss on Friday, Chicago Tops Dubuque on Saturday appeared first on The Rink.

Sioux Falls 7, Chicago 4

The Chicago Steel jumped out to a 2–0 lead against the Sioux Falls Stampede, but a five goal second period by Sioux Falls did the Steel in, losing 7–4. Steel forward Nick Abruzzese picked up his 100^th career USHL regular season point, while Ville Rasanen scored his first career USHL goal.

Chicago defenseman John Spetz put the Steel on the board, just over five minutes into the game, on the power play for his 8^th goal of the season. The goal, assisted by forward Mathieu De St. Phalle and defenseman Owen Power, was the first of three power play goals for the Steel in the game.

Two minutes later, defenseman Ville Rasanen added to the Steel lead, firing a wrist shot past Stampede goaltender Jaxson Stauber. The Finnish product’s goal, assisted by forward Christian Sarlo, proceeded a six-goal onslaught by the Stampede.

Stampede forwards Ethan Phillips and Anthony Romano scored on the power play to end the first period and start the second. A few minutes later, forwards Sam Stevens and Austen Swankler extended the Stampede lead to 4–2. Before the second period finished, left wing Jared Wescott scored back-to-back goals, giving Sioux Falls the 6–2 lead heading in to the second intermission.

Steel Head Coach Greg Moore switched goaltenders after the fifth Stampede goal, replacing Justin Robbins with Reilly Herbst.

The Steel showed their resiliency when scoring two quick goals to start the third period. Forward Robert Mastrosimone fired his 24^th goal of the season three minutes into the period. The goal, assisted by forward Gunnarwolfe Fontaine and Josiah Slavin, shortened the Stampede lead to 6–3.

Captain Matteo Pietroniro scored his 16^th goal of the season three minutes later. The power play goal, assisted by Fontaine and Abruzzese, gave the Steel back-to-back power play goals and pulled within two goals at 6–4.

.@ChicagoSteel keepin' things interesting!
Back within #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/Se758r525y

— USHL (@USHL) March 9, 2019

Sioux Falls attempted three shots in the third period, as Chicago tried to claw their way back into the game, only to be denied with an empty net goal by forward Artem Ivanyuzhenkov, finished off the Steel 7–4.

Chicago outshot Sioux Falls 30–19 for the game, but could not take advantage of the edge in shots.

Team USA 5, Chicago 4 (OT)

Chicago bounced back the following evening to earn a point against Team USA, forcing overtime with two third period goals, before falling in overtime 5–4. In overtime, Steel goaltender Reilly Herbst made a great play on a Team USA penalty shot, only to surrender the game winning goal with 20 seconds left in the extra frame.

Former Chicago Mission 16U forward Landon Slaggert scored the first Team USA goal, at the 2:44 mark of the first period. The goal, Slaggert’s fourth of the season, was answered less than a minute later when Steel defenseman Owen Power scored his eight goal this season. The University of Michigan commits goal was assisted by forward Robert Mastrosimone.

With the game tied 1–1, Team USA scored two goals five minutes apart to extend their lead to 3–1. Forwards Tanner Latsch and Chase Yoder found the back of the net, for their third and fifth goals, respectively.

The wild first period would continue, forward Nick Abruzzese netted his 22^nd goal of the season, assisted by forward Mathieu De St. Phalle and defenseman Jimmy Dowd, to cut the Team USA lead to 3–2 at the first intermission.

The only goal of the second period belonged to Team USA. Forward Hunter Strand fired a shot past Herbst to extend their lead to 4–2 after 40 minutes of action.

The Steel began the third period with two goals in the first 91 seconds. De St. Phalle took advantage of mishap by Team USA goaltender Drew Commesso, who turned the puck over to De St. Phalle for a tap in goal.

A few moments later, Abruzzese powered in a warp around goal to tie the game at 4–4. The Harvard commits goal was his 23^rd on the season and force overtime.

The Steel could not take advantage of the one minute power play to start the overtime before Herbst made a nice play on the penalty shot, poking the puck from Team USA forward Thomas Bordeleau before getting off a shot attempt.

Team USA scored the game-winner, on a breakaway, as defenseman Eamon Powell fired a wrist shot past Herbst. Chicago outshot Team USA 35–33 for the game, while showing a lot of character to force overtime and gain a much-needed point on the weekend.

Chicago will be back in action this weekend for a pair of home games against the Youngstown Phantoms and Dubuque Fighting Saints. On Friday, the Steel celebrate “Irish Night” on St. Patrick’s Day weekend at 7:05 p.m. against the Phantoms. On Saturday, the Steel face off with the Fighting Saints, as Chicago will wear their custom gray and black jerseys during the game, that will be auctioned off, with proceeds benefiting the Geneva Academic Foundation. Puck drop for the Saturday is set for 7:05 p.m.

The post The Steel Deal: Abruzzese’s 100th Career Point Not Enough appeared first on The Rink.

In Dubuque, Chicago jumped out to a 2–0 lead when captain Matteo Pietroniro and forward Gunnarwolfe Fontaine scored four minutes apart, late in the first period. Pietroniro’s goal, assisted by forward Nick Abruzzese and Robert Mastrosimone, was his 15th goal of the season. Fontaine’s 18^th goal of the season was assisted by forward Neil Shea.

Matteo Pietroniro goes BAR @ChicagoSteel#WhosNext pic.twitter.com/tHmFFRBJdG

— USHL (@USHL) March 2, 2019

Chicago took a 2–0 lead into the first intermission, however, the Fighting Saints answered back with four unanswered goals and led 4–2 with 15 minutes left to play in the third period.

Mastrosimone finally got the Steel back on the scoreboard, at the 14:52 mark of the third period, to draw the Steel within one goal. The goal, Mastrosimone’s 22^nd of the season, was assisted by Abruzzese and defenseman John Spetz.

Chicago pulled goaltender Justin Robbins late in the game in an attempt to tie the game, but Dubuque finished off the Steel with an empty net goal.

The Steel would waste no time getting revenge on the Fighting Saints on Saturday. However, the game did not start as the Steel drew it up.

Dubuque scored two goals within the first four minutes of the first period to take a 2–0 lead. At the 8:07 mark of the first period, Mastrosimone scored his 23^rd goal of the season, cutting the Dubuque lead to 2–1.

Dubuque answered back to take a 3–1 lead with five minutes left to play in the first period, before Chicago Blackhawks’ prospect Josiah Slavin scored his 16^th goal of the season, cutting the Dubuque lead to 3–2 before the first intermission.

Shea tied the score, at the 2:51 mark of the second period, which would be the only goal of the second period, after the wild first frame. The goal, assisted by Mastrosimone and Pietroniro, gave Shea thirteen goals on the season.

Neil Shea with the hot (back) hands! @ChicagoSteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/1E9tLmFgb8

— USHL (@USHL) March 3, 2019

Slavin scored his second of the game, and 17^th of the season, at the 3:32 mark of the third period, to give the Steel a 4–3 lead.

Try following this puck without getting dizzy, we dare you. @ChicagoSteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/h24AjbZlMo

— USHL (@USHL) March 3, 2019

The Steel would finish off the scoring with an empty net goal by forward Josh Groll, his eight of the season, to give Chicago the 5–3 victory and a split on the weekend.

Chicago plays this weekend, March 8 and 9, against the Sioux Falls Stampede and Team USA U17. Friday’s game with the Stampede, features LEGOLAND night for a 7:05 p.m. puck drop. Saturday’s game with Team USA U17 features Pajama Day for another 7:05 p.m. face off.

Dubuque 5, Chicago 3

Chicago 5, Dubuque 3

The post The Steel Deal: Chicago Splits Back-to-Back With Dubuque appeared first on The Rink.

