Kings Court with Corey Graham...Updates on the Edmonton Oil Kings and WHL news

GDB #64 @ Kootenay

2012-02-29T13:02:00.000-07:00

Oil Kings (63 41-15-3-4) vs Ice (63 34-21-4-4)

The Oil Kings hit the road for a single game in Cranbrook when they face the defending WHL Champion Kootenay Ice tonight. The Kings have won back to back games after knocking off the Lethbridge Hurricanes on Sunday afternoon. They roared out to a 3-0 lead in the first ten and a half minutes, with a pair of Mitch Moroz goals and a Tyler Maxwell powerplay marker. It seemed the Kings then backed off a bit, and the Hurricanes found their legs to keep it tight the rest of the way until Stephane Legault sealed it with an empty netter.

The Ice are back home after a four game road trip out east. They picked up bookend wins in Brandon and Prince Albert. They fell behind the Raiders 3-1 in the the first, but Max Reinhart led the rally recording a pair of goals and two assists. Reinhart tied the game on a penalty shot in the third period and set up his brother Sam for the winner 19 seconds into overtime.

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

Season Series: Edmonton has had success against the Ice this year, winning all four previous matchups. They knocked off the Ice 2-1 in a shootout in their first game and followed that up with 6-1, 3-2 (overtime) and 3-1 victories. The teams play one final time in the regular season on March 14 in Cranbrook.

Up Next: The Oil Kings return home for three games, beginning on Saturday when they host the Swift Current Broncos. Saskatoon visits Sunday, the Moose Jaw Warriors are in town on Wednesday for a showdown for top spot in the Eastern Conference. The Ice open a two game home stand tonight. They face Calgary on Saturday.

Stretch Drive: The Kings have eight games left after tonight. Four at home (Swift Current, Saskatoon, Moose Jaw, Red Deer), and four on the road (Red Deer, Kootenay, Medicine Hat, Red Deer). The Kings have clinched a playoff spot and lead the Eastern Conference by four points over Moose Jaw. They lead the Central Division by eight points over Medicine Hat.

The Ice have eight games left after tonight. Four at home (Calgary, Medicine Hat, Edmonton, Calgary), and four on the road (Swift Current, Medicine Hat, Spokane, Calgary). The Ice are fifth in the Eastern Conference with 76 points. They trail Calgary by one point for 4th, and lead Saskatoon by two for 5th.

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (39)
KTN- Max Reinhart, Sam Reinhart (26)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (95)
KTN- Max Reinhart (70)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (35)
KTN- Nathan Lieuwen (25)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (129)
KTN- Jesse Ismond (93)

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

Drafted:

EDM- Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

KTY- Max Reinhart- Flames (3rd, 2010), Joey Leach- Flames (3rd, 2010), Drew Czerwonka- Oilers (6th, 2010), Nathan Lieuwen- Sabres (6th, 2011).

Injury Report:

EDM: #22, Ryan Dech, Lower body, day to day

KTY: #6, Luke Paulsen, Upper body, day to day
#19, Drew Czerwonka, Lower body, 3-5 weeks

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is 8th in league scoring (95), Dylan Wruck is tied in 14th (75). Defenceman Martin Gernat is 8th in rookie scoring (47) and he is 8th in scoring amongst defencemen. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 3rd in GAA (2.51), and is tied for 2nd in wins (35). For Kootenay, Sam Reinhart is 3rd in rookie scoring (57). Joey Leach is tied for 18th in scoring amongst defencemen (38). Nathan Lieuwen leads the WHL in GAA (2.39), he is third in save percentage (.918). This is the fifth of six meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 on the Team 1260.

Weekly Review #20

2012-02-29T12:12:00.001-07:00

Review: The Oil Kings picked up four of six points last week. They opened with a disapponting loss to the Kelowna Rockets, 6-4 at Rexall Place. For the third straight game the Kings pulled their goalie in the loss. They rallied back for a win, 4-1 over Calgary in a very tight game. They scored a pair of empty netters in the victory. The week wrapped up with an uneven 4-1 win over Lethbridge on Sunday afternoon. The biggest news over the week was the return of Travis Ewanyk to the lineup. Ewanyk had missed the entire season after undergoing off season shoulder surgery.

Wednesday Feb. 22- Loss 6-4 vs Kelowna

Friday Feb. 24- Win 4-1 @ Calgary

Sunday Feb. 26- Win 4-1 vs Lethbridge

Upcoming: The Kings play three games this week, kicking off Wednesday night in Cranbrook when they face the Kootenay Ice. Swift Current visits Edmonton on Saturday night, and Saskatoon is in town on Sunday evening.

Leaders: Goals: Michael St. Croix (39)

Assists: St. Croix (56)

Points: St. Croix (95)

PIMS: Keegan Lowe (129)

Plus/Minus: St. Croix (+36)

Wins: Laurent Brossoit (35)

Firsts: Game- Martin Gernat, Ashton Sautner, Cole Benson @ Red Deer, Sept 25. Tristan Jarry @ Saskatoon, Oct 8. Cody Corbett @ Brandon Oct 29, Brandon Baddock @ Lethbridge Nov. 19, Henrik Samuelsson @ Medicine Hat Jan. 12.

Goal- Gernat @ Red Deer, Sept 25,Curtis Lazar vs Medicine Hat Sept 30 (first regular season goal, scored in playoffs Mar 31, 2011), Mitch Moroz @ Swift Current Oct. 9, Ashton Sautner vs Portland Oct 21, Cody Corbett @ Victoria Nov. 8, Cole Benson vs Prince Albert Nov. 18, Henrik Samuelsson vs Kootenay Jan. 14, Tristan Sieban @ Prince Albert Jan 21.

Point- Gernat, Sautner @ Red Deer Sept 25, Tristan Sieben @ Medicine Hat Oct 1, Laurent Brossoit vs Regina Oct. 14, Corbett @ Victoria Nov 8, Benson, Mason Geertsen vs Prince Albert Nov 18, Henrik Samuelsson @ Medicine Hat, Jan 12.

Win- Tristan Jarry Oct 26 vs Everett.

Streaks: Martin Gernat three games (0-3-3), TJ Foster two games (1-1-2)

Notes: The Kings head into the week leading the Eastern Conference with 89 points through 63 games, four points more than the Moose Jaw Warriors. Michael St. Croix entered the week 8th in WHL scoring with 95 points in 63 games. Dylan Wruck is tied for 14th in league scoring with 75 points in 60 games. The Oil Kings have the second ranked power play and third ranked penalty kill heading into the week.

Drafted: Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

Schedule:

Tuesday-

Wednesday- @ Kootenay Ice, Cranbrook RecPlex, 7pm

Thursday-

Friday-

Saturday- vs Swift Current Broncos, Rexall Place, 7pm

Sunday- vs Saskatoon Blades, Rexall Place, 6pm

Monday-

Top Ten #20

2012-02-29T11:59:00.000-07:00

This is a poll of several Team 1260 members who follow the WHL closely and is compiled each Monday of the WHL season.

GDB #61 vs Kelowna

2012-02-22T13:31:00.002-07:00

Oil Kings (60 39-14-3-4) vs Rockets (60 25-27-3-5)

The Oil Kings wrap up a quick two game home stand tonight when they face the Kelowna Rockets for the second time in a week. The Kings are coming off a thrilling 5-4 shoot out win over the Medicine Hat Tigers on Monday afternoon. They fell down 3-0 midway through the first period, but chipped away to tie it with just over five minutes left in the game. Emerson Etem put the Tigers ahead with 2:41 left. Dylan Wruck tied the game again, with his 20th of the season with 37 seconds left. Tyler Maxwell and Martin Gernat scored in the shoot out to secure the two points. Tristan Jarry picked up his sixth win of the year.

The Rockets are coming off a 4-3 shoot out win over the Red Deer Rebels on Saturday night. After falling behind 2-0, the Rockets rallied to lead 3-2, five minutes into the third period. Mat Dumba tied it for Red Deer with 32 seconds left, but Damon Severson ended a seven round shoot out for the win.

Photo: Wayne Moore- Castanet

Season Series: This is the third and final meeting between the clubs this year. The Rockets took the first in a very tight 2-1 shoot out win in November. Zach Franko ended an eight round shoot out, Kristians Pelss and Colton Sissons traded first period goals. Laurent Brossoit and Jordan Cooke took over after that in between the pipes. The Oil Kings took the return matchup 6-3 last week in Kelowna. They rallied from a 2-0 first period deficiet, scoring five times in the second to cruise to the victory.

Up Next: The Oil Kings hit the road for their final regular season matchup with the Calgary Hitmen on Friday night. The Rocket are beginning a five game road trip here tonight, they are in Lethbridge on Friday night.

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (38)
KEL- Colton Sissons (26)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (92)
KEL- Shane McColgan (56)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (33)
KEL- Adam Brown (19)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (119)
KEL- Brett Lyon (126)

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

Drafted:

EDM- Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

KEL- Brett Bulmer- Minnesota Wild (2nd , 2010), Shane McColgan- Rangers (5th, 2011).

Injury Report:

EDM: #21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, day to day
#22, Ryan Dech, Lower body, 2 weeks

KEL: #5, Mitchell Chapman, Upper Body, 1 week
#10, Filip Vasko, Lower body, 2 weeks
#15, Colton Sissons, Upper body, 1 month+
#16, Spencer Main, Upper body, 1 month+

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is tied for 5th in league scoring (92), Dylan Wruck is tied in 12th (75). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied in 8th in rookie scoring (44) and he tied in 9th in scoring amongst defencemen. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 4th in GAA (2.56), and is 3rd in wins (33). For Kelowna, Carter Rigby is tied for 15th in rookie scoring (30). This is the second of three meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 on the Team 1260.

Road Trip Photo Blog #4

2012-02-22T13:00:00.002-07:00


The Olympic Torch in Vancouver looking from the water towards downtown.

A closer look at the Torch, the arms are made from panes of glass.

The hallway outside of the Giants room in Vancouver

A seaplane taking off in Vancouver

Looking into the visitor's room in Vancouver

The Oil Kings warming up at the Pacific Coliseum

View from broadcast booth in Kelowna. Great spot, but, in behind the cameras.

Weekly Review #19

2012-02-22T12:45:00.000-07:00

Review: The Oil Kings continued their season long 11 day road trip last week with stops in Kamloops, Kelowna, and Vancouver. They played a solid 40 minutes in Kamloops, building up a 2-0 lead after the second period. The Blazers rallied for three third period goals, including the winner with less than a minute on the clock for the victory. The Kings bounced back the next night coming from behind to beat the Rockets, 6-3. The trip closed with a 6-2 loss in Vancouver. Again a solid 40 minutes was for not, as the wheels came off in the third period. Edmonton would get back on the winning side when they returned home, downing the Tigers 5-4 in a shootout. They fell behind 3-0 in the first but fought back to tie it twice, including Dylan Wruck's 20th of the season with 37 seconds left.

Tuesday Feb. 14- Loss 3-2 @ Kamloops
Wednesday Feb. 15- Win 6-3 @ Kelowna
Friday Feb. 17- Loss 6-2 @ Vancouver
Monday Feb. 20- Win 5-4 SO vs Medicine Hat

Upcoming: The stretch drives continues with three games this week. They host the Kelowna Rockets in a rematch on Wednesday night, play their final game of the season in Calgary on Friday, and finish their season series with Lethbridge on Sunday afternoon.

Leaders: Goals: Michael St. Croix (38)

Assists: Dylan Wruck (55)

Points: St. Croix (92)

PIMS: Keegan Lowe (119)

Plus/Minus: St. Croix (+34)

Wins: Laurent Brossoit (33)

Firsts: Game- Martin Gernat, Ashton Sautner, Cole Benson @ Red Deer, Sept 25. Tristan Jarry @ Saskatoon, Oct 8. Cody Corbett @ Brandon Oct 29, Brandon Baddock @ Lethbridge Nov. 19, Henrik Samuelsson @ Medicine Hat Jan. 12.

