Feature game of the night: Regina Pats @ Kelowna Rockets 7:05 PM PST
Tonight’s feature game showcases two teams still trying to find their identity in the league this season in their only meeting of 2018-19. The Pats (8-15-0-0) have had a tough go on this BC Division road swing, but the end is in sight as they only have two more games left on the road trip after tonight’s contest against the Rockets (9-13-1-0).
The Pats took down the Kamloops Blazers last night, but that’s been really the only bright spot for them lately as they’ve gone 1-3-0-0 in their last four contests. Regina added Sebastien Streu from Kootenay on the road trip and so far he’s been a nice addition, putting up three points in his first four games.
The changing of the tides may be underway for the team on the shores of Okanagan Lake, as since Adam Foote has come in as head coach, the team has gone 5-3-1-0 in nine games. Compared to 4-10-0-0 before the NHL legend arrived behind the bench. The big question for Rockets’ fans is will he be able to keep the spaceship climbing or will it plummet back to earth? Only time will tell.
Who to watch:
In his first season of NHL Draft eligibility, Nolan Foote has been making quite the impression among scouts around the rinks in the WHL. There’s no question he’s a winger with a lot of upside, Foote has put up 20 points in 21 games so far this season, already half of his point total from last season in a third of the games. If you’re planning on watching this contest tonight, in person or through the website, make sure to keep your eye on #29.
Leading Scorers:
Nick Henry- REG- (12G, 23A) Six points in his last three games
Kyle Topping- KEL- (9G, 19A) Only three points in his last five
Who’s likely strapping on the pads?
Dean McNabb- REG- (5.375 GAA, .832 SV%) Has allowed 10 goals in his last two starts
Roman Basran- KEL- (3.225 GAA, .895 SV%) Posted a .963 SV% vs. EDM last game
Fanshaw’s Fast Facts:
- Kelowna is 3-6-0-0 at Prospera Place this season
- Both teams coming off wins
- Kelowna’s first game at home after eight straight on the road
Other Games around the WHL:
Edmonton Oil Kings (13-8-1-2) @ Brandon Wheat Kings (10-5-3-3)
- Edmonton is 7-1-1-1 over their last ten
Lethbridge Hurricanes (9-8-2-2) @ Saskatoon Blades (14-7-2-0)
- Lethbridge has 4 skaters with 20 points or more on the season (Cozens, Ross, Bellerive, Addison)
Calgary Hitmen (8-13-2-0) @ Portland Winterhawks (13-7-0-2)
- James Malm (CGY) has 9 points in 8 games since joining the Hitmen
Vancouver Giants (14-6-2-0) @ Seattle Thunderbirds (8-9-3-0)
- Giants enter play trying to snap a two game losing skid