“Christmas time last year (2017) he (Slavin) was really on nobody’s draft radar,” Hardy stated “and I talked to the Lincoln Stars’ General Manager and planted the seed, that if the situation presented itself, I would be interested in obtaining him.”

That opportunity came on January 22 this season, as the Steel traded for Slavin in a multi-player deal. Since joining the Steel, Slavin has eleven points (4 goals, 7 assists) while adding a big body in front on the power play, a scoring threat and overall 200-foot effort.

“He really added to our culture we have here in Chicago,” said Hardy, “It’s been a perfect fit. As a player, he’s really smart and can really score. His maturity and appetite to be better every single day is outstanding. He’s a really great person”

The Colorado College commitment has played 153 USHL games over the past three seasons, accumulating 90 points (43 goals, 47 asssits) and looks to help guide the Steel this season on a long playoff run.

Around the scouting circles, Slavin has the work ethic and determination to be good at the next level. His glaring need for the NHL would be his skating ability. Hardy has seen first-hand the extra time Slavin has put into his skating skills and would not be shocked to see Slavin in a Chicago Blackhawks’ uniform in the future.

“He’s the type of player that goes from unknown to the NHL, he’s that good,” stated Hardy.

Former Blackhawks’ head coach Joel Quenneville was also impressed with Slavin at the Blackahwks’ 2018 development camp, “The kid that might have impressed me the most was Josiah Slavin. He looks like he could be a player.”

For now, you can see Slavin and his Chicago Steel teammates, as they host the Dubuque Fighting Saints, this Saturday March 2 at Fox Valley Arena in Geneva, IL , for a 7:05 p.m. puck drop. For future games, click HERE for the Chicago Steel schedule.

Slavin scoring on February 1 this season for the Chicago Steel

Josiah Slavin is on with his new team!@ChicagoSteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/y6KnIdIX5a

— USHL (@USHL) February 2, 2019

Slavin at the Chicago Blackhawks Development Camp in July 2018 from the Rinks very own Eric Andrews

Josiah Slavin has a good first step. pic.twitter.com/4lDhRx3UZD

— Eric Andrews (@WALaxer19) July 17, 2018

The post From Unknown to Chicago, Slavin Making A Name For Himself appeared first on The Rink.

The Chicago Steel fell to the Tri-City Storm on Friday night 5–3. The Steel jumped out to a 3–2 lead but could not answer the Storm’s three unanswered goals.

Defenseman Zac Jones put the Storm up 1–0 with his sixth goal of the season. Jones beat Steel goaltender Justin Robbins through a tough screen in front.

Robert Mastrosimone answered back with his 21st goal on the season, his eighth in eleven games, after finishing off a nice play by defenseman John Spetz. Forward Cole Quisenberry also assisted on the play.

Twenty-three seconds later, the Storm retook the lead after forward Joe Berg beat Robbins for his sixth goal of the season. Chicago was outshot in the first period 14–8 as the Storm led 2–1 at the first intermission.

Chicago came storming out of the intermission with two goals in the first 8:11 of the second period. First, forward Nick Abruzzese scored his 21^st goals of the year, tying Mastrosimone for the team lead, on a goal assisted by defenseman Luke Reid and forward Neil Shea. The second goal came of the stick of Spetz, his sixth of the season, assisted by Mathieu De St. Phalle.

That would be all she wrote for the Steel on the scoresheet. The Storm answered back less than a minute after the Steel took the lead and led 4–3 after two periods of play. The final Storm goal was an empty net goal, sealing the Steel’s fate.

Chicago 4, Tri-Storm 3

A short memory is a good quality for a team on the road, playing a back-to-back at the USHL leading Tri-City Storm. Chicago took an early 2 – 0 lead in the second period of play, then let the lead slip away at 3 – 2, before finishing off the Storm in overtime 4 – 3.

Forward Gunnarwolfe Fontaine opened the scoring, at the 6:33 mark of the second period, for his 17^th goal, assisted by Reid. Just over three minutes later, Shea connecting with defenseman Matteo Pietroniro for this twelfth goal on the season. Chicago looked to be in control of the tight fought game, however, the Storm answered back with three goals of their own.

Gunnarwolfe Fontaine with amazing patience rips home the rebound!
@ChicagoSteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/lAdEKHooRr

— USHL (@USHL) February 24, 2019

With the score 3–2 in favor of the Storm, John Spetz scored at the 17:35 mark of the third period to tie the game and force overtime.

Johnny Spetz ties the game, and then finishes the job in OVERTIME! @ChicagoSteel win #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/HzCqkBCWQr

— USHL (@USHL) February 24, 2019

In overtime, Spetz scored again, at the 1:08 mark, to give the Steel a split on the road. Both goals were assisted by Pietroniro, Mastrosimone and Justin Robbins, respectively.

Chicago 3, Omaha 2

Forced to move the game back a few hours because of inclement weather, the Steel beat the Omaha Lancers 2–1 behind 24 saves by goaltender Reilly Herbst, topping of a successful road trip out west.

Forward Jake Schmaltz started the scoring for the Steel when he buried a shot past Omaha goaltender Akira Schmid. The goal, Schamltz’s third on the season, was assisted by Fontaine and Shea.

Jake Schmaltz finishes off some beautiful passing from the @ChicagoSteel! #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/DAvBUv6rin

— USHL (@USHL) February 25, 2019

The Lancers tied the score early in the second period, only to have the Steel score the game winner at the 4:56 mark of the second period. Josh Groll scored his seventh on the season. The goal was set up by a nice play from Quisenberry.

Watch this unreal kick pass from Cole Quisenberry to set up Josh Groll (@ChicagoSteel) #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/fn2ET63ORT

— USHL (@USHL) February 25, 2019

The Steel are back in action in Dubuque, Friday March 1, at 7:05 p.m. and play the following night at Fox Valley Arena against the same Fighting Saints, also a 7:05 p.m. puck drop. The Steel home game will be the 2^nd Annual Weiner Dog Races, followed by a post-game skate with the Steel.

The post The Steel Deal: Chicago Splits at Tri-City, Beats Omaha appeared first on The Rink.

Head coach Jeremy Colliton called upon Cam Ward as his starter in net. Dallas head coach Jim Montgomery started Anton Khudobin.

Chicago Blackhawks Starting Lineup
Drake Caggiula–Jonathan Toews–Patrick Kane
Alex DeBrincat–Dylan Strome–Dominik Kahun
Brandon Saad–Artem Anisimov–Dylan Sikura
Chris Kunitz–Marcus Kruger–John Hayden
Duncan Keith–Brent Seabrook
Slater Koekkoek–Erik Gustafsson
Gustav Forsling–Connor Murphy

PERIOD ONE
Both teams started the game slowly. A few icing and offsides whistles generated zero momentum from either team. Also, the matinee crowd still appeared to be asleep.

Dallas had the best opportunity early, as Dallas found themselves 4-on-2 but Cam Ward came up big with a save. With just over six minutes gone in the game, the teams were tied at 4–4 in shots.

After Slater Koekkoek lost his skate blade, the Stars took the lead when forward Radek Faksa scored his eleventh goal of the season. Faksa’s goal was assisted by newsy acquired forward Mats Zuccarello and center Jason Dickinson.

Mats Zuccarello gets his first assist as a Dallas Star as he sets up Radek Faksa for this breakaway goal. #GoStars pic.twitter.com/5Y5UzN6yf0

— X – Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) February 24, 2019

Dallas took a 2–0 lead at the 17:28 mark, when forward Alexander Radulov buried home his 17^th goal this season. The goal, assisted by defenseman Miro Heiskanen resulted from a horrible clearing attempt by Gustav Forsling up the middle of the Blackhawks’ own zone.

So pretty. Miro Heiskanen holds the zone and without hesitation, he sets up Rads right in front of the net for a 2-0 lead. #GoStars pic.twitter.com/gnN1LXh4vh

— X – Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) February 24, 2019

After the first period, Chicago led in shots 13–12 but were outplayed for most of the second half of the period.