Goal- Gernat @ Red Deer, Sept 25,Curtis Lazar vs Medicine Hat Sept 30 (first regular season goal, scored in playoffs Mar 31, 2011), Mitch Moroz @ Swift Current Oct. 9, Ashton Sautner vs Portland Oct 21, Cody Corbett @ Victoria Nov. 8, Cole Benson vs Prince Albert Nov. 18, Henrik Samuelsson vs Kootenay Jan. 14, Tristan Sieban @ Prince Albert Jan 21.

Point- Gernat, Sautner @ Red Deer Sept 25, Tristan Sieben @ Medicine Hat Oct 1, Laurent Brossoit vs Regina Oct. 14, Corbett @ Victoria Nov 8, Benson, Mason Geertsen vs Prince Albert Nov 18, Henrik Samuelsson @ Medicine Hat, Jan 12.

Win- Tristan Jarry Oct 26 vs Everett.

Streaks: Michael St. Croix three games (2-3-5), Tyler Maxwell three games (3-2-5)

Notes: The Kings head into the week leading the Eastern Conference with 85 points through 60 games, four points more than the Moose Jaw Warriors. Michael St. Croix entered the week tied for 5th in WHL scoring with 92 points in 60 games. Dylan Wruck is tied for 12th in league scoring with 75 points in 60 games. The Oil Kings have the second ranked power play and third ranked penalty kill heading into the week.

Drafted: Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

Schedule:

Tuesday-

Wednesday- vs Kelowna Rockets, Rexall Place, 7pm

Thursday- Travel Day

Friday- @ Calgary Hitmen, Scotiabank Saddledome, 7pm

Saturday-

Sunday- vs Lethbridge Hurricanes, Rexall Place, 2pm

Monday- vs

Top Ten #19

2012-02-22T12:25:00.001-07:00

This is a poll of several Team 1260 members who follow the WHL closely and is compiled each Monday of the WHL season.

GDB # 58 @ Kelowna

2012-02-15T12:54:00.001-07:00

Oil Kings (57 37-13-3-4) vs Rockets (57 24-25-3-5)

The Oil Kings play game five of their six game road trip tonight against the Rockets. The Kings are coming off a very disappointing 3-2 loss last night in Kamloops. They controlled the pace for most of the first 40 minutes and had a 2-0 lead heading into the third period. The wheels came off, as the Oil Kings looked tired, and the Blazers took advantage scoring three times. Matt Needham capped the comeback with a minute to go in regulation as he banged home a rebound behind Laurent Brossoit. It was a great crowd in Kamloops, just over 5000 took in the showdown of the top two teams in the league, and they went home happy.

Kelowna also played last night losing 4-3 in a shootout in Seattle. They were down 3-1 after the first period but Zach Franko and Myles Bell, on a penalty shot with less than a minute left in regulation, tied it to force overtime. The Rockets are now winless in their last four games, but have two loser points in that stretch.

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

Season Series: This is the second of three meetings between the clubs this year. The Rockets took the first in a very tight 2-1 shoot out win in November. Zach Franko ended an eight round shoot out, Kristians Pelss and Colton Sissons traded first period goals. Laurent Brossoit and Jordan Cooke took over after that in between the pipes. The teams hook up again in Edmonton a week from tonight.

Up Next: The Oil Kings head to Vancouver to wrap up the trip when they face the Giants for the third time this season. The Rockets are opening up a three game homestand, they host Calgary on Friday night.

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (36)
KEL- Colton Sissons (26)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (87)
KEL- Shane McColgan (56)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (32)
KEL- Adam Brown (18)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (112)
KEL- Mitch Chapman (101)

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

Injury Report:

EDM: #21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, day to day
#22, Ryan Dech, Lower body, week to week

KEL: #5, Mitchell Chapman, Upper Body, 1-2 weeks
#10, Filip Vasko, Lower body, 3 weeks
#14, Cody Chikie, Upper body, day to day
#15, Colton Sissons, Upper body, 1 month+
#16, Spencer Main, Upper body, 1 month+
#27, Jessey Astles, Upper body, day to day

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is 6th in league scoring (87), Dylan Wruck is 14th (71). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied in 8th in rookie scoring (41) and he tied in 10th in scoring amongst defencemen. He also leads the league at +36. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 3rd in GAA (2.44), and is 3rd in wins (32). For Kelowna, Carter Rigby is 15th in rookie scoring (30). This is the second of three meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 7:45, the puck drops at 8:00 MT on the Team 1260.

WHL Top Ten #18

2012-02-14T13:28:00.000-07:00

This is a poll of several Team 1260 members who follow the WHL closely and is compiled each Monday of the WHL season.

Weekly Review #18

2012-02-14T12:59:00.001-07:00

Review: It was a busy week for the Oil Kings as they kicked off their longest road trip of the season. Things started at home with a 3-1 win over Kootenay. They began the roadie in Calgary, downing the Hitmen 9-5. Both Tyler Maxwell and TJ Foster recorded hat tricks. Then they split a weekend series in PG, losing 5-4 in OT on Friday before Laurnet Brossoit posted his third shut out of the season in a 5-0 win. Rhett Rachinski netted his first career hat trick in the victory.

Tuesday Feb. 7- Win 3-1 vs Kootenay
Wednesday Feb. 8- Win 9-5 @ Calgary
Friday Feb. 10- Loss 5-4 OT @ Prince George
Saturday Feb. 11- Win 5-0 @ Prince George

Upcoming: The Kings continue their BC trip with stops in Kamloops, Kelowna and Vancouver. They return home on holiday Monday afternoon, facing the Medicine Hat Tigers at 2pm.

Leaders: Goals: Michael St. Croix (36)

Assists: Dylan Wruck (52)

Points: St. Croix (87)

PIMS: Keegan Lowe (110)

Plus/Minus: Martin Gernat (+37)

Wins: Laurent Brossoit (32)

Firsts: Game- Martin Gernat, Ashton Sautner, Cole Benson @ Red Deer, Sept 25. Tristan Jarry @ Saskatoon, Oct 8. Cody Corbett @ Brandon Oct 29, Brandon Baddock @ Lethbridge Nov. 19, Henrik Samuelsson @ Medicine Hat Jan. 12.

Goal- Gernat @ Red Deer, Sept 25,Curtis Lazar vs Medicine Hat Sept 30 (first regular season goal, scored in playoffs Mar 31, 2011), Mitch Moroz @ Swift Current Oct. 9, Ashton Sautner vs Portland Oct 21, Cody Corbett @ Victoria Nov. 8, Cole Benson vs Prince Albert Nov. 18, Henrik Samuelsson vs Kootenay Jan. 14, Tristan Sieban @ Prince Albert Jan 21.

Point- Gernat, Sautner @ Red Deer Sept 25, Tristan Sieben @ Medicine Hat Oct 1, Laurent Brossoit vs Regina Oct. 14, Corbett @ Victoria Nov 8, Benson, Mason Geertsen vs Prince Albert Nov 18, Henrik Samuelsson @ Medicine Hat, Jan 12.

Win- Tristan Jarry Oct 26 vs Everett.

Streaks: Rhett Rachinski goals in four straight (6-0-6), points 5 straight (6-1-7)

Notes: The Kings head into the week leading the Eastern Conference with 81 points through 56 games, five points more than the Moose Jaw Warriors. Michael St. Croix entered the week 5th in WHL scoring with 87 points in 56 games. Dylan Wruck is 13th in league scoring with 71 points in 56 games. The Oil Kings have both the second ranked power play and penalty kill heading into the week.

Drafted: Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

Schedule:

Tuesday- @ Kamloops Blazers, Interior Savings Centre, 8pm MT

Wednesday- @ Kelowna Rockets, Prospera Place, 8pm MT

Thursday- Travel Day

Friday- @ Vancouver Giants, Pacific Coliseum, 8pm MT

Saturday-

Sunday-

Monday- vs Medicine Hat Tigers, Rexall Place, 2pm

GDB #57 @ Kamloops

2012-02-14T12:35:00.001-07:00

Oil Kings (56 37-12-3-4) vs Blazers (56 40-12-1-3)

The top two teams in the WHL meet tonight in Kamloops as the Oil Kings visit the Blazers. Edmonton is coming off a 5-0 shut out victory in Prince George. Rhett Rachinski led the way with his first WHL hat-trick. Keegan Lowe was plus five with three assists. Laurent Brossoit made 24 saves for his third shut out of the season. The Kings now have points in five straight games, including four victories. They lead the Eastern Conference with 81 points.

Kamloops has won four in a row, including back to back one goal victories over the Kelowna Rockets over the weekend. The Blazers are the top team in the entire WHL with 84 points and sit in third in the country in the CHL Top Ten. The Blazers feature a pair of former Oil Kings, goaltender Cam Lanigan and defender Marek Hrbas.

Season Series: This is the second of two meetings this season. Kamloops dominated the earlier matchup, winning 5-2. It was the end of a road trip for Edmonton, and their fourth game in five nights, and Kamloops took full advantage outworking Edmonton and controlling the play.

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

Up Next: The Oil Kings are right back at it tomorrow night, facing the Kelowna Rockets. The Rockets are in Seattle on Tuesday. Edmonton wraps up their road trip Friday in Vancouver. Tonight is game one of a four game home stand for Kamloops, they face Red Deer on Friday night.

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (36)
KAM- Brendan Ranford (32)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (87)
KAM- Ranford (72)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (32)
KAM- Cole Cheveldave (28)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (110)
KAM- JC Lipon (78)

Injury Report:

EDM: #21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, week to week
#22, Ryan Dech, Lower body, 1 month

KAM: #17, Jordan DePape, Upper body, 1 month
#34, JC Lipon, Upper body, day to day

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is tied for 5th in league scoring (87), Dylan Wruck is 13th (71). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied in 8th in rookie scoring (41) and he tied in 9th in scoring amongst defencemen. He also leads the league at +37. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 3rd in GAA (2.42), and is 3rd in wins (32). For Kamloops, Brendan Ranford is tied for 10th in league scoring, Colin Smith is tied in 16th. Tim Bozon is tied for the lead in rookie scoring (56). Austin Madaisky is 8th in defencemen scoring (42). Cole Cheveldave if 4th in both GAA (2.49) and wins (28). This is the second and final meeting between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 7:45, the puck drops at 8:00 MT on the Team 1260.

Road Trip Photo Blog #3

2012-02-13T19:01:00.000-07:00

The Oil Kings wrapped up their stay in Prince George, and have move on to Kelowna, which will be home base for a few days.

Another great WHL tradition, the 20 year olds, Rhett Rachinski, Jordan Peddle, and Tyler Maxwell 'sign out' in Prince George.

The Kelowna Rockets practice before boarding their bus to face the Thunderbirds in Seattle on Tuesday night.

Kelowna's Wall of Honour featuring former Captains Gavin McLeod and Ryan Cuthbert.

Couple of decent Rocket defencemen from 2002-03 WHL Championship team Shea Weber and Duncan Keith.

Tristan Jarry's goal pads.

Mark Pysyk's and Stephane Legault's stalls ready for practice.

Not an awful view from the hotel room.

Rogan Dean makes repairs during practice.

Solid afternoon stroll along the lake.

Road Trip Photo Blog #2

2012-02-11T15:07:00.002-07:00

The Oil Kings road trip through BC continues, here is another series of photos on a game day in Prince George.

Home for the next week or so...

Not a bad hotel room at all in Prince George.

Solid Saturday afternoon of 'prep'

Nice touch with Cougar Alumni banners throughout the CN Centre

Game jerseys out of the wash, awaiting some repairs.

