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B.C. Division, Game Recap

Special night for Sim as Giants shutout Royals

Written by Adam Kierszenblat on

 

Drew Sim collected his first career point to go along with his first career shutout as the Giants sunk the Royals 4-0. The Giants are now 3-0 versus the Royals and have scored four goals in each game this season. The Giants now have six wins on the season and are two points behind Kamloops for the division lead.

Call him shutout Sim

Vancouver Giants rookie goaltender Drew Sim recorded his first career shutout after stopping all 16 Victoria Royals shots. He also registered his first career assists and powerplay point on Alex Kannok Leipert’s 3-0 goal late in the second period. The shutout also makes the Giants the only team in the WHL to have multiple goaltenders with shutouts this season.

Sim was able to control the game well tonight. He stayed square to the shooter and was able to control the crease well. Sim is improving game by game. His positioning is getting better and so is his rebound control. If Sim continues this development arc, the Giants should have some special goaltending for the next few seasons.

A defensive gem

The defense stepped up big tonight not just in their own zone, but on the scoresheet as well. Two goals and three assists came from the back end tonight led by captain Alex Kannok Leipert who registered a Gordie Howe Hat trick. Mazden Leslie also continued his phenomenal rookie season as he potted his fifth goal of the season along with five shots on goal.

The Giants are playing great defensively this season which has led to four shutouts in nine games. Everyone is buying into Keith McCambridge’s defensive style, and it is showing early on this season. The defense is able to get the puck up to the forwards quickly which is leading to increased scoring opportunities. This group is just hitting their stride defensively and will have to be on their game as they face Kamloops next.

Three best Giants of the evening

Drew Sim

Sim played fantastic tonight as he recorded his first career shutout. Although he only faced 16 shots, he controlled the game well and limited second-chance opportunities. Sim now has two wins in three games played against Victoria this season. Look for Sim to get more opportunities down the stretch if he continues to play like he did tonight.

Drew Sim Postgame:

“It was great. The guys in front of me were battling, blocking shots, and really keeping them out of the high danger areas. They had my back and I had theirs. The way we came out tonight was huge. I think we are making a turn and headed in the right direction. (The assist) does not come much easier than that. Put it on Sourds (Sourdif) stick behind the net and he goes down and gives it to Leips (Kannok Leipert) for the goal. That one felt good too.”

Alex Kannok Leipert

The captain is leading by example this season. His fight early in the game set the tone for the team in what was a scrappy affair against the Royals. Kannok Leipert has been impressive all season as he is relied upon in every situation. From powerplay to the penalty kill, it seems that every time Kannok Leipert is on the ice, there is a scoring chance. Another solid game for the captain.

Justin Sourdif

On top of scoring what could be the highlight of the night in the WHL, Sourdif’s drove the offense tonight. His five shots on goal were tied for the team lead tonight but what is more impressive is his confidence with the puck. Whenever the puck is on his stick, a great offensive scoring chance happens. His combination of speed and size has allowed him to take over his game which is a big reason why he is tied for the Giant’s point lead with 16 this season.

Next Game:

The Giants will face the division-leading Blazers on Sunday night starting at 6 pm PST. With the Canucks schedule unconfirmed, it is unsure if the game will be streamed online or available via radio. The season series is tied 1-1 with the Giants taking the last game 4-0.