PERIOD TWO
Zuccarello scored his first goal as a member of the Dallas Stars, at the 1:44 mark of the second period, to extend the lead to 3–0. The Norwegian buried a shot past Ward from a nice cross ice pass from center Tyler Seguin.

Welcome to the Stars, @zuccarello36! #GoStars pic.twitter.com/YpBkEiCk6k

— X – Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) February 24, 2019

Just over a minute later, Chicago finally dented the net when Chris Kunitz scored his sixth goal of the season, assisted by Marcus Kruger and Duncan Keith. Keith found a streaking Kruger along the left-half boards, who in turn, slid a nice pass to Kunitz between the circles.

Chris comes through!#CHIvsDAL pic.twitter.com/ArdrPFeQkL

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 24, 2019

Drake Caggiula cut the Dallas lead to one with his eleventh goal of the season after an excellent pass form Keith. The goal went to review as the call on the ice was no goal initially. However, the hockey folks back in Toronto deemed it a goal.

FURTHER REVIEW of Drake Caggiula's goal in the 2nd period pic.twitter.com/Avqo1Q8WEq

— NBC Sports Chicago (@NBCSChicago) February 24, 2019

Chicago outshot the Stars 20–14 in the second period.

PERIOD THREE
Jonathan Toews tied the game 3–3 with a nice wrist shot whistled by Khudobin’s glove. The goal, Toew’s 29^th, was assisted by Gustafsson.

The Captain makes it happen! #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/94wNsaFH8O

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 24, 2019

Jason Spezza scored on a 5-on-3 power play after Chicago took a bench minor for too-many-men on the ice penalty, followed up by a tripping call on Keith less than a minute later. Spezza tipped in a nice pass from Radulov. The goal gave the Stars the lead back at 4 – 3.

SPEZZA!!! The Stars get a 5-on-3 and they make it count, as Radulov connects with Spezza for a PPG to give the Stars a 4-3 lead! #GoStars pic.twitter.com/jMP8IBUuX4

— X – Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) February 24, 2019

Chicago found themselves on a four-minute power play to finish the game when defenseman Roman Polak drew blood on a high stick on Dominik Kahun. The Blackhawks saw a few “minor” chances swallowed up by Khudobin and could not even muster a shot after pulling Ward for the extra attacker.

Dallas not only won the game 4–3 but managed to keep Patrick Kane off the scoresheet, snapping his 20-game point streak. Chicago outshot the Stars 14–3 in the third period and 47–29 for the game.

THE GOOD
Chicago took 47 shots on goal, led by Patrick Kane’s seven shots. Alex DeBrincat, Brandon Saad and Cuggiula joined Kane as players with five or more shots in the game.

Falling behind 3 – 0 is never a recipe for success but the Blackhawks showed some character coming back to tie the game before ultimately falling short.

THE BAD
Chicago gave up another power play goal, which was the back-breaker in the third period. Dallas was 1-for-2 on the power play.

Gustav Forsling struggled with his zone exits, one turnover resulting in an easy goal for Dallas. Slater Koekkoek also struggled overall in the defensive end.

For a team that can give up 40 shots on any given night, Ward needed to be better only seeing 29 shots today.

Jamie Benn played only 1:19 but Chicago could not take advantage of the Stars forward being injured early.

Chicago needed four points this weekend against Colorado and Dallas and came away with zero.

The post RECAP: Chicago Comeback Falls Short, Lose To Dallas 4–3 appeared first on The Rink.

The Chicago Steel defeated the Eastern Conference leading Muskegon Lumberjacks 6–1 behind their strong special teams play. Chicago scored three times on the man advantage and once shorthanded, while exploding for five straight unanswered goals.

Forward Nick Abruzzese opened the scoring for the Steel, on the power play. Chicago defenseman Matteo Pietroniro sent a nice shot toward the Lumberjack goaltender Brandon Bussi, only to have his rebound pounded home by Abruzzese. Forward Robert Mastrosimone was also credited with an assist on the play.

The Lumberjacks tied the game only 20 seconds later. Forward Jagger Joshua found the back of the net after multiple chances in close. The goal would be the only one Steel goaltender Justin Robbins stopped 24-of-25 shots for the game.

Chicago took the lead for good when Mastrosimone fired a wrist shot past the glove of Bussi, giving Chicago their second power play tall on the night. The goal, Mastrosimone’s 19^th on the season, was assisted by Abruzzese and defenseman John Spetz.

Mastrosimone out for target practice this evening @ChicagoSteel take back the lead #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/8u8Z2zCxCA

— USHL (@USHL) February 16, 2019

Mastrosimone scored again for Chicago, their third straight power play goal, only 30 seconds into the second period, as the crafty forward finished a nice passing play with Abruzzese and Pietroniro. The goal extended Chicago’s lead to 3–1.

Chicago scored again on special teams, this time shorthanded, when forward Cole Quisenberry beat Bussi on the breakaway. The goal, Quisenberry’s eighth on the season, forced the Lumberjacks to make a change in net as Ryan McInchak replaced Bussi.

Skate fast.
Score goals.
Cole Quisenberry nets a shorty @ChicagoSteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/NfYjsj11zC

— USHL (@USHL) February 16, 2019

Defenseman Owen Power scored his seventh goal of the season, at the 14:44 mark of the second period, to give Chicago a 5–1 lead. The goal, assisted by Abruzzese and forward Gunnarwolfe Fontaine, gave the University of Michigan commit seven goals on the year.

Defenseman Jimmy Dowd scored his first goal of the season with less than five minutes to play in the game and giving the Steel the 6–1 victory.

USA 7, Chicago 2

Chicago would finish 0-for-6 on the power play and struggled for an eight-minute stretch in the second period, resulting in a tough 7–2 loss. The Steel played better than what the score indicated, however, Team USA U18’s showed their speed, depth and relentless forechecking throughout the game.

After Team USA scored 30 seconds into the game, Chicago responded with two quick goals late in the first period. Forward Nick Abruzzese scored his 20^th goal of the season, burying a shot past Team USA goaltender Cameron Rowe. Less than a minute later, forward Cole Quisenberry beat Rowe to give the Steel a 2 – 1 lead. The goal was set up by a beautiful pass by forward Robert Mastrosimone.

2⃣-on-1⃣
Mastrosimone to Quisenberry
Need we say more? @ChicagoSteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/uuIFjIZSFS

— USHL (@USHL) February 17, 2019

Chicago took a 2–1 lead into the first intermission but looked a bit flatfooted in the second period. Team USA scored five unanswered goals in the frame, to take a 6–2 lead into the third period.

The only score off the third period came from the stick of defenseman Domenick Fensore. The goal capped off Team USA’s 7–2 victory. The loss snapped the Steel’s 14-game home winning streak.

Chicago plays the next four games on the road starting with three games this weekend, beginning with the USHL leading Tri-City Storm on Friday and Saturday, before heading to Omaha for a Sunday matinee with the Lancers. The fourth straight road game is the following weekend, March 1, against the Dubuque Fighting Saints. Chicago will then return home on March 2 for the backend of the home-and-home.

The post The Steel Deal: Chicago Beats Muskegon, Falls to Team USA appeared first on The Rink.

The Harvard University commit leads all USHL scorers this season with 54 points (18 goals, 36 assists) and finished this past weekend with 5 points (2 goals, 3 assists) while on the road at Sioux Falls and Sioux City.

“This weekend was a great opportunity for Nick to measure his game against some of the biggest names in the USHL as far as the 2019 NHL Draft is concerned,” said General Manager Ryan Hardy. “His development trajectory this season has been tremendous and he has established himself as arguably the best player in the league with his play.”