Kings Equipment Assistant Les Fragle mends some holes in Cody Corbett's uniform.

Trying to make the Visitor's room feel more like Home.

More tradition, outside of the Cougar dressing room. Alums Dana Tyrell and Blair Betts are featured.

Always more skates to sharpen for Equipment Manager Rogan Dean.

GDB #56 @ Prince George

2012-02-11T14:29:00.001-07:00

Oil Kings (55 36-12-3-4) vs Cougars (53 17-34-0-2)

The Kings and Cougars are right back it again tonight in Prince George. The Cougars came out on top last night in a thrilling 5-4 overtime finish. PG had a one nothing lead after 20 minutes, goaltender Drew Owsley was fantastic in the early going until Dylan Wruck tied it in the second. The Kings would open up a 3-1 lead early in the third with a pair of power play goals by Michael St. Croix and Rhett Rachinski. The Cats would claw back to tie it briefly, before St. Croix put the Kings ahead again. Campbell Elynuik would be the hero in OT.

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

The Kings will need a better effort tonight to earn two point against the upstart Cougars. Prince George is the lowest scoring team in the WHL, but they never stop working and that can keep them in games. Drew Owsley has been good for the Cougars as well stopping 98 of 107 shots in the two games against Edmonton.

Season Series: This is the third and final meeting between the clubs this year. Edmonton is 1-0-1-0 in the two matchups.

Up Next: The Oil Kings head for Kelowna tomorrow morning, and will base out of the city for a few days. They face the top team in the WHL, the Kamloops Blazers on Tuesday, before playing the Rockets on Wednesday. The Cougars wrap up a five game homestand on Wednesday against the Red Deer Rebels.

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (36)
PG- Spencer Asuchak (14)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (87)
PG- Troy Bourke (37)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (31)
PG- Drew Owsley (16)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (110)
PG- Campbell Elynuik (122)

Drafted:

EDM- Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

PG- Ricard Blidstrand- Philadelphia Flyers (7th, 2010).

Injury Report:

EDM: #21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, week to week
#22, Ryan Dech, Lower body, 1 month
#27 Curtis Lazar, Lower Body, TBD

PG: #2, Dan Gibb, Upper body, 1-2 weeks
#21, Shane Pilling, Upper body, day to day

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is tied for 3rd in league scoring (87), Dylan Wruck is tied in 10th (71). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied in 8th in rookie scoring (41) and he tied in 8th in scoring amongst defencemen. He also leads the league at +37. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 3rd in GAA (2.48), and is 3rd in wins (31). For Prince George, Alex Forsberg is tied in 11th in rookie scoring (31). The Oil Kings have scored a league high 239 goals, the Cougars a league low 119. This is the third of three meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 7:45, the puck drops at 8:00 MT on the Team 1260.

Road Trip Photo Blog

2012-02-10T14:58:00.000-07:00

As the Oil Kings continue their road trip, I plan on sharing some behind the scenes photos from the road. Instead of sending endless tweets of pics, I will do a series of blogs. Here is the first, a gameday in Prince George.

Dressing Board courtesy of Therapist Brian Cheeseman

Rhett Rachinski waits for his turn at pregame skate.

Coaches Steve Hamilton and Jesse Pearson running practice.

Equipment Manager Rogan Dean sharpens Tristan Jarry's skates

Shot from the bench during morning skate.

Laurent Brossoit takes a breather.

Steve Hamilton filling in for Derek Laxdal this weekend addresses the team on ice one last time before the game.

GDB #55 @ Prince George

2012-02-10T14:35:00.001-07:00

Oil Kings (54 36-12-2-4) vs Cougars (52 16-34-0-2)

The Kings continue their road trip tonight, opening up at two game set at the CN Centre in Prince George. They are coming off a bizarre 9-5 win in Calgary on Wednesday night. Both Tyler Maxwell and TJ Foster netted hat-tricks, while Tristan Sieban, Rhett Rachinski and Stephane Legault tallied a goal. Martin Gernat was plus four with a pair of assists. It was the third time in five meetings where the Oil Kings chased Calgary's starting netminder. With the win Edmonton closed to within two points of Kamloops for top spot in the entire WHL.

Tonight they face the team with the least amount of points in the league this season, the Prince George Cougars. The Cats haven't played since last weekend where they dropped a pair of home games to the Kelowna Rockets. They have lost eight of their last nine games. It does sound like they will have some good news this weekend though, as Alex Forsberg, Drew Owsley, Jarrett Fontaine and Caleb Belter could all return from injuries.

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

Season Series: This is the second of three meetings between the clubs this year. They meet again Saturday night as well. Edmonton took the first matchup 5-0 at Rexall Place last month. Laurent Brossoit earned his second shutout of the season making 26 saves. The Kings peppered Cougar netminder Drew Owlsey with 50 shots.

Up Next: Like previously mentioned these teams square off again tomorrow night wrapping up their season series. The Oil Kings then continue their road trip in Kamloops Tuesday. The Cougars welcome the Red Deer Rebels on Wednesday.

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (34)
PG- Spencer Asuchak (14)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (84)
PG- Troy Bourke (35)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (31)
PG- Drew Owsley (15)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (108)
PG- Campbell Elynuik (122)

Drafted:

EDM- Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

PG- Ricard Blidstrand- Philadelphia Flyers (7th, 2010).

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

Injury Report:
EDM: #21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, week to week
#22, Ryan Dech, Lower body, 1 month
#27 Curtis Lazar, Lower Body, TBD

PG: #2, Dan Gibb, Upper body, 1-2 weeks
#4, Linden Springer, Lower body, day to day
#6, Jesse Forsberg, Upper body, day to day
#17, Caleb Belter, Upper body, day to day
#21, Shane Pilling, Upper body, day to day
#27, Alex Forsberg, Lower body, day to day
#29, Reid Jackson, Illness day to day
#30, Drew Owsley, Lower body, day to day
#32, Jarret Fontaine, Upper body, week to wee

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is 5th in league scoring (84), Dylan Wruck is 12th (69). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied in 8th in rookie scoring (40) and he tied in 9th in scoring amongst defencemen. He also leads the league at +36. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 4th in GAA (2.48), and is 3rd in wins (31). Krisitans Pelss will serve the 3rd game of a three game suspension tonight. For Prince George, Alex Forsberg is 14th in rookie scoring (29). The Oil Kings have scored a league high 235 goals, the Cougars a league low 114. This is the second of three meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 7:45, the puck drops at 8:00 MT on the Team 1260.

GDB #54 @ Calgary

2012-02-08T13:40:00.000-07:00

Oil Kings (53 35-12-2-4) vs Hitmen (54 32-19-2-1)

The Kings kick off their season long six game road trip tonight against one of the hotter teams in the WHL, the Calgary Hitmen. Edmonton is looking to extend thier winning streak to three games after downing Kooetnay 3-1 at Rexall Place on Tuesday afternoon. The Kings received a goal and assist from both Michael St.Croix and Griffin Reinhart. Dylan Wruck added a pair of assists and shares the team lead with St. Croix at 48. St. Croix was plus one and assumes the league lead in that department at plus 34.

Calgary is coming off a loss last night in Medicine Hat 5-3. The Hitmen have shot up the standings in the new year, going 15-3 in their last 18 contests. They entered the third period tied at three with the Tigers, but allowed a pair of goals, including Emerson Etem's league leading 49th which sealed the deal.

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

Season Series: This is the fifth of six matchups this season and the second at the Saddledome. The Oil Kings took the first three matchups all in Edmonton by a combined score of 14-4. Calgary rebounded to take the last meeting of the clubs 4-3 in Calgary in January. The teams meet once more in Cowtown on February 24th.

Up Next: The Oil Kings hit the road after the game heading towards Prince George where they open up a two game set with the Cougars. Edmonton also visits Kamloops, Kelowna, and Vancouver on this swing through the BC division. This is the first game of a three game homestand for the Hitmen. They host the Warriors on Friday before facing the Ice on Sunday.

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (34)
CAL- Jimmy Bubnick (24)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (82)
CAL- Cody Sylvester (56)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (30)
CAL- Chris Driedger, Brandon Glover (16)

PIMS- EDM- Mitch Moroz (104)
CAL- Jaynen Rissling (101)

Drafted:

EDM- Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

CAL-Jimmy Bubnick- Atlanta Thrashers (6th, 2009, Free Agent), Brooks Macek- Detroit Red Wings (6th, 2010), Victor Rask- Hurricanes (2nd, 2011), Alex Roach signed free agent (Los Angeles Kings).

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

Injury Report:
EDM: #21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, week to week
#22, Ryan Dech, Lower body, 1 month
#27 Curtis Lazar, Lower Body, TBD

CAL: #9, Jaynen Rissling, Lower body, 2 weeks
#11, Brooks Macek, Lower body, day to day

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is 5th in league scoring (82), Dylan Wruck is tied in 12th (66). Defenceman Martin Gernat is 9th in rookie scoring (38) and he tied in 12th in scoring amongst defencemen. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 3rd in GAA (2.42), and is 3rd in wins (30). Krisitans Pelss will serve the 2nd game of a three game suspension tonight. For Calgary, Victor Rask is 5th in rookie scoring (41), Alex Gogolev is tied in 6th (40) Collin Bowman is 15th in scoring amongst defencemen (36). This is the fifth of six meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 on the Team 1260.

Top Ten #17

2012-02-06T22:17:00.001-07:00

This is a poll of several Team 1260 members who follow the WHL closely and is compiled each Monday of the WHL season.

Weekly Review #17

2012-02-06T17:28:00.000-07:00

Review: It was a quiet week for the Oil Kings. Edmonton defeated the Rebels 3-2 in the week's only game. Mitch Moroz led the way with a pair of goals, and Michael St. Croix tallied his 80th point of the season.

Friday Feb. 3- Win 3-2 vs Red Deer

Upcoming: Things pick up for the Oil Kings as they play four times this week. They wrap up their five game homestand on Tuesday morning with a tilt with the Kootenay Ice. Puck drops at 11:30 in the morning at Rexall Place. After that the Kings hit the road for a season long six game road trip. It kicks off in Calgary on Wednesday and included a pair of games in Prince George, and stops in Kamloops, Kelowna, and Vancouver.

Leaders: Goals: Michael St. Croix (33)

Assists: St. Croix (47)

Points: St. Croix (80)

PIMS: Mitch Moroz (104)

Plus/Minus: St. Croix (+33)

Wins: Laurent Brossoit (29)

Firsts: Game- Martin Gernat, Ashton Sautner, Cole Benson @ Red Deer, Sept 25. Tristan Jarry @ Saskatoon, Oct 8. Cody Corbett @ Brandon Oct 29, Brandon Baddock @ Lethbridge Nov. 19, Henrik Samuelsson @ Medicine Hat Jan. 12.

Goal- Gernat @ Red Deer, Sept 25,Curtis Lazar vs Medicine Hat Sept 30 (first regular season goal, scored in playoffs Mar 31, 2011), Mitch Moroz @ Swift Current Oct. 9, Ashton Sautner vs Portland Oct 21, Cody Corbett @ Victoria Nov. 8, Cole Benson vs Prince Albert Nov. 18, Henrik Samuelsson vs Kootenay Jan. 14, Tristan Sieban @ Prince Albert Jan 21.

Point- Gernat, Sautner @ Red Deer Sept 25, Tristan Sieben @ Medicine Hat Oct 1, Laurent Brossoit vs Regina Oct. 14, Corbett @ Victoria Nov 8, Benson, Mason Geertsen vs Prince Albert Nov 18, Henrik Samuelsson @ Medicine Hat, Jan 12.

Win- Tristan Jarry Oct 26 vs Everett.