Overall, this weekly award is the fourth time this season a Chicago Steel player has been named a “Player of the Week.” Including Aburzzese’s two honors, defenseman Matteo Pietroniro and goaltender Reilly Herbst have also been named at their respective positions.

The post Abruzzese Named USHL Forward of the Week appeared first on The Rink.

Sioux Falls 8, Chicago 6

Chicago started the scoring midway through the first period when forward Nick Abruzzese scored his 17th goal of the season. The goal, assisted by forward Mathieu De St. Phalle and defenseman Luke Reid fave the Steel the lead for 43 seconds before the Stampede tied the game. The goal would put Abruzzese over the 50 point mark for the season, the first player to do so this season in the USHL.

After outshooting the Stampede 12–4 in the first period of play, the game was tied at 1–1 heading into the first intermission.

Sioux Falls scored at the 2:21 mark of the second period to take the lead 2–1. The goal, unassisted, scored by forward Andre Lee, would only be the start of a back-to-back wild-scoring in the game.

Steel defenseman Owen Power tied the score at the 5:11 mark of the second period, beating Stampede goaltender Alex Calvaruso. The goal, assisted by forward Cole Quisenberry, was the University of Michigan commit’s sixth goal of the year.

Another quick strike by the Stampede gave them a 3–2 lead with just under fourteen minutes to play in the second period.

Chicago tied the game when Abruzzese scored his second goal of the game. Assisted by forwards Robert Mastrosimone and De St. Phalle, the goal (18) gave the Harvard commit nine points in his last seven games.

Both teams would combine for eight goals in the third period, started by Mastrosimone scoring :12 into the period. The goal, assisted by De. St. Phalle and Power, gave Chicago their only lead in the game at 4–3.

Sioux Falls scored only a few minutes later to tie the game at 4–4, before taking the lead again. The goals, scored by Stampede forward Artem Ivanyuzhenkov and defenseman Brandon Tabakin, were scored 1:12 apart.

Chicago forward Gunnarwolfe Fontaine tied the game with his 15^th goal of the season, extending his point streak to eight games (7 goals, 2 assists).

Lee scored his second goal of the game, on the power play, to give the Stampede the lead at 6–5.

The Stampede found the back of the net two more times to extend their lead to 8–5. Forward Anthony Romano scored his 14^th of the season, moments before Lee finished off his hat trick with an empty net goal.

Steel forward Christian Sarlo scored his tenth goal of the season, assisted by Jim Dowd and Matthew Sutton, at the 19:57 mark of the game, giving the Stampede the 8–6 victory.

Chicago 5, Sioux City 3

Chicago would open the game on Saturday a little flat and found themselves trailing 2–0 after the first period. The Musketeers outshot the Steel 9–2 in the period.

After regrouping at the first intermission, Chicago cut the Sioux City lead in half when forward Travis Treloar scored his 13^th goal this season. The goal, assisted by forwards Cole Quisenberry and Robert Mastrosimone, was finished off on a nice breakaway goal by the Western Michigan commit.

Travis Treloar breakaway GOAL @ChicagoSteel pull within #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/KjVz4CzWD0

— USHL (@USHL) February 10, 2019

Sioux City extended their lead to 3–1 when winger Kevin Lombardi scored his sixth goal of the season. The goal would be the last one to beat Steel goaltender Reilly Herbst.

At the 14:39 mark of the third period, Gunnarwolfe Fontaine continued his hot scoring with his 16^th of the season, assisted by Nick Abruzzese and Neal Shea.

After two periods of play, Chicago was outshot 21–10 but held the momentum going into the second intermission.

Forward Neal Shea tied the score only 25 seconds into the third period. The goal, Shea’s 11^th on the season, was assisted by Fontaine and Abruzzese.

Chicago Blackhawk’s forward prospect Josiah Slavin gave Chicago the Steel their first lead of the game, 4–3, when he buried home a nice pass from Abruzzese, beating Sioux City goaltender Jake Sibell.

Perfect execution from the @ChicagoSteel finished off by Slavin #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/QlyOM1l23Z

— USHL (@USHL) February 10, 2019

Chicago finished off the scoring with an empty net goal, at the 18:57 mark, to give them the 5–3 victory. Forward Mathieau De St. Phalle found the empty net for his seventh goal of the season, assisted by defenseman Owen Power.

Chicago will look to extend its 13-game home win streak, on February 15, when Muskegon comes to town for a 7:05 p.m. puck drop for Military Appreciation/Hometown Heroes night. The Steel will then host Team USA U18 on Saturday, February 16, for a 7:05 p.m. contest. The first 500 fans will receive a collectible Steel snow globe.

TRADE ALERT FROM FEBRUARY 5
The Chicago Steel traded forward Adam Gajarsky, a 2019 Phase II 3rd round pick and a 2019 Phase I 9th round pick to the Fargo Force for a 2019 Phase I 2nd round pick and a 2019 Phase II 6th round pick.

https://twitter.com/ryanphardy/status/1094465188638720000

The post The Steel Deal: Chicago Splits Sioux Road Trip appeared first on The Rink.

The Chicago Steel traveled to Plymouth, MI to take on Team USA U18, this past Friday, and lost a hard-fought contest 5–4. The loss snapped a seven-game win streak for Chicago. Newly acquired winger Josiah Slavin, a Chicago Blackhawks’ draft pick last season, scored twice to lead the Steel.

Team USA found the scoresheet first when forward Michael Gildon scored his seventh goal of the season. The Ohio State commit’s goals was assisted by defensemen Case McCarthy and Marshall Warren.

5⃣0⃣0⃣ goals later…@MichaelGildon does the honor: pic.twitter.com/iBmZsoulkX

— USA Hockey’s NTDP (@USAHockeyNTDP) February 2, 2019

Just over a minute later, Chicago tied the game when Slavin tipped home a goal from a nice set up by Jimmy Dowd. Robert Mastrosimone set up the play with a nice cross-ice pass to Dowd. Slavin found himself in front of the net for the tip-in.

Josiah Slavin is on with his new team!@ChicagoSteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/y6KnIdIX5a

— USHL (@USHL) February 2, 2019

At the 11:31 mark of the first period, Team USA took a 2–1 lead when forward Judd Caulfield scored his first goal of the season. Caulfield would not be done on the scoresheet, however. The North Dakota commit assisted on Danny Weight’s fifth goal of the season, midway through the second period, to give Team USA a 3 – 1 advantage.

Weight for it … @dannyweight extends Team USA's lead to 3-1 after a slap pass from Judd Caulfield!#NTDP |#USAvsCHI pic.twitter.com/DYoF8UVgRy

— USA Hockey’s NTDP (@USAHockeyNTDP) February 2, 2019

Chicago scored at the 8:06 mark of the second period to cut the lead to one, when Neil Shea buried home his tenth goal of the season, from a nice pass by Mastrosimone.

Robert Mastrosimone makes it happen, even when tightly defended

Neil Shea finishes it off!@ChicagoSteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/wXyq99ObyT

— USHL (@USHL) February 2, 2019

Weight would score his second of the night, sixth of the season, unassisted at the 12:13 mark of the period to extend the lead back to two for Team USA.

Gunnarwolfe Fontaine responded with a pretty goal of his own, his twelfth of the season, assisted by Ville Rasanen and Jake Schmaltz. Fontaine has played excellent this season, so much so, the RPI commit should begin to receive more attention from NHL scouts.

https://twitter.com/ryanphardy/status/1091886643961884673

Chicago tied the game at the 1:07 mark in the third period when Slavin scored his second goal of the game, thirteenth of the season. The Steel would find some nice chances after the Slavin goal but could not put another goal on the board.

Team USA would strike last last, at the 8:46 mark, to take the 5–4 lead and hang on for the victory. The goal, scored by Boston University commit Alex Vlasic, was assisted by Alex Turcotte and Matthew Boldy.