Streaks: Martin Gernat 8 games (1-12-13)

Notes: The Kings head into the week leading the Eastern Conference with 74 points through 52 games, four points more than the Moose Jaw Warriors. Michael St. Croix entered the week tied for 6th in WHL scoring with 80 points in 52 games. Dylan Wruck is tied in 13th in league scoring with 64 points in 52 games. The Oil Kings have the second ranked power play in the WHL, they are third on the penalty kill..

Drafted: Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

Schedule:

Tuesday- vs Kootenay Ice, Rexall Place, 11:30am

Wednesday- @ Calgary Hitmen, Scotiabank Saddledome, 7pm

Thursday- Travel Day

Friday- @ Prince George Cougars, CN Centre, 8pm MT

Saturday- @ Prince George Cougars, CN Centre, 8pm MT

Sunday- Travel Day

Monday- Off Day

WHL Eastern Conference Trainer's Poll

2012-02-04T17:04:00.001-07:00

I have been asked by the Oil King trainers, Rogan Dean and Brian Cheeseman to publish the results of an informal poll of WHL Eastern Conference trainers. Basically it is a best of the east amongst the guys who put in the longest hours in junior hockey. The results are theirs, the comments are my own. Without further ado, here is the WHL Eastern conference Trainer's Poll.

Best Pre-Game Meal: St. Eugene's Resort, Cranbrook, BC. This was a very tight vote, with Chianti's in Saskatoon finishing a close second. Hard to argue with St. Eugene's they have an excellent spread for pregame.

Best Post-Game Meal: Tony Roma's, Red Deer, Alberta. Another close vote, but with lots of places suggested. No runaway winner in this one.

Best Hotel: Delta Bow Valley, Calgary, Alberta. A clear choice here, and a good one. Personally don't stay there often as the Oil Kings day trip Calgary usually, but did enjoy it when I had the chance. Any hotel with a full Starbucks in the lobby gets my vote. CanadInn in Brandon was second, I would imagine the convenience of a hotel attached to the rink would be a huge plus for trainers.

Best Warm Up Music: Rexall Place, Edmonton, Alberta. Only two rinks received multiple votes, Edmonton and Calgary.

Best Goal Song: Rebel Yell, Red Deer, Alberta. A wide variety of responses, but Red Deer edged out the other eastern rinks. Some nice responses including ``Is there really a good goal song on the road?"

Worst Goal Song: Barbra Streisand, Edmonton, Alberta. Not much doubt about this one, although there were some votes for others. I can tell you this has been a bone of contention from most who cover the Oil Kings on a daily basis. The highest scoring team has the worst goal song, too much Duck Sauce, I'm just glad we have headsets on in the booth.

Best Facilities for a Visiting Team: Tie- Moose Jaw and Edmonton. Another tight vote with a lot of different places receiving votes. Makes me think teams are treated pretty well everywhere in the league.

Best Media Room- Red Deer. No doubt about this one, the largest margin of victory here. Red Deer received over half of the vote. The other rooms that had votes were Calgary and Swift Current.

Best Watering Hole- Champ's, Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. The only establishment to receive more than one vote. I guess the trainers like to get out and explore the road towns a bit after a long day at the rink. Can't say I blame them! Best response was "Anywhere the GM pays!!"

Best Atmosphere in Rink: Medicine Hat Arena. The Arena narrowly edged out Red Deer and Calgary. Always fun with 4006 packed into the old barn, and I think other play-by-play guys would agree it has the best location for visiting broadcasters. Now if they could only get a screen in! The hot tub in Regina also received a vote.

Top Ten #16

2012-02-01T23:02:00.000-07:00

This is a poll of several Team 1260 members who follow the WHL closely and is compiled each Monday of the WHL season.

Weekly Review #16

2012-01-30T17:10:00.001-07:00

Review: It was an up and down week for the Edmonton Oil Kings. The week opened with the highly anticipated matchup with the Tri-City Americans at Rexall Place. In what was maybe the game of the year, the Amerks came away with a 5-4 OT victory on Brendan Shinniman's second of the game. Griffin Reinhart had a pair for the Kings. They followed that up with a convincing 6-2 win over the Brandon Wheat Kings on Friday night before falling 3-2 to the Giants on Saturday. It was only Edmonton's fourth regulation loss at home of the season. So far Vancouver has beaten the Kings twice this season, with a game to go in Vancouver later in February.

Last Week: Wednesday Jan. 25- Loss 5-4 OT vs Tri-City

Friday Jan. 27- Win 6-2 vs Brandon

Saturday Jan. 21- Loss 3-2 vs Vancouver

Upcoming: The Oil Kings have a very quiet week this week with just one game. They host the Red Deer Rebels on Friday night. Not all of the Kings have the week off as Griffin Reinhart will take part in the Top Prospects game in Kelowna on Wednesday.

Leaders: Goals: Michael St. Croix (32)

Assists: St. Croix (47)

Points: St. Croix (79)

PIMS: Mitch Moroz (104)

Plus/Minus: St. Croix (+32)

Wins: Laurent Brossoit (28)

Firsts: Game- Martin Gernat, Ashton Sautner, Cole Benson @ Red Deer, Sept 25. Tristan Jarry @ Saskatoon, Oct 8. Cody Corbett @ Brandon Oct 29, Brandon Baddock @ Lethbridge Nov. 19, Henrik Samuelsson @ Medicine Hat Jan. 12.

Goal- Gernat @ Red Deer, Sept 25,Curtis Lazar vs Medicine Hat Sept 30 (first regular season goal, scored in playoffs Mar 31, 2011), Mitch Moroz @ Swift Current Oct. 9, Ashton Sautner vs Portland Oct 21, Cody Corbett @ Victoria Nov. 8, Cole Benson vs Prince Albert Nov. 18, Henrik Samuelsson vs Kootenay Jan. 14, Tristan Sieban @ Prince Albert Jan 21.

Point- Gernat, Sautner @ Red Deer Sept 25, Tristan Sieben @ Medicine Hat Oct 1, Laurent Brossoit vs Regina Oct. 14, Corbett @ Victoria Nov 8, Benson, Mason Geertsen vs Prince Albert Nov 18, Henrik Samuelsson @ Medicine Hat, Jan 12.

Win- Tristan Jarry Oct 26 vs Everett.

Streaks: Martin Gernat 7 games (1-11-12), Henrik Samuelsson 5 games (3-5-8), Kristians Pelss 2 games (2-1-3), Curtis Lazar 2 games (2-0-2), Keegan Lowe 2 games (0-2-2).

Notes: The Kings head into the week leading the Eastern Conference with 72 points through 51 games, four points more than the Moose Jaw Warriors. Michael St. Croix entered the week tied for 3rd in WHL scoring with 79 points in 51 games. Dylan Wruck is tied in 11th in league scoring with 64 points in 51 games. The Oil Kings are ranked second in both the powerplay and penalty kill heading into the week.

Drafted: Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

Schedule:

Tuesday-

Wednesday-

Thursday-

Friday- vs Red Deer Rebels, Rexall Place, 7pm

Saturday-

Sunday-

Monday-

GDB #51 vs Vancouver

2012-01-28T15:18:00.003-07:00

Oil Kings (50 33-11-2-4) vs Giants (50 28-19-1-2)

The Oil Kings are right back at it tonight as they host the Vancouver Giants at Rexall Place. It is the lone appearance of the G-Men in Edmonton this season. The Kings are coming off a 6-2 win over the Brandon Wheat Kings last night. Henrik Samuelsson had a pair of goals and Michael St. Croix passed Dylan Wruck for the franchise record for points in a season as he registered his 79th point of the year. TJ Foster and Martin Gernat each had a pair of helpers as well.

The Giants were in action last night as well, being shut out in Calgary 2-0. Hitmen goaltender Chris Driedger stopped all 32 shots he faced, and Collin Bowman was the only man to beat Adam Morrison, Trevor Cheek iced it into an empty net for Calgary. Vancouver has lost back to back games after losing 4-2 in Red Deer on Wednesday. The Giants did get some good news last night as both Adam Morrison and World Junior star Brendan Gallagher made their return from injury. Tonight's matchup will also feature brothers going head to head as the Giants have recalled their 2011 first round bantam pick, Thomas Foster, the younger brother of Oil King vet TJ.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Season Series: This is the second of three meetings between the two clubs this year. Vancouver took the earlier matchup at the Pacific Coliseum, 4-1. It wasn't the best effort for the Oil Kings and they will look to bounce back with a better game. The Kings have traditionally struggled with the Giants picking up just one victory in nine all time matchups. The two teams meet up again in Vancouver in February.

Up Next: The Oil Kings are in the midst of a five game homestand. They will enjoy almost a complete week off before their next game with their biggest rival, the Red Deer Rebels, who visit on Friday night. Griffin Reinhart will play in the top prospects game in Kelowna on Wednesday. The Giants also have the coming week off, they wrap up a three game roadtrip here tonight and head west. They meet up with Kamloops on Friday on the west coast.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (32)
VAN- Brendan Gallagher (28)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (79)
VAN- Gallagher (55)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (28)
VAN-Adam Morrison (24)

PIMS- EDM- Mitch Moroz (99)
VAN- Wes Vannieuwenhuizen (90)

Drafted:

EDM- Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

VAN-Adam Morrison- Philadelphia (3rd, 2009), Brendan Gallagher- Montreal Canadiens (5th, 2010), David Musil- Oilers (2nd, 2011), Marek Tvrdon- Detroit Red Wings (4th, 2011).

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Injury Report:
EDM: #21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, week to week
#22, Ryan Dech, Lower body, 1 month+
#24, Mason Geertsen, Upper body, 2 weeks

VAN: #9, Dalton Sward, Upper body, 2 weeks

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is 3rd in league scoring (79), Dylan Wruck is 11th (64). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied in 8th in rookie scoring (35), Curtis Lazar is tied in 17th (24). Gernat is also tied in 12th in scoring amongst defencemen. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 4th in GAA (2.45), and is 3rd in wins (28). For Vancouver, Brendan Gallagher is 20th in scoring (55). Marek Tvrdon leads all rookies in scoring (50). Adam Morrison is 7th in GAA (2.56). This is the second of three meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 on the Team 1260.

GDB #50 vs Brandon

2012-01-27T12:46:00.000-07:00

Oil Kings (37 24-9-1-3) vs Wheat Kings (37 21-14-1-1)

The Oil Kings continue a five game homestand tonight as they welcome the Brandon Wheat Kings to town. Edmonton is coming off a 5-4 overtime loss at the hands of the Tri-City Americans, in what was an absolutely fantastic hockey game on Wednesday night. There were a combined 90 shots, 9 goals, and plenty of action between two of the top teams in the league. Griffin Reinhart, in his return to the lineup, led the way with 2 goals, while Henrik Samuelsson, and Dylan Wruck had a pair of assists each.

The Wheat Kings come in tonight in a battle for their playoff lives. Currently the Wheaties hold down the eighth spot in the Eastern Conference, leading Red Deer by four points, with the Rebels holding three games in hand. Last time out, Brandon was hammered 7-2 by the Calgary Hitmen. They do have starting netminder Corbin Boes back from injury, but look for Curtis Honey to get the start at Rexall tonight. The Wheat Kings have won just three of their last 13 outings. Tonight will feature a battle between two world junior teammates in Mark Pysyk of the Oil Kings and Mark Stone of the Wheaties.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Season Series: This is the final meeting between the clubs this season. Edmonton has won the previous two meetings by scores of 7-1 and 7-3. Brandon won the first matchup of the clubs 3-2 at Westman Place back in October. This is a potential first round playoff preview in the Eastern Conference.