Chicago goaltender Reilly Herbst made 26 saves on the night. Even though this is not a team looking for moral victories, as the Steel are a legit contender for the Clark Cup, Chicago was a bounce away from taking a game from the Team USA U18 on the road.

Chicago 4, Youngstown 0

The Steel returned home on Saturday for a spirited contest with the Youngstown Phantoms. Chicago kept their cool as the Phantoms tried to play a physical game, which helped lead the home team to an impressive 4–0 game.

Chicago goaltender Justin Robbins stopped all 23 Phantom shots. The Quinnipiac commit was not tested early, as he faced on shot through the first half of the first period, but came up big when needed.

Gunnarwolfe Fontaine scored first for the Steel, at the 6:53 mark of the first period, when the East Greenwich, RI native roofed a shot over the glove of Phantom’s goaltender Chad Veltri. The power play goal, assisted by Adam Robbins and John Spetz, gave Fontaine the first of two goals tonight.

Hard work by @ChicagoSteel in the corners leads to this beauty by Gunnarwolfe Fontaine! #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/4bMIxRxD9N

— USHL (@USHL) February 3, 2019

Chicago scored less than a minute later when Owen Powers fired a shot past Veltri, scoring his fifth goal of the season. The hulking University of Michigan commit’s goal was assisted Cole Quisenberry and Luke Reid.

At the 3:06 mark of the second period, Chicago took a 3–0 lead on a pretty goal by Robert Mastrosimone. The goal gave Mastrosimone 17 goals on the season, and the #5 play on Sportscenter’s Top 10 Plays.

Here's #WeAreSteel forward Robert Mastrosimone (@rmastro9424) making @SportsCenter's Top 10 Plays at #5! pic.twitter.com/iFqlKY4vOE

— Chicago Steel (@ChicagoSteel) February 3, 2019

Chicago added the final goal of the game in the third period when Fontaine scored on the power play, set up by Dowd.

The shutout victory moved the Steel record to 25–13–1–0 (51 points) and strengthened their hold on second place in the Eastern Conference over the Phantoms by nine points.

The Steel play both games this weekend, Feb 8 and Feb 9, on the road. Friday the Steel take on the Sioux Falls Stampede at 7:05 p.m. then travel to Sioux City for a contest with the Musketeers at 7:05 p.m.

The post The Steel Deal: Chicago Splits Weekend, Led By Robbins Shutout of Phantoms appeared first on The Rink.

Coach Jeremy Colliton called upon Cam Ward to open the post-break three-game road trip. Sabres’ caoch Phil Housley started Carter Hutton in net.

Chicago Blackhawks’ Starting Lineup

Drake Caggiula–Jonathan Toews–Patrick Kane
Alex DeBrincat–Dylan Strome–Dominik Kahun
Brandon Saad–David Kampf–Marcus Kruger
Chris Kunitz–Artem Anisimov–John Hayden
Duncan Keith–Brent Seabrook
Carl Dahlstrom–Connor Murphy
Slater Koekkoek–Erik Gustafsson

PERIOD ONE

The Buffalo Sabres controlled much of the first half of the period, outshooting the Blackhawks 14–7 in the frame. Cam Ward showed flashes of his former self with several excellent stops on grade A chances by the Sabres.

Even after being dominated for the period, Chicago would find the back of the net first when forward Drake Caggiula scored his first goal in a Blackhawks’ sweater. The goal, assisted by defenseman Gustav Forsling, put the visitors up 1–0 at the 18:38 mark of the period.

First goal as a Blackhawk and what a goal it was!#CHIvsBUF pic.twitter.com/HsbCincuwC

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 2, 2019

SECOND PERIOD

The Blackhawks extended their lead to 2–0 when forward Patrick Kane scored his 30th goal of the season, and his 900th career point, at the :50 mark of the period. Kane took a nice stretch pass from defenseman Erik Gustafsson and beat Sabres goaltender Carter Hutton blocker side.

.@88PKane gives the #Blackhawks a 2-0 lead early in Period 2 with a wicked wrister, his 30th goal of the season and 900th @NHL point!#SHOWTIME pic.twitter.com/OijSCBzu9m

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 2, 2019

Less than five minutes later, defenseman Duncan Keith fired a shot on goal from the left circle, stopped by Hutton, but found the puck laying on the doorstep and banged home the rebound to extend Chicago’s lead to 3–0. The goal gave the two-time Norris Trophy winner his second tally of the season.

The Blackhawks go from one end to the other in a hurry and Duncan Keith scores his second goal of the season.

STREAM: https://t.co/KDJhXTBCYm pic.twitter.com/tnP0vltM0V

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) February 2, 2019

Buffalo finally solved the brick wall that was Ward in net. Sabres’ center Jack Eichel tipped home a shot from defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen, giving the 22-year old 17 goals on the season.

Jack with the deflection on Risto's shot. pic.twitter.com/MSq5gUAKNb

— Buffalo Sabres (@BuffaloSabres) February 2, 2019

Less than a minute and a half later, forward Brandon Saad found the puck on his stick after a nice cross-ice pass from forward David Kampf. Saad, scoring his 16th goal of the season, beat Hutton to give the Blackhawks a 4–1 lead heading into the second intermission.

.@BSaad20 goes top cheese!#Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/coK6RUrm3R

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 2, 2019

PERIOD THREE

The Sabres would waste no time getting themselves right back into the hockey game, scoring two goals in the first 7:16 in the period. Chicago played much of this time on their heels, struggling to clear their own end and force any pressure in the offensive zone.

Goals by forwards Jason Pominville and Kyle Okposo cut the Blackhawks’ lead to 4–3.

The pass from Skins.. Pommer the finish pic.twitter.com/PlN2odi1pi

— Buffalo Sabres (@BuffaloSabres) February 2, 2019

Don't. Go. Anywhere.#LetsGoBuffalo pic.twitter.com/DygXR0rhTS

— Buffalo Sabres (@BuffaloSabres) February 2, 2019

The good news for the Blackhawks, the rest of the period belonged to them. A team that has struggled to hold leads and play with confidence late in games, showed some great poise and character to bounce back after the two Sabres goals.

Defenseman Connor Murphy ripped a shot past the glove of Hutton, giving the 25-year old his second goal on the season. The goal, assisted by forwards Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane, was the goal the team needed.

No. 5 tallies the #Blackhawks' fifth goal of the game#Fitting pic.twitter.com/cwdHqGf7OY

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 2, 2019

Kane scored his second goal of the night, fourth point of the game, into an empty net at the 17:13 mark. Just over two minutes later, Saad scored his second goal of the game when he found the puck on his stick after a horrible Sabres turnover in their own end, resulting in Saad’s seventeenth goal on the season.

Brandon Saad has his second goal of the night, too. #Blackhawks win 7-3. pic.twitter.com/lvHoFHRsUs

— Cristiano Simonetta (@CMS_74_) February 2, 2019

Although being outshot by the Sabres 43–30, Chicago came out on top 7–3.

THE GOOD 

• Chicago showed something in the third period when the Sabres cut the lead to one goal. The team has struggled putting together a bounce back goal when things have gone wrong this season. It was a small glimpse of the Chicago team we grew accustomed to in their cup runs.
• Cam Ward was solid tonight stopping 40 of the 43 shots he faced this evening. This game easily could have gone the Sabres way without some key stops early on.
• Patrick Kane continued his scoring ways with two goals and two assists. Kane now has 75 points on the season, trailing only Lightning forward Nikita Kucherov by four points for the NHL lead.
• Brandon Saad scored twice. Saad can still be a nice secondary scoring option for this team, even if his name gets thrown around in trade rumors.
• Drake Caggiula registered three points tonight (1 goal, 2 assists).

THE BAD

• The Sabres registered 43 shots on goal. This has been an issue the whole season. Not to sound like a broken record but Chicago must get better in their defensive end. This is the achilles’ heel of this team.
• Buffalo won 55% of the draws tonight and controlled much of the action. The cameraman was not very busy trying to keep track of the puck tonight. If confused, chances were it was in Chicago’s end of the ice.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks Beat Sabres 7–3 appeared first on The Rink.

The Chicago Steel opened the weekend dominating the Fargo Force 8–2 at Fox Valley Arena. Newly acquired Chicago Blackhawks’ forward prospect Josiah Slavin scored his first goal as part of the Chicago Steel. The eight goals scored by Chicago was a season high.

Fargo scored first as forward Zach Faremouth gave the visitors the lead halfway through the opening frame. However, the lead would not last long, as Chicago would rip off the next six goals of the contest.

Opening the scoring for the Steel was forward Cole Quisenberry. The Brown University commit buried a wrist shot past Fargo goaltender Matthew Sankner. The goal, assisted by forward Matthew Sutton and defenseman John Spetz, was Quisenberry’s seventh goal of the season.

Less than a minute later, forward Robert Mastrosimone scored his fifteenth goal of the season, burying the puck past Sankner from a nice feed from center Adam Robbins. Forward Mathieu De St. Phalle would also assist on the play.

Never leave a alone in the slot… @ChicagoSteel lead #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/PfQpjHZ7tv

— USHL (@USHL) January 27, 2019

Chicago would take a 3–1 lead into the first intermission after Slavin scored his eleventh goal of the season, first in a Steel sweater. Forward Gunnarwolfe Fontaine slid a nice pass over to Slavin for the goal. Defenseman Luke Reid also assisted on the goal.

Normally we don't approve of diving… but in this case, we'll allow it @ChicagoSteel #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/TqBSb3e2Vt

— USHL (@USHL) January 27, 2019

Chicago was outshot in the first period 9 – 6, but buried half of their chances.

The second period would be much of the same, as the Steel poured in four goals on sixteen shots, taking a 7–2 lead into the second intermission.

Mastrosimone scored his second goal of the game to start the period. The goal, assisted by forward Nick Abruzesse and De St. Phalle came within the first minute of the period.

The Boston University commits goal brought a change in net for the Fargo Force. Sankner was pulled for Ryan Bischel.

The onslaught of goals continued when defenseman Matteo Pietroniro scored his USHL defensemen leading thirteenth goal of the season. The power play goal was assisted by Slavin and Abruzesse.

At the 10:00 mark of the period, forward Adam Gajarsky scored his first career USHL goal. The Kromeriz, CZE native fired a shot past the glove of Bischel. The goal gave Gajarsky three points (1 goal, 2 assists) in his last four games. Quisenberry assisted on the play.

Fargo would pull Bischel for Sankner, keeping the goalie carousel in motion.

With the score 6–1, Fargo got back on the scoresheet with a goal from forward Ben Meyers, giving him 25 goals on the season.

The Steel entered the third period with the 6–2 lead but would not be satisfied. Defenseman Owen Power scored his fourth goal of the season, at the 15:26 mark of the period. Assists on the goal were credited to forward Christian Sarlo and Jake Schmaltz.

Western Michigan commit Travis Treloar would finish off the scoring when he beat Sankner to give the Steel the 8–2 victory. The goal, assisted by Spetz, gave Treloar 11 goals on the season.

Steel goaltender Justin Robbins stopped 23 of the 25 shots faced in the game, improving his record to 16–8–1–0. The victory also gave Chicago their eleventh straight win at home.

Post-Game interview: Head Coach Greg Moore: CLICK HERE
Post-Game Interview: Josiah Slavin: CLICK HERE

Chicago 4, Fargo 2

The Steel would be right back in action the following day for a matinee game with the Fargo Force. With the 4–2 victory, Chicago would extend their overall win streak to seven games, while extending their home win streak to twelve games.

Chicago found the scoreboard first when Nick Abruzesse scored shorthanded. The Harvard University commit buried a nice pass from forward Robert Mastrosimone, after pulling Fargo goaltender Ryan Bischel out of his crease.

The makes it happen.

The finishes it off.

(@ChicagoSteel) #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/D9cpnqdH9i

— USHL (@USHL) January 27, 2019

The lead would not last long as the Force scored on the same penalty to tie the game at 1–1. Fargo would also take the lead late in the period, giving them the lead 2–1 with just over three minutes left in the first period.

Forward Travis Treloar tied the game, at the 18:42 mark of the first period, firing a shot past Bischel, for his fourteenth goal of the season. The goal, assisted by defensemen Luke Reid and Matteo Pietroniro, would lead the Steel into the intermission with the momentum.

Chicago scored the lone goal of the second period when Pietroniro beat Bishel. Forward Jake Schmaltz found Pietroniro, who fired a shot for his fourteenth goal of the season.

Matteo Pietroniro buries a great feed from Jake Schmaltz.

The @ChicagoSteel are back up by a goal. #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/6HuThmj1lD

— USHL (@USHL) January 27, 2019

The tightly contested game would remain 3–2 until Chicago found the back of the net, at the 19:45 mark of the third period. Abruzesse scored his second of the game when forward Mathieu De St. Phalle found Abruzesse with a nice feed.

Chicago (24–12–1–0) was led again by Justin Robbins in net stopping 16 of the 18 shots faced.

Post-game Interview: Head Coach Greg Moore: CLICK HERE

On Friday, the Steel travel to Michigan to take on Team USA at 6:00 p.m. The Steel are back in action, at home, this Saturday, February 2, for Chicago Blackhawks Night when the Steel face off with the Youngstown Phantoms, at 7:05 p.m. Stanley Cup champion Brandon Bollig and mascot Tommy Hawk with make special guest appearances.

The post The Steel Deal: Chicago Sweeps Fargo, Extends Steak To Seven Games appeared first on The Rink.

The Boise, ID native registered five points (3 goals, 2 assists) in the three games. The left-handed shooting defenseman also recorded a +6 rating over the week. With 14 goals this season, Pietroniro leads all USHL defensemen, trailing by one point for the overall lead with 33 points (14 goals, 19 assists).

The honor is the third for the Chicago Steel organization this season. Goaltender Reilly Herbst and center Nick Abruzesse both received honors for the first week of December. Abruzesse was named USHL forward of the Week, while Herbst garnered USHL Goalie of the Week.

USHL Defenseman of the Week Matteo Pietroniro (@ChicagoSteel) found the back of the net in all three of his games en route to a five-point week.https://t.co/EQo4JXMoxb #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/Vj11tAtIPx

— USHL (@USHL) January 28, 2019

The post Pietroniro Named USHL Defenseman of the Week appeared first on The Rink.

On Friday, Chicago fell behind quickly when Cedar Rapids scored just over a minute into the game. However, this would be all the RoughRiders would manage on the score sheet. Chicago turned the table with three goals of their own, ending in a 3 – 1 victory at Fox Valley Arena.

Christian Sarlo put the Steel on the board with just over four minutes to play in the first period. The RPI commit extended his goal streak to three games with the marker, a simple shot through traffic that found its way to the back of the net.

In the second period, Chicago scored twice to extend their lead, which would turn out all they would need. Winger Ryan Shea whacked home his own rebound, at the 2:03 mark, which found its way past Cedar Rapid’s goaltender Troy Kobryn. Shea’s goal extended his point streak to three games.

Two minutes later, Travis Treloar extended the lead his point streak to five games after burying one past Kobryn. The Western Michigan commit was the recipient of a nice play started by center Adam Robbins and defenseman John Spatz.

There would be no scoring in the third period. Chicago would take the 3 – 1 victory. Head coach Greg Moore liked his teams effort, video courtesy of the Chicago Steel.