Up Next: The Oil Kings are right back in action tomorrow night when the Vancouver Giants roll into Rexall Place. Both Brendan Gallagher and David Musil are expected to be in the lineup after rehabbing injuries. The Oil Kings are playing game two of a five game homestand tonight. Meanwhile Brandon has a huge matchup with the Rebels tomorrow night at the Centrium in Red Deer. That game will wrap up a four game road swing for Brandon.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (31)
BDN- Mark Stone (31)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (77)
BDN- Stone (76)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (27)
BDN- Brandon Anderson (12)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (97)
BDN- Ryley Miller (95)

Drafted:

EDM- Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

BDN- Kevin Sundher- Sabres (3rd, 2010),Michael Ferland- Flames (5th round, 2010), Mark Stone- Ottawa Senators (6th, 2010), Darian Dziurzynski- Phoenix Coyotes (5th, 2011), Brandon Anderson signed free agent- Washington Capitals.

Injury Report:
EDM: #21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, week to week
#22, Ryan Dech, Lower body, 1 month+
#24, Mason Geertsen, Upper body, 2 weeks

BDN: #7, Eric Roy, Upper body, day to day
#21, Tyrel Seaman, Upper body, 2 week

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is 3rd in league scoring (77), Dylan Wruck is 11th (64). Defenceman Martin Gernat is 9th in rookie scoring (33), Curtis Lazar is 19th (23). Gernat is also 14th in scoring amongst defencemen. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 4th in GAA (2.46), and is 3rd in wins (27). For Brandon, Mark Stoneis 4th in scoring (76), Kevin Sundher is 8th (70), Michael Ferland is tied in 13th (59). Alessio Bertaggia is tied in 5th in rookie scoring (39). Ryan Pulock is third in scoring amongst defencemen (43) and Eric Roy is tied in 4th (39). This is the fourth and final meeting between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 on the Team 1260.

GDB #49 vs Tri-City

2012-01-25T15:10:00.000-07:00

Oil Kings (48 32-11-1-4) vs Americans (46 34-11-0-1)

The Oil Kings, the sixth ranked team in the CHL, return home tonight to face the third ranked team, the Tri-City Americans. It will be the only regular season meeting between the clubs this season. Edmonton is riding a three game win streak coming into tonight after defeating the Prince Albert Raiders Saturday night. The Kings dominated the Raiders winning 9-2, Michael St. Croix once again led the way with three goals and a pair of assists. He has been named the WHL, and CHL player of the week and has moved into third in league scoring.

The Americans come in after losing their last two and have only won once in their last five games. Last time out they lost 4-3 in a shoot out to the Kamloops Blazers in a battle for top spot in the WHL's Western Conference. Tonight's matchup will feature the league's highest scoring team (Oil Kings, 208 goals for) against the stingiest (Americans, 112 goals against). Five of the league's top ten scorers will lace them up tonight as well, as Michael St. Croix (3rd, 77pts) and Dylan Wruck (10th, 62pts) face the Americans attack which features Adam Hughesman (6th, 72 pts), Brendan Shinniman (7th, 71 pts) and Patrick Holland (9th, 65 pts).

Photo: Oilkings.ca

Season Series: This is the lone match up between the two teams this season. Last year the Americans took theonly game in a tight affair in Kennewick, Washington. They scored a power play goal in overtime to secure a 4-3 win in a very entertaining tilt.

Next Up: The Oil Kings continue their five game homestand on Friday against the Brandon Wheat Kings in what could be a first round playoff preview. The Giants make their lone appearance at Rexall on Saturday night. The Americans continue their three game Alberta road trip Friday in Red Deer before facing Calgary on Saturday night.

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (31)
TC-Adam Hughesman (29)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (77)
TC- Hughesman (72)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (27)
TC- Ty Rimmer (19)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (97)
TC- Jesse Mychan (115)

Drafted:

EDM- Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

TC- Patrick Holland- Flames (7th, 2010. Rights traded to Montreal), Zachary Yuen- Winnipeg Jets (3rd, 2011).

Injury Report:

EDM: #21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, week to week
#22, Ryan Dech, Lower body, 1 month+
#24, Mason Geertsen, Upper body, 2 weeks
#26, Kristians Pelss, Upper body, day to day

TC:#3, Sam Grist, Lower body, day to day
#21, Marcus Messier, Upper body, 1 week

Notes: Griffin Reinhart is expected to make his return to the Edmonton lineup tonight. Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is 3rd in league scoring (77), Dylan Wruck is 10th (62). Defenceman Martin Gernat is 9th in rookie scoring (32) and he is tied for 13th in scoring amongst defencemen. Curtis Lazar is 19th in rookie scoring (23). Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 4th in GAA (2.40), and is tied for 2nd in wins (27). The Oil Kings have the second rated PK in the league, their PP is also ranked 2nd. For Tri-City, Adam Hughesman is tied for 5thth in scoring (72), Brendan Shinniman is 7th in scoring (71), and Patrick Holland is 9th in scoring (65). Ty Rimmer leads all WHL goaltenders with a 2.13 GAA, Eric Comrie is 8th (2.60). Rimmer also leads the league with 5 shutouts. Tri-City has the top ranked penalty kill in the league, their power play is 6th. This is the only meeting between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 MT on the Team 1260.

WHL Top Ten #15

2012-01-23T22:52:00.001-07:00

This is a poll of several Team 1260 members who follow the WHL closely and is compiled each Monday of the WHL season.

Weekly Review #15

2012-01-23T20:18:00.000-07:00

Review: The Oil Kings went a perfect 3-0 last week. Things opened up with Laurent Brossoit securing his second shutout of the season in 5-0 win over the visiting Prince George Cougars. Michael St. Croix picked up a natural hat trick, his second three goal game of the year. They followed that up with a 6-1 win in Swift Current. The game featured a scary incident late when Mason Geertsen was slammed into the boards at the Oil King bench and was taking to hospital. The good news is that Geertsen is ok and shouldn't be out of the lineup for too long. Edmonton wrapped up their two game trip handing Prince Albert a 9-2 loss. Again Michael St. Croix had a hat trick and five points in the game. St. Croix was named the WHL's player of the week, and Laurent Brossoit was nominated for the CHL's goaltender of the week award.

Last Week: Wednesday Jan. 18- Win 5-0 vs Prince George

Friday Jan. 20- Win 6-1 @ Swift Current

Saturday Jan. 21- Win 9-2 @ Prince Albert

Upcoming: The Oil Kings open up a five game homestand on Wedenesday at Rexall Place. It is their longest remaining homestand of the season. Wednesday they face the CHL's top ranked team the Tri-City Americans. It is the only meeting between the Kings and Ams this season. Edmonton faces the Wheat Kings on Friday, before matching up with the Giants on Saturday.

Leaders: Goals: Michael St. Croix (31)

Assists: St. Croix (46)

Points: St. Croix (77)

PIMS: Keegan Lowe (97)

Plus/Minus: St. Croix (+30)

Wins: Laurent Brossoit (27)

Firsts: Game- Martin Gernat, Ashton Sautner, Cole Benson @ Red Deer, Sept 25. Tristan Jarry @ Saskatoon, Oct 8. Cody Corbett @ Brandon Oct 29, Brandon Baddock @ Lethbridge Nov. 19, Henrik Samuelsson @ Medicine Hat Jan. 12.

Goal- Gernat @ Red Deer, Sept 25,Curtis Lazar vs Medicine Hat Sept 30 (first regular season goal, scored in playoffs Mar 31, 2011), Mitch Moroz @ Swift Current Oct. 9, Ashton Sautner vs Portland Oct 21, Cody Corbett @ Victoria Nov. 8, Cole Benson vs Prince Albert Nov. 18, Henrik Samuelsson vs Kootenay Jan. 14, Tristan Sieban @ Prince Albert Jan 21.

Point- Gernat, Sautner @ Red Deer Sept 25, Tristan Sieben @ Medicine Hat Oct 1, Laurent Brossoit vs Regina Oct. 14, Corbett @ Victoria Nov 8, Benson, Mason Geertsen vs Prince Albert Nov 18, Henrik Samuelsson @ Medicine Hat, Jan 12.

Win- Tristan Jarry Oct 26 vs Everett.

Streaks: Tyler Maxwell 6 games (8-5-13), Martin Gernat 4 games (0-7-7), Michael St. Croix 3 games (6-4-10), Rhett Rachinski 2 games (1-2-3), Henrik Samuelsson 2 games (1-2-3), Stephane Legault 2 games 2 games (0-3-3), Curtis Lazar 2 games (1-1-2), Mitch Moroz 2 games (1-1-2), Keegan Lowe 2 games (0-2-2)

Notes: The Kings head into the week leading the Eastern Conference with 69 points through 48 games. Michael St. Croix entered the week 3rd in WHL scoring with 77 points in 48 games. Dylan Wruck is 10th in league scoring with 62 points in 48 games. The Oil Kings have the top ranked power play in the league and the second ranked penalty in the league heading into the week.

Drafted: Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

Schedule:

Tuesday-

Wednesday- vs Tri-City Americans, Rexall Place, 7pm

Thursday-

Friday- vs Brandon Wheat Kings, Rexall Place, 7pm

Saturday- vs Vancouver Giants, Rexall Place, 7pm

Sunday-

Monday-

GDB #48 @ Prince Albert

2012-01-21T11:27:00.002-07:00

Oil Kings (47 31-11-1-4) vs Raiders (46 15-28-1-2)

The Oil Kings wrap up their two game trip at the Art Hauser Centre tonight when they face off with the Raiders. Edmonton dominated the Swift Current Broncos last night, winning 6-1. Captain Mark Pysyk led the way offensively with two goals and an assist. Tyler Maxwell chipped in a pair of goals as well, including scoring the opening goal of the game for the fourth straight time. The game got a bit out of hand as the Broncos trailed 5-0 in the second period and became chippy. There was a scary incident late in the game, when Mason Geertsen was checked late by Colby Cave, sending Geertsen awkwardly into the boards in front of the Oil King bench. After doctors helped him off the ice, he spent the night in hospital, but all signs were good for the 16 year old. Tristan Jarry picked up the win for Edmonton, who have won two straight.

The Raiders fell last night to the visiting Victoria Royals, 6-4. PA tied the game with a pair of goals early in the third period, but were unable to hold off the Royal attack as Victoria got goals from Austin Carroll and Logan Nelson to secure the win. The Raiders have now dropped four straight and sit last in the WHL's Eastern Conference with 33 points through 46 games. Cole Holowenko has been the goalie of record in 12 straight games for the Raiders, every game since they dealt Eric Williams to the Chiefs.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Season Series: This is the fourth and final meeting between the clubs this season. Edmonton has won all three of the previous meetings this year. They won their first game of the season at the Art Hauser on September 28 downing the Raiders 4-1. They also defeated the Raiders 4-3 at Rexall Place on a Rhett Rachinski goal with six seconds left in the third. The Kings downed PA 5-3 the last time the teams met.

Next Up: The Oil Kings return home to face the Tri-City Americans on Wednesday night. The game kicks off a five game homestand for the Kings, and could feature the two conference leaders, depending on the outcome of Tri-City's game with the Kamloops Blazers tonight. The Raiders are also off until Wednesday when they kick off a three game roadie in Medicine Hat.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (28)
PA-Mike Winther (23)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (72)
PA- Justin Maylan (59)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (26)
PA- Cole Holowenko (7)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (95)
PA- Tyler Yaworski (133)

Drafted:

EDM- Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

PA- Mark McNeill- Chicago Blackhawks (1st, 2011), Harrison Ruopp- Phoenix Coyotes (3rd, 2011). Kellan Tochkin signed free agent- Vancouver Canucks.