Post Game Interview: Greg Moore November 23, 2018 Chicago Steel https://t.co/cWEX5MKO93 via @YouTube

— Ray Napientek (@NapsakRay) November 26, 2018

The Steel would head south to Bloomington, IL to take on the Central Illinois Flying Aces on Saturday. The hard fought battle would end in a 4 – 2 victory for the Steel, capped off by a two-goal third period.

Flying Aces forward Tate Singleton scored just over one minute into the game, on the first shot for the Aces, and gave the home team the early lead. Chicago had now fallen behind early in both games on the weekend.

Steel left wing Robert Mastrosimone would tie the game at 1 – 1 on a goal assisted by Owen Power. The assist would be Power’s first of his USHL career.

Less than two minutes later, the Flying Aces would regain the lead and enter the first intermission ahead 2 – 1.

However, that would be all Steel goaltender Justin Robbins would allow. The third-year Steel veteran would turn aside the next 25 shots he would face, giving him his second victory on the weekend.

A pair of power play goals from defensemen Uula Ruikka and Matteo Pietroniro gave Chicago the lead. Ruikka’s goal, in the second period, found the back of the net with a shot from the point. Pietroniro’s goal, early in the third period, beat the Flying Aces goaltender glove side, giving the Steel their first lead of the game.

Mastrosimone scored his second goal of the night after picking up a nice pass from center Adam Robbins and firing a nice shot, giving the Steel the insurance goal with just over two minutes in the game.

The Steel held on for the 4 – 2 and extended their winning streak to five games.

WHAT’S NEXT – Central Illinois Flying Aces at Chicago Steel on November 30th – CRAZY HAT NIGHT

The Chicago Steel return home for Crazy Hat Night presented by School of Art. The special helmet auction will benefit the Alyssa Alvin Foundation for Hope. The Steel will be wearing the individually designed helmets from local students and artists. Each helmet will be auctioned through a silent auction during the game. All proceeds will be given to the Alyssa Alvin Foundation for Hope.

This Friday night the Steel will become the first team in hockey history to wear individually designed helmets to be auctioned off to support kids battling cancer! It’s Crazy Hat Night presented by School of Art to support the Alyssa Alvin Foundation for Hope. pic.twitter.com/kVbiPVvn2w

— Chicago Steel (@ChicagoSteel) November 25, 2018

The post The Steel Deal: Steel Extend Winning Streak to Five appeared first on The Rink.

6 p.m. CST/7 p.m. EST
Capital One Arena
TV/Radio: WGN/WGN

PROJECTED STARTERS

Chicago – Corey Crawford (5–6–1, SV%: 0.922 GAA: 2.44)
Washington – Braden Holtby (6–5–2, SV%: 0.906 GAA: 3.07)

TEAM STATISTICS

Power Play
Chicago (14.1%, 29^th)
Washington (26.7%, 4th)

Penalty Kill
Chicago (74.6%, T-26th)
Washington (73.3%, 29th)

Shorts for/against
Chicago (32.4, 12^th; 33.4, 28th)
Washington (30.8, 20th; 32.3, 20th)

Shooting %
Chicago (8.2%, 26th)
Washington (10.9%, T-5th)

Faceoff %
Chicago (49.8%, 17^th)
Washington (48.9%, 20th)

Avg. height/weight
Chicago 6’1”, 195lbs
Washington 6’1” 204lbs

PROJECTED LINEUPS/PAIRINGS

Chicago Blackhawks

Brandon Saad–Jonathan Toews–Patrick Kane
Alex DeBrincat–Artem Anisimov–Nick Schmaltz
Alexandre Fortin–David Kampf–Dominik Kahun
John Hayden–Marcus Kruger–Andreas Martinsen
Duncan Keith–Brent Seabrook
Erik Gustafsson–Henri Jokiharju
Brandon Manning–Jan Rutta

Washington Capitals

Alex Ovechkin–Lars Eller–Tom Wilson
Jakub Vrana–Nicklas Backstrom–Andre Burakovsky
Chandler Stephenson–Travis Boyd–Devante Smith-Pelly
Dmitrij Jaskin–Nic Dowd–Brett Connolly
Dmitry Orlov–John Carlson
Michal Kempny–Matt Niskanen
Christian Djoos–Madison Bowey

Analysis

Having earned a point in four straight games (2–0–2), the Chicago Blackhawks take on the defending Stanley Cup champion Washington Capitals. Tonight’s game starts a stretch of five road games in the Hawks’ next six contests.

Corey Crawford, having turned aside 39 shots against the Wild on Sunday, will be opposite Braden Holtby in net. Both goalies have had their ups and downs in their playoff runs—Crawford having been pulled in round one in 2015 and Holtby starting last year’s playoffs on the bench—however, both are directly responsible for their team’s Stanley Cup success.

Chicago tallied a power play goal on Sunday, giving them two straight games scoring on the man advantage. Jonathan Toews, who tallied the goal, is on a four-game point streak (two goals, three assists).

Forward Alex Ovechkin leads the Capitals with 15 goals this season. The captain is tied in points with forward Nicklas Backstrom with 23 points each, respectively.

Tonight’s contest will be a good matchup for the Blackhawks’ defense. The Capitals can score in waves and can turn a power play into an easy goal. However, the Hawks have surrendered just two goals in the past three games.

Comment below in our live game thread tonight!

And look for the internet’s most robust recap of the game tomorrow morning on the-rink.com. 

The post Preview/Game Thread: Blackhawks vs. Capitals appeared first on The Rink.

Jeremy Colliton wasted no time getting a healthy Gustav Forsling into the lineup. The 22-year old defenseman forced Brandon Davidson and Jan Rutta into the press box for the evening.

This was your Blackhawks starting lineup:
Nick Schmaltz–Jonathan Toews–Patrick Kane
Alex DeBrincat–David Kampf–Dominik Kahun
Brandon Saad–Artem Anisimov–John Hayden
Chris Kunitz–Luke Johnson–Andreas Martinsen
Duncan Keith–Brent Seabrook
Erik Gustafsson–Henri Jokiharju
Brandon Manning-Gustav Forsling

The action early on was uneventful on both ends of the ice. At the first television timeout, the Hawks were outshooting the Blues 3-2. A slow start, in hindsight, was a great thing for Chicago as they looked more committed to the defensive end.

With just over eight minutes in the period, Blues forward Vladimir Tarasenko, on a 2-on-1 with winger Jordan Schmaltz, was stopped by Crawford. Crawford made a nice read as Schmaltz was forced to his backhand before shoveling a pass over to Tarasenko, who found himself in too deep, and could not tuck the puck in short side.

Exhibit A: pic.twitter.com/p5OCQA10GT

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) November 15, 2018

Following some end-to-end action, the Hawks generated an excellent opportunity after Brandon Saad made a nice play along the wall. John Hayden was the recipient of the Saad touch pass and threw an innocent looking shot on net at goaltender Jake Allen. A soft rebound found Artem Anisimov’s stick but the center could not bury home the rebound.

The period ended with the Blackhawks leading their opponents 10-8 in shots.

St. Louis came out gunning early in the second period. Center Ryan O’Reilly missed a great opportunity when his shot attempt went wide of the net. Crawford appeared to be in desperation mode but the Blues could not find the back of the net.

Less than a minute later, forward Tyler Bozak generated another quality chance for the Blues but was stoned by Crawford.

The Blues third early chance of the period, generated when Crawford misplayed a puck behind the net, also resulted in a nice save. Forward Robert Thomas found the puck on his stick, as Crawford scurried back into his net, but could not slip one past.

Three and a half minutes into the period, Tarasenko took a hooking penalty on Nick Schmaltz. The Hawks went on the power play for the first time tonight.