Injury Report:

EDM: #8, Griffin Reinhart, Upper body, day to day

#21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, 1 month

#22, Ryan Dech, Lower body, 1 month

#24, Mason Geertsen, TBD

PA:

#4, Tyler Hart, Lower body, day to day

#25, Carson Perreaux, Upper body, day to day

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is 4th in league scoring (72), Dylan Wruck is tied for 10th (59). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied for 9th in rookie scoring (30) and he is tied for 13th in scoring amongst defencemen. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 4th in GAA (2.41), and is tied for 2nd in wins (26). The Oil Kings have the second rated PK in the league, their PP is also ranked 2nd. For Prince Albert, Justin Maylan is tied for 10th in scoring (59). Josh Morissey is 14th in rookie scoring (24). This is the fourth and final meeting between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 5:45, the puck drops at 6:00 MT on the Team 1260.

GDB #47 @ Swift Current

2012-01-20T10:27:00.002-07:00

Oil Kings (46 30-11-1-4) vs Broncos (45 18-22-2-3)

The Oil Kings kick off a quick two game Saskatchewan road trip tonight in Swift Current. Edmonton is coming off a 5-0 victory over the Prince George Cougars Wednesday night at Rexall Place. Michael St. Croix led the way offensively with a natural hat-trick, while Laurent Brossoit made 26 saves to secure his second goose egg of the season. Brossoit made a save on a Greg Fraser penalty shot in the first period that changed the momentum after the Cougars had the early jump.

The Broncos have won two straight themselves and sit tenth in the WHL's Eastern Conference, they trail Brandon by eight points for the final playoff spot in the conference. Swift beat Victoria 3-1 on Tuesday night at the I-Plex, and shut out Red Deer 4-0 over the weekend. It was the first shutout in former Oil King Jon Groenheyde's career. He has appeared in 12 straight games for the Broncos.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Season Series: This is the third of four meetings between the clubs this season and the final one in Speedy Creek. Edmonton has won the prior two meetings, 4-1 here in Swift and 5-3 in Edmonton a couple weeks back. The teams square off once more at Rexall Place on March 3.

Next Up: The Oil Kings are right back at it tomorrow night in Prince Albert as they wrap up their swing. The Kings have a five game homestand coming up to wrap up January and begin February. Meanwhile the Broncos finish off a three game homestand here tonight and hit the road for a one game trip to Medicine Hat where they face the Tigers tomorrow.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (28)
SC-Taylor Vause (24)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (70)
SC- Vause (53)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (26)
SC- Jon Groenheyde (15)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (95)
SC- Andy Blanke (109)

Drafted:

EDM- Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

SC- SC- Adam Lowery- Winnipeg Jets (3rd, 2011), Reece Scarlett- New Jersey Devils (6th, 2011), Richard Nedomiel- Detroit Red Wings (6th, 2011)

Injury Report:

EDM: #8, Griffin Reinhart, Upper body, day to day
#21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, 1 month
#22, Ryan Dech, Lower body, 1 month

PG: #5, Jordan Evans, Upper body, 1 month+
#13, Shea Howorko, Upper body, week to week
#17, Adam Lowry, Upper body, 1 month+

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is tied for 5th in league scoring (70), Dylan Wruck is 10th (59). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied for 9th in rookie scoring (29) and he is tied for 14th in scoring amongst defencemen. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 4th in GAA (2.41), and is 2nd in wins (26). The Oil Kings have the second rated PK in the league, their PP the best in the WHL. For Swift Current, Taylor Vause is tied for 19th in scoring (53). Coda Gordon is 4th in rookie scoring (38), Graham Black is tied for 9th (29). Reece Scarlett is tied for 10th in scoring amongst defencemen (33). This is the third of four meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 5:45, the puck drops at 6:00 MT on the Team 1260.

GDB #46 vs Prince George

2012-01-18T13:48:00.000-07:00

Oil Kings (45 29-11-1-4) vs Cougars (43 15-26-0-2)

The Kings return to Rexall Place tonight for their first matchup with the Prince George Cougars. Edmonton comes in after losing Sunday afternoon in Calgary, 4-3 to the Hitmen. The Oil Kings looked like a tired team coming off a Saturday night 3-2 overtime win against Kootenay. Curtis Lazar, Tyler Maxwell, and Mitch Moroz tallied for the Kings in Calgary, Tristan Jarry faced 38 shots.

The Cougars kick off a three game Alberta road trip tonight. Coming off a successful weekend where they downed Lethbridge in back to back games, the Cougars are in a battle for the playoffs in the Western Conference. They come into action tonight a point behind Victoria for the final playoff spot in the West, and have a couple games in hand on the Royals.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

The Cougars made a few signifigant moves at the trade deadline with an eye towards the future. They dealt Oilers draft pick Martin Marincin to the Pats for Ricard Blidstrand and a package of picks, and sent the rights to Tampa Bay Lightning forward Brett Connolly to the Tri City Americans for a 5th round pick and conditional picks if he is sent back to the WHL. Prince George is a very young team featuring seven 16 year olds on their roster, including 2010 first overall pick in the Bantam Draft, Alex Forsberg. Tonight will mark the first matchup between him and second overall pick, Curtis Lazar.

Season Series: This is the first of three games this season between the two clubs. Last year Edmonton was 3-1 against the Cougars including a pair of tight games won by Dylan Wruck. He scored the OT winner with no time on the clock in a wild 8-7 win at Rexall Place, and tallied a late third period goal for Edmonton in a thrilling come from behind win. The teams will play a pair of games in Prince George next month.

Next Up: The Oil Kings hit the road for a pair of games after tonight. They face the Broncos in Swift Current on Friday night, then play their second game in Prince Albert on Saturday. The Cougars play Friday in Calgary before wrapping up their Alberta swing Saturday in Red Deer.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (25)
PG-Greg Fraser, Alex Forsberg (11)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (67)
PG- Troy Bourke (33)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (25)
PG- Drew Owsley (14)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (95)
PG- Campbell Elynuik (106)

Drafted:

EDM- Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

PG- Ricard Blidstrand- Philadelphia Flyers (7th, 2010)

Injury Report:

EDM: #8, Griffin Reinhart, Upper body, day to day
#21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, 1 month
#22, Ryan Dech, Lower body, 1 month

PG: #2, Dan Gibb, Lower body, day to day
#4, Linden Springer, Upper body, day to day
#17, Caleb Belter, Upper body, day to day
#21, Shane Pilling, Upper body, day to day
#26, Campbell Elynuik, Lower body, day to day

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is tied for 7th in league scoring (67), Dylan Wruck is10th (57). Defenceman Martin Gernat is 11th in rookie scoring (26) and he is tied for 18th in scoring amongst defencemen. Curtis Lazar is tied for 19th in rookie scoring. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 4th in GAA (2.47), and is 2nd in wins (25). The Oil Kings have the second rated PK in the league, their PP is also 2nd. For Prince George, Alex Forsberg is tied for 9th in rookie scoring (29). Drew Owsley is 13th in GAA (2.94), he is also tied for the league lead with 22 losses. The Oil Kings will be without Henrik Samuelsson tonight as he received a one game suspension for charging last time out in Calgary. This is the first of three meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 on the Team 1260.

WHL Top Ten # 14

2012-01-17T22:22:00.002-07:00

This is a poll of several Team 1260 members who follow the WHL closely and is compiled each Monday of the WHL season.

Weekly Review #14

2012-01-16T23:28:00.000-07:00

Review: The Oil Kings collected four of six points with a pair of victories this past week. Things opened up with a convincing 6-2 in Medicine Hat. It was their first win in the 'Hat in modern franchise history, they were winless in 14 attempts. Saturday night, at Rexall Place, the Kings outlasted the Kootenay Ice 3-2 in overtime. Jordan Peddle sniped the winner after Ice netminder Nathan Lieuwen made numerous five alarm saves to keep his team in it. Henrik Samuelsson registered his first WHL goal. The Kings headed to Calgary immediately after the game and dropped a hard fought game with the Hitmen 4-3 on Sunday afternoon.

Last Week: Thursday Jan. 12- Win 6-2 @ Medicine Hat

Saturday Jan. 14- Win 3-2 OT vs Kootenay

Sunday Jan. 15- Loss 4-3 @Calgary

Upcoming: The Kings return to Rexall to face the Prince George Cougars on Wednesday night. It will be the first of three meetings between the clubs on the season. Edmonton is right back on the road after the game for a pair of tilts in Saskatchewan. They visit Swift Current on Friday, and are in Prince Albert Saturday night.

Leaders: Goals: Michael St. Croix (25)

Assists: St. Croix (42)

Points: St. Croix (67)

PIMS: Keegan Lowe (95)

Plus/Minus: St. Croix, Dylan Wruck (+23)

Wins: Laurent Brossoit (25)

Firsts: Game- Martin Gernat, Ashton Sautner, Cole Benson @ Red Deer, Sept 25. Tristan Jarry @ Saskatoon, Oct 8. Cody Corbett @ Brandon Oct 29, Brandon Baddock @ Lethbridge Nov. 19, Henrik Samuelsson @ Medicine Hat Jan. 12.

Goal- Gernat @ Red Deer, Sept 25,Curtis Lazar vs Medicine Hat Sept 30 (first regular season goal, scored in playoffs Mar 31, 2011), Mitch Moroz @ Swift Current Oct. 9, Ashton Sautner vs Portland Oct 21, Cody Corbett @ Victoria Nov. 8, Cole Benson vs Prince Albert Nov. 18, Henrik Samuelsson vs Kootenay Jan. 14.

Point- Gernat, Sautner @ Red Deer Sept 25, Tristan Sieben @ Medicine Hat Oct 1, Laurent Brossoit vs Regina Oct. 14, Corbett @ Victoria Nov 8, Benson, Mason Geertsen vs Prince Albert Nov 18, Henrik Samuelsson @ Medicine Hat, Jan 12.

Win- Tristan Jarry Oct 26 vs Everett.

Streaks: Dylan Wruck 3 games (1-3-5), Kristians Pelss 3 games (2-3-5), Tristan Sieban 2 games (0-2-2)

Notes: Henrik Samuelsson will miss the game against Prince George, he drew a one game suspension for a charging major in Calgary. The Kings head into the week leading the Eastern Conference with 63 points through 45 games. Michael St. Croix entered the week tied in 6th in WHL scoring with 67 points in 45 games. He is pointless in his last four outings. Dylan Wruck has moved into 10th in league scoring. The Oil Kings have the second ranked power play and second ranked penalty in the league heading into the week.

Drafted: Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

Schedule:

Tuesday-

Wednesday- vs Prince George, Rexall Place, 7pm

Thursday- Travel Day

Friday- @ Swift Current, Credit Union I-Plex, 6pm (MT)

Saturday- @ Prince Albert, Art Hauser Centre, 6pm (MT)

Sunday-

Monday-

GDB #43 @ Medicine Hat

2012-01-12T11:36:00.000-07:00

Oil Kings (42 27-10-1-4) vs Tigers (43 24-15-2-2)

The lone game on the WHL schedule features the Oil Kings in Medicine Hat tonight. Edmonton is coming of a hard fought shoot out loss at the hands of the Red Deer Rebels on Sunday night. The game featured a total of 114 minutes in penalties between the two Alberta rivals. The Kings were able to tie the game in the third period on a beauty by Kristians Pelss, and controlled the second half of the game but were unable to put the Rebels away.

Photo: Dylan Lynch/Edmonton Oil Kings

The Tigers are coming off a 3-1 loss in Kootenay on Sunday as well. Medicine Hat has lost 3 of their last four with their lone win over that stretch being an overtime win in Red Deer. They boast a pair of the WHL's top players in Emersom Etem, an Anaheim Duck first round pick, as well as Hunter Shinkaruk, a 17 year old who isn't draft eligible until 2013. In goal is Oiler prospect Tyler Bunz who is having another fine season between the pipes.

We should see the debut of Henrik Samuelsson, brought in by the Oil Kings earlier this week after playing for Modo in the Swedish Elite League earlier this season. Also the it will mark the Medicine Hat debut of Fort Saskatchewan product Brendan Hurley, acquired from Kootenay at the trade deadline.

Season Series: Medicine Hat is 2-1 with the Oil Kings this season, winning the first two matchups (5-3 and 4-3 in a shoot out). The Kings shut out the Tigers (3-0) in the last matchup in November at Rexall Place. The teams visit each other once more down the stretch this year. The Kings slipped back to 8th in the CHL Top Ten rankings, but have been nationally ranked for three straight weeks. Edmonton has five players on NHL Central Scouting's Mid Terem Rankings, Griffin Reinhart is 8th, Ashton Sautner 91st, Cody Corbett 92nd, Mitch Moroz 171st and Henrik Samuelsson is 33rd amongst European skaters based on his season in Modo.

Photo: Dylan Lynch/Edmonton Oil Kings

Next Up: The Oil Kings are right back home on Saturday night to face the Kootenay Ice. The Kings will also welcome the Hanson Brothers, from the movie Slapshot that night as well. It is only a brief stay in Edmonton for the Kings as they play the Hitmen in Calgary on Sunday afternoon. Medicine Hat wraps up their two game homestand on Saturday when they face the Warriors.

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (25)
MH- Emerson Etem (34)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (67)
MH- Etem (65)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (23)
MH- Tyler Bunz (23)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (90)
MH- Kale Kessy (100)

Drafted:

EDM- Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

MH- Emerson Etem- Anaheim Ducks (1st, 2010), Alex Theriau- Dallas Stars (4th, 2010), Tyler Bunz- Oilers (5th, 2010), Kale Kessy- Phoenix Coyotes (4th, 2011)

Injury Report:

EDM: #8, Griffin Reinhart, Upper body, day to day
#21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, 1 month
#22, Ryan Dech, Lower body, tbd
#28, Martin Gernat, Upper body, day to day

MH: None

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is for 4th in league scoring (67), Dylan Wruck is tied in 12th (54). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied for 12th in rookie scoring in the WHL (25) and he is tied for 16th in scoring amongst defencemen. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is tied for 5th in GAA (2.50), and is tied for 3rd in wins (23). The Oil Kings have the second rated PK in the league, their PP is also 2nd. For Medicine Hat Emerson Etem is 6th in scoring (65), Hunter Shinkaruk is tied in 12th (54). Etem and Shinkaruk are also 2-3 in goal scroring. Jayden Hart is 17th in rookie scoring (22). James Bettauer and Mathew Konan are tied for 5th in scoring amongst defencemen (34). Tyler Bunz in tied with Brossoit for 5th in GAA (2.50), and tied with him for 3rd inwins (23). Bunz leads the league in minutes played (2255) and is third in save percentage (.923). The Oil Kings have yet to win in Medicine Hat going 0-10-1-3 in the Arena. This is the fourth of six meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 on the Team 1260.

WHL Top Ten #13

2012-01-11T11:26:00.001-07:00

This is a poll of several Team 1260 members who follow the WHL closely and is compiled each Monday of the WHL season.

Weekly Review #13

2012-01-10T23:14:00.000-07:00

Review: The Kings picked up five of six points this past week after they returned home from their World Junior World Trip. They managed to come from behind to double up the Hurricanes 6-3, still playing with a shortened lineup with six players wrapping up their international commitments. The full lineup contributed to a victory over the Broncos on Saturday, and the week wrapped up with a hard fought shoot out loss to the Rebels on Sunday night.

Last Week: Wednesday Jan. 4- Win- 6-3 vs Lethbridge

Saturday Jan. 7- Win 5-3 vs Swift Current

Sunday Jan. 8- Loss 4-3 vs Red Deer (Shoot out)

Upcoming: The Kings hit the road on Thursday to face the Tigers in Medicine Hat. The game should mark the debut of the newest Oil King, Henrik Samuelsson, brought in from Modo of the Swedish Elite League. Samuelsson is not an import in the WHL as he was born in Arizona and has represented the US at international tournaments. Edmonton is yet to record a win in the Hat going 0-14 in their modern franchise history. They return home to face the Kootenay Ice on Saturday night, and wrap the week up with their first visit to Calgary on Sunday afternoon.

Leaders: Goals: Michael St. Croix (25)

Assists: St. Croix (42)

Points: St. Croix (67)

PIMS: Keegan Lowe (95)

Plus/Minus: Dylan Wruck (+24)

Wins: Laurent Brossoit (23)

Firsts: Game- Martin Gernat, Ashton Sautner, Cole Benson @ Red Deer, Sept 25. Tristan Jarry @ Saskatoon, Oct 8. Cody Corbett @ Brandon Oct 29, Brandon Baddock @ Lethbridge Nov. 19.

Goal- Gernat @ Red Deer, Sept 25,Curtis Lazar vs Medicine Hat Sept 30 (first regular season goal, scored in playoffs Mar 31, 2011), Mitch Moroz @ Swift Current Oct. 9, Ashton Sautner vs Portland Oct 21, Cody Corbett @ Victoria Nov. 8, Cole Benson vs Prince Albert Nov. 18.

Point- Gernat, Sautner @ Red Deer Sept 25, Tristan Sieben @ Medicine Hat Oct 1, Laurent Brossoit vs Regina Oct. 14, Corbett @ Victoria Nov 8, Benson, Mason Geertsen vs Prince Albert Nov 18.

Win- Tristan Jarry Oct 26 vs Everett.

Streaks: Dylan Wruck 3 games (1-3-5), Kristians Pelss 3 games (2-3-5), Tristan Sieban 2 games (0-2-2)

Notes: The Oil Kings made one move at the WHL trade deadline dealing 20 year Cameron Reid to Portland for a second round Bantam Draft Pick in 2013. Reid had been on Edmonton's list since their expansion year. He had been playing for St. Cloud in the NCAA, but will report to Portland. The Kings head into the week leading the Eastern Conference with 59 points through 42 games. Michael St. Croix entered the week fourth in WHL scoring with 67 points in 42 games. Their power play is 3rd in the WHL, their penalty kill is 2nd. The Oil Kings moved up to 7th in the CHL Top Ten Rankings. The Kings have been nationally ranked for 3 consecutive weeks.

Drafted: Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

Schedule:

Tuesday-

Wednesday-

Thursday- @ Medicine Hat, Medicine Hat Arena, 7pm

Friday-

Saturday- vs Kootenay Ice, Rexall Place, 7pm

Sunday- @ Calgary Hitmen, Scotiabank Saddledome, 2pm

Monday-

GDB #41 vs Swift Current Broncos

2012-01-07T15:19:00.000-07:00

Oil Kings (40 26-10-1-3) vs Broncos (41 16-20-2-3)

The Kings continue their three game homestand with a Saturday night affair with the Swift Current Broncos. Edmonton is coming off a 6-3 win over the Lethbridge Hurricanes on Wednesday night. The Kings got goals from six different players (Wilson, Foster, Benson, St. Croix, Wruck, and Moroz). Lethbridge had a 1-0 lead after 20 minutes, but were heavily outshot by the Kings (19-5). Edmonton scored five times in the second period and cruised to their 26th win of the year. Former Bronco Jordan Peddle will face his old team for the second time this season, he was acquired for Jon Groenheyde early in the season.

Photo by Darwin Knelson

Swift Current beat the Rebels last night in Red Deer, holding on for a 3-2 win. 20 year old Taylor Vause led the way with a goal and a pair of assists, while Groenheyde made 32 saves. The win moved the Broncos into a tie with the Rebels for 9th in the East, seven points behind Brandon for the final playoff spot.
It was the first game as a Bronco for Adam Rossignol, acquired earlier in the day from the Kootenay Ice for defenseman Tanner Muth. The WHL trade deadline is Tuesday.

Henrik Samuelsson

The Oil Kings also made a roster move this week. They signed 17 year old Arizona product, Henrik Samuelsson. He had been playing in Modo of the Swedish Elite League. Samuelsson is the son of former NHLer Ulf, and is expected to arrive in Edmonton tomorrow night. He is projected as a possible first round NHL pick in this year`s draft. To make room on the roster the Kings waived Dave Stephens.

The Kings also will be getting all of their players back from the World Juniors and the U17s tonight. Mark Pysyk arrived last, yesterday after practice with his Bronze Medal. Krisitans Pelss practiced with the team, as did Mason Geertsen, Curtis Lazar and Tristan Jarry. It appears that Martin Gernat may take the weekend off with a minor upper body injury sustained while representing Slovakia.

Season Series: The Oil Kings took the lone matchup earlier this season in Swift Current by a 4-1 score. Stephane Legault recorded a hat trick in the win. The teams will play twice more after tonight, once each at Rexall Place and the Credit Union I-Plex in Swift.

Next Up: The Oil Kings wrap up their homestand tomorrow night when they face the Red Deer Rebels. It will mark just the second of six meetings between the two clubs. Red Deer took the first in the Oil Kings first game of the season 4-3 in overtime in Red Deer. The Broncos complete a three game trip here tonight and head home where they will enjoy some time off before facing Saskatoon on Friday night.

Photo: scbroncos.com

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (25)
SC- Taylor Vause (23)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (65)
SC- Vause (49)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (23)
SC- Jon Groenheyde (13)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (90)
SC- Andy Blanke (104)

Drafted:

EDM- Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

SC- Adam Lowery- Winnipeg Jets (3rd, 2011), Reece Scarlett- New Jersey Devils (6th, 2011), Richard Nedomiel- Detroit Red Wings (6th, 2011)

Injury Report:

EDM:#21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, 1 month +

SC: #5, Jordan Evans, Upper body, 1 month +
#13, Shea Howorko, Upper body, week to week
#15, Adam Smith, Upper body, 1-2 weeks
#17, Adam Lowry, Upper body, 1 month+

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is tied for 4th in league scoring (65), Dylan Wruck is 13th (52). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied for 12th in rookie scoring in the WHL (25) and he is tied for 15th in scoring amongst defencemen. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is tied for 4th in GAA (2.50), and is tied for 2nd wins (23). The Oil Kings have the second rated PK in the league, their PP is also 2nd. For Swift Taylor Vause is 16th in scoring (49). Coda Gordon is 4th in rookie scorin (35), Graham Black is 10th (27). Reece Scarlett is tied for 8th in scoring amongst defensemen (31). This is the second of four meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 on the Team 1260.

GDB #40 vs Lethbridge

2012-01-04T14:12:00.001-07:00

Oil Kings (39 25-10-1-3) vs Hurricanes (41 15-25-0-1)

The Oil Kings return to Rexall Place to open up a three game homestand against the Lethbridge Hurricanes. The Kings are coming of their four game World Junior road trip which saw them go 2-1-0-1. Last time out they lost 5-2 in Regina. The Kings were unable to beat the Pats at all this year, going 0-4 after sweeping them last season. Newly minted WHL Player of the Month, Michael St. Croix stretched his point streak to five games with a pair of goals. St. Croix now has points in 15 of his last 17 games. He has 30 points over that stretch and has moved into third in league scoring. This will mark the final time the Oil Kings will be missing six players (Pysyk, Pelss, Gernat, Lazar, Geertsen, and Jarry) who are all involved with international tournaments. Curtis Lazar, Mason Geertsen, and Tristan Jarry finished 5th with Team Pacific at the U17 World Hockey Challenge. Kristians Pelss and Team Latvia defeated Denmark 2-1 in OT to finish 9th in the World Junior Hockey Championships, while Martin Gernat and the Slovaks face the Czech Republic in the 5-6 game tonight. Mark Pysyk and Team Canada play Finland for the Bronze tomorrow afternoon.