On the man advantage, Patrick Kane made a nice play along the boards, shaking loose from defenseman Ivan Barbashev, and found Jonathan Toews goal line extended with the pass. Toews took the puck hard to the net, only to find Brent Seabrook coming backdoor with a nice pass. Seabrook’s shot, initially stopped by Allen, ricochet off Jay Bouwmeester’s skate and into the Hawk’s net.

A goal's a goal!#CHIvsSTL pic.twitter.com/pJJlZ7lyfo

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) November 15, 2018

Seabrook’s goal, assisted by Toews and Kane, was his third of the season and a much needed power play goal. Hawks lead 1-0.

Midway through the middle frame, John Hayden put the Blues on the power play, after hooking Robby Fabbri. With not much action happening, it seemed the last thing the Hawks needed was to be shorthanded after taking the lead.

The penalty kill did an excellent job keeping the Blues from sustaining any pressure on Crawford, allowing only one shot on goal. Successfully killing off the penalty, after taking the lead, was a huge boost.

After a Blues turnover, with less than two minutes in the period, Toews found Kane streaking toward the net with a pass, only to have Kane hit the post with his shot. This would not be the last time the Hawks would draw iron.

After two periods, the Blues led in shots 18-15.

Committing to defense continued to be the Blackhawks’ theme. This was never more evident than in the third period. The Hawks would only generate four shots on goal in the last frame, however, went into their best lockdown mode of the season on defense.

The opponents generated some shots early but nothing too difficult for Crawford. With 7:49 left in the game, the Blues had only generated seven shots on goal for the period, none considered a high percentage chance.

The Hawks best offensive chance happened when Henri Jokiharju almost gave his team an insurance marker, with just under three minutes left to play. Schmaltz raced down the left wing and found Jokiharju trailing the play with a nice drop pass. The defenseman ringed a shot off the post, keeping the advantage 1-0.

Blues Coach Mike Yeo pulled the goaltender with 1:20 on the clock, but did not generate much action, until David Perron found himself on the doorstep with :18 to play, only to be denied by a sliding Crawford.

As the horn sounded, Crawford celebrated his 24^th shutout of his career, all the while, Jeremy Colliton quietly shook his assistants hands and walked off with his first NHL coaching victory.

#HAWKSWIN https://t.co/VM1IseBkTQ

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) November 15, 2018

The GOOD:

Corey Crawford bounced back after five straight losses in the crease. The veteran faced only 28 shots tonight but looked to be in great position all night. His confidence level looked great.

A power play goal. The Hawks may have received a little help from Bouwmeester but a power play goal is a power play goal.

Jeremy Colliton’s first NHL win. The 33-year old has been thrust into a difficult spot for any coach, let alone a rookie younger than some veterans.

THE BAD

Outshot 28-19. May be nitpicking here – especially after applauding the defensive effort – but the Hawks had been generating over 33 shots a game.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks Blank The Blues 1-0 appeared first on The Rink.

7:30pm Central, 5:30pm Mountain

United Center

TV/Radio: NBCSCH, FS-A/WGN

PROJECTED GOALIES:

Chicago:

Corey Crawford (.000 SV%, 0.00 GAA)

Arizona:

Antti Raanta (.903 SV%, 2.22 GAA)

Team statistics:

Power Play

Chicago (11.1%, T-24)

Arizona (13.3%, 23)

Penalty Kill

Chicago (64.7%, T-28)

Arizona (91.7%, 5)

Shots for/against per game

Chicago (36.8, 3 – 34.6, 26)

Arizona (35.6, 5 – 24.2, 1)

Shooting%

Chicago (12.0%, 8)

Arizona (1.7%, 31)

Faceoff%

Chicago (49.0%, 21)

Arizona (54.9%, 2)

Avg. height/weight

Chicago

6’1” 195lbs

Arizona

6’1” 196lbs

PROJECTED LINES/PAIRINGS:

Chicago

DeBrincat – Toews – Kahun

Saad – Schmaltz – Kane

Kunitz – Anisimov – Hayden

Kruger – Johnson – Kampf

Keith – Jokiharju

Gustafsson – Seabrook

Manning – Rutta

Arizona

Panik – Stepan – Keller

Perlini – Strome – Fischer

Grabner – Richardson – Hinostroza

Crouse – Cousins – Archibald

Ekmann-Larsson – Demers

Goligoski – Hjalmarsson

Connauton – Oesterle

Analysis:

If there is a team for the Chicago Blackhawks to feast on at this pint in time, it is the Arizona Coyotes.  The Coyotes have potted a measly three goals in five games, while the Blackhawks have averaged surrendering 34.6 shots per game.

Is this the game the Blackhawks finally give up less than three goals, or the game that the Coyotes finally break their slump?

Arizona’s inept offense should allow Corey Crawford, making his first start since December, a chance to get comfortable in net. Crawford’s presence behind a shaky defense could be a breath of fresh air. However, ten months without game activity can be difficult for any player, especially a netminder.

Joel Quenneville teased healthy scratching a struggling Brandon Saad at practice on Tuesday, but it looks like this was all a motivational tactic.

Antti Raanta starts in goal for the Coyotes. The 29-year old Raanta was part of the 2015 Stanley Cup team in Chicago.

Comment below in our live game thread tonight!

And look for the internet’s most robust recap of the game later tonight or early tomorrow on the-rink.com. 

The post Preview/Game Thread: Coyotes at Blackhawks appeared first on The Rink.

7:30pm Central

United Center

TV/Radio: NBCSCH, FS-MW/WGN

Goalies:

Chicago

Cam Ward (.867 save%, 4.41 GAA)

St. Louis

Jake Allen (.854 save%, 4.28 GAA)

Team statistics:

Power play

Chicago (6.7%)

St. Louis (25.0%)

Penalty kill

Chicago (69.2%)

St. Louis (90.0%)

Shots for/against per game

Chicago (33.5, 33.8)

St. Louis (34.7, 29.7)

Shooting%

Chicago (13.4%)

St. Louis (9.6%)

Faceoff%

Chicago (48.6%)

St. Louis (53.5%)

Avg. height/weight:

Chicago:

6’1”, 195

St. Louis

6’1” 204

Lineups:

Chicago

Debrincat – Toews – Kahun

Fortin – Schmaltz – Kane

Kunitz – Anisimov – Hayden

Kampf – Kruger – Saad

Keith – Jokiharju

Gustafsson – Seabrook

Manning – Davidson

St. Louis:

Maroon – O’Reilly – Tarasenko

Schwartz – Schenn – Perron

Steen – Bozak – Kyrou

Barbashev – Thomas – Blais

Edmundson – Pietrangelo

Bouwmeester – Parayko

Jerabek – Bortuzzo

Analysis:

Coming off a late game collapse in Minnesota, the Chicago Blackhawks look to bounce back against the St. Louis Blues at the United Center tonight. Last week, the Blackhawks beat the Blues 4-3 on the road.

The top line of Jonathan Toews, Alex DeBrincat and Dominik Kahun appear to be the only line clicking on all cylinders. All three, along with Patrick Kane, need to stay hot as the bottom lines try to bring scoring balance to the lineup.

Duncan Keith is celebrating his 1000th game in a Blackhawks’ uniform. Keith, paired with rookie Henri Jokiharju, has pushed possession well from the backend. However, too many prime scoring chances against continue to haunt the defensive unit.

For the fifth straight game, Cam Ward will start between the pipes, which begs the question, how much faith does the coaching staff have in Anton Forsberg? Although another theory is that the team is hesitant either to play Forsberg through a hand injury, or put him on waivers and potentially lose him to another club. Jake Allen looks to avenge his loss from last week for the Blues.

Comment below in our live game thread tonight!

And look for the internet’s most robust recap of the game later tonight or early tomorrow on the-rink.com. 

The post Preview/Game Thread: Blues at Blackhawks appeared first on The Rink.