Photo Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

The game tonight features the East leading Oil Kings and the basement dwelling Hurricanes. Lethbridge has 31 points in 41 games and are tied with Prince Albert for the last spot in the East division. They snapped a three game losing streak last time out with a 7-2 win over the Kootenay Ice. Daniel Johnston led the way with three assists. Lethbridge has earned a victory against Edmonton earlier this year, they can play a very physical brand of hockey and will look to grind the Oil Kings speedy forwards.

Photo Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Season Series: The Oil Kings have beaten the Hurricanes three times so far this season. Edmonton is 3-1 against Lethbridge with 5-1, 10-3, and 5-2 victories. The Hurricanes defeated the Kings 5-2 in Lethbridge in November. The teams will play once more this year in Edmonton on February 26th.

Next Up: The Oil Kings will continue their three game homestand on Saturday night. They face former Oil King netminder Jon Groenheyde and the Swift Current Broncos. The Hurricanes return home to play Medicine Hat Thursday before embarking on a six game road trip.

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (24)
LET- Cam Braes (21)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (62)
LET- Braes (40)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (22)
LET- Damian Ketlo (11)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (88)
LET- Graham Hood (71)

Drafted:

EDM- Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

LET- Brody Sutter- Carolina Hurricanes (7th, 2011)

Injury Report:

EDM:#15, David Stephens, Upper body, week to week
#21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, 1 month +

LET: #2, Spencer Galbraith, Upper body, 1 week
#15, Michael Sofillas, Upper body, 1 month +
#16, Austin Fyten, Lower body, 1 month +
#26, Max Moline, Lower body, 1 month +

Players away at International Tournaments:

EDM: Mark Pysyk (Canada WJHC), Martin Gernat (Slovakia WJHC), Kristians Pelss (Latvia WJHC), Curtis Lazar, Mason Geertsen, Tristan Jarry (Team Pacific, U17)

LET: Macoy Erkamps, Jay Merkley (Team Pacific, U17), Craig Leverton (Team West, U17)

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is 3rdin league scoring (62), Dylan Wruck is 11th (50). Defenceman Martin Gernat is12th in rookie scoring in the WHL (25), Curtis Lazar is tied for 18th (19). Gernat is tied for 14th in scoring amongst defencemen. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is tied for 5th in GAA (2.48), and is tied for 3rd wins (22). The Oil Kings have the second rated PK in the league, their PP is tied for 2nd. This is the fifth of six meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 on the Team 1260.com.

Oil Kings Weekly Review #12

2012-01-03T20:29:00.000-07:00

Review: The Oil Kings kicked off the second half of the season on a four game road trip due to the World Junior Championships in Edmonton. Things opened well for the Kings with a 7-2 win in Saskatoon over the Blades. The next night they played a fantastic game, losing 4-3 in a shootout in Moose Jaw. They rounded out the trip with a dominate performance beating the Wheat Kings 7-1 before falling 5-2 in Regina. The Oil Kings end their season series with the Pats without a victory, going 0-4.

Last Week: Tuesday Dec. 27- Win 7-2 @ Saskatoon

Wednesday Dec. 28- Loss 4-3 SO @ Moose Jaw

Friday Dec. 30- Win 7-1 @ Brandon

Sunday Jan. 1- Loss 5-2 @ Regina

Upcoming: The Oil Kings return to Rexall Place for the first time in 2012 on Wednesday night when they welcome the Lethbridge Hurricanes. The three game home stand also features former Oil King netminder Jon Groenheyde and the Swift Current Broncos on Saturday, and the second meeting of the year with the Red Deer Rebels on Sunday afternoon.

Leaders: Goals: Michael St. Croix (24)

Assists: St. Croix (38)

Points: St. Croix (62)

PIMS: Keegan Lowe (88)

Plus/Minus: Martin Gernat (+23)

Wins: Laurent Brossoit (22)

Firsts: Game- Martin Gernat, Ashton Sautner, Cole Benson @ Red Deer, Sept 25. Tristan Jarry @ Saskatoon, Oct 8. Cody Corbett @ Brandon Oct 29, Brandon Baddock @ Lethbridge Nov. 19.

Goal- Gernat @ Red Deer, Sept 25,Curtis Lazar vs Medicine Hat Sept 30 (first regular season goal, scored in playoffs Mar 31, 2011), Mitch Moroz @ Swift Current Oct. 9, Ashton Sautner vs Portland Oct 21, Cody Corbett @ Victoria Nov. 8, Cole Benson vs Prince Albert Nov. 18.

Point- Gernat, Sautner @ Red Deer Sept 25, Tristan Sieben @ Medicine Hat Oct 1, Laurent Brossoit vs Regina Oct. 14, Corbett @ Victoria Nov 8, Benson, Mason Geertsen vs Prince Albert Nov 18.

Win- Tristan Jarry Oct 26 vs Everett.

Streaks: Dylan Wruck 8 games (4-12-16), Michael St. Croix 7 games (9-10-19), Tyler Maxwell 5 games (5-4-9), Rhett Rachinski 3 games (2-1-3), Mark Pysyk 3 games (1-4-5)

Notes: The Oil Kings were down six regular players (Pysyk, Pelss, Gernat, Lazar, Geertsen, and Jarry) during their road trip. They are expected to back in time to face the Broncos on Saturday night. Ryan Aasman, Braeden Johnson, and Brendan Jensen joined the team on the road as APs. Heading into the week the Kings led the WHL's Eastern Conference with 54 points. Michael St. Croix entered the week third in WHL scoring with 62 points in 39 games. The Oil Kings power play is tied for 2nd, their penalty kill in 2nd. The Oil Kings have been ranked 8th in the CHL Top Ten Rankings for back to back weeks.

Drafted: Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)
Schedule:

Tuesday-

Wednesday- vs Lethbridge Hurricanes, Rexall Place, 7pm

Thursday-

Friday-

Saturday- vs Swift Current Broncos, Rexall Place, 7pm

Sunday- vs Red Deer Rebels, Rexall Place, 2pm

Monday-

WHL Top Ten #12

2012-01-03T11:44:00.002-07:00

This is a poll of several Team 1260 members who follow the WHL closely and is compiled each Monday of the WHL season.

GDB #39 @ Regina

2011-12-31T15:40:00.001-07:00

Oil Kings (38 25-9-1-3) vs Regina Pats (39 20-15-3-1)

The Oil Kings wrap up their four game East Division road swing Sunday afternoon in Regina. Edmonton is coming of a very impressive 7-1 win over the Brandon Wheat Kings on Friday night. Netminder Laurent Brossoit made several huge saves, stopping 41 of 42 shots to earn his 22 win on the season. Micheal St. Croix had a pair of goals and assist, Dyan Wruck had a goal and a couple helpers, while Stephane Legault, Cole Benson, Mitch Moroz, and Jordan Peddle all tallied for the Kings.

The Pats are also playing good hockey coming into the afternoon affair. Regina beat Swift Current 4-1 on Friday. It marked the 25th anniversary of the tragic Bronco bus accident that claimed the lives of Trent Kresse, Scott Kruger, Chris Mantyka, and Brent Ruff. The Broncos were on their way to Regina that evening. On Friday Jordan Weal had a goal and four points and Dyson Stevenson had a pair of goals.

Another trade Saturday in the WHL. The Prince Albert Raiders dealing their captain, 20 year old forward Brandon Herrod to the Kamloops Blazers for 17 year old centre Logan McVeigh and a 2nd round pick in the 2012 Bantam Draft. The trade deadline is January 10.

Season Series: The Pats have taken all three meetings so far this season. They handed the Kings two of their three home loses on the season. Last time out Jordan Weal scored the game winner on a breakway with no time on the clock to snap the Oil Kings 11 game win streak. This is the fourth and final meeting between the clubs this season.

Next Up: The Oil Kings return home after the game and open a three game stand Wednesday against Lethbridge. The Pats play the third game of their four game homestand Wednesday when they host Prince Albert.

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (22)
REG- Jordan Weal (21)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (60)
REG- Weal (58)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (22)
REG- Matt Hewitt (19)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (88)
REG- Art Bidlevskii (75)

Drafted:

EDM- Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

REG- Jordan Weal- LA Kings (3rd, 2010), Brandon Davidson- Oilers (6th, 2010), Ricard Blidstrand- Philadelphia Flyers (7th, 2010)

Injury Report:

EDM:#15, David Stephens, Upper body, 1 month +
#21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, 1 month +

REG: #3, Brandon Underwood, Lower body, 2 weeks

Players away at International Tournaments:

EDM: Mark Pysyk (Canada WJHC), Martin Gernat (Slovakia WJHC), Kristians Pelss (Latvia WJHC), Curtis Lazar, Mason Geertsen, Tristan Jarry (Team Pacific U17)

REG: Morgan Klimchuk, Kyle Burroughs (Team Pacific U17)

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is tied for 4th in league scoring (60), Dylan Wruck is 11th (50). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied for 10th in rookie scoring (25), Curtis Lazar is tied for 15th (19). Gernat is also tied for 14th in scoring amongst defencemen. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 4th in GAA (2.40), and is tied for 2nd in wins (22). The Oil Kings have the second rated PK in the league, their PP is 3rd. For Regina, Jordan Weal is 7th in league scoring (58). Matt Hewitt is 8th in goals against average (2.70). Morgan Klimchuk is 12th in rookie scoring (24), Dominick Volek is tied for 17th (18). This is the fourth and final meeting between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 12:45, the puck drops at 1:00 MT on the Team 1260.

GDB #38 @ Brandon

2011-12-30T15:47:00.001-07:00

Oil Kings (37 24-9-1-3) vs Wheat Kings (37 21-14-1-1)

The Oil King`s continue their four game swing through the East division tonight in Brandon. Edmonton fell 4-3 in a shootout on Wednesday night in Moose Jaw, in a fantastic back and forth hockey game. Michael St. Croix and Rhett Rachinski had a goal and an assist each, Laurent Brossoit made 32 stops. Tyler Maxwell scored to tie the game with 2:20 left in regulation.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

The Wheat Kings wrap up a four game homestand in which they have gone 2-1. On Wednesday they edged the Regina Pats 3-2 in overtime on Ryley Miller`s third goal of the year. Next up the Wheaties head to Saskatoon for a New Year`s Day game, while the Oil Kings face the Pats that afternoon. Look for the Wheat Kings to wear their vintage uniforms tonight as well.

A couple more trades in the WHL to mention as we approach the January 10 deadline. The Red Deer Rebels acquired 19 year old forward Charles Inglis from the Prince George Cougars in exchange for 18 year old forward Dalton Siwak and a 3rd round pick in the 2012 Bantam Draft. The Rebels also dealt 18 year old forward Locke Muller and 18 year old defenceman Matthew Pufahl to the Blades for 17 year old defenceman Devin Fafard and a 7th round pick in the 2012 Bantam Draft.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Players to watch:

Edmonton: Rhett Rachinski. The 20 year old South Side Athletic Club product is having a great season as an overager. Rachinski has seen his role increase this year, playing on the top power play unit, killing penalties and taking all the team's key draws. He has a career high 12 goals on the season, and has equalled his career high 26 points he posted last year. He is riding a three game point streak (2-3-5) and centres the Kings effective energy line featuring fellow 20 year old Jordan Peddle and Klarc Wilson.

Photo: WheatKings.com

Brandon: Jason Swryipa. With Mark Stone away at the World Junior Championships Swryipa has stepped onto the top line for the Wheaties along with Michael Ferland and Brendan Walker. The 18 year old Cochrane native is also being used in a PK role for the first time in his career. Tonight he will play his 110th straight game for the Wheat Kings.

Season Series: The teams have split the previous two meetings this year. Brandon won at home 3-2 on October 29. The Oil Kings replied with a 7-3 win in Edmonton. The Wheaties are back in Edmonton on January 27th.

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (20), Tyler Maxwell (20)

BDN- Mark Stone (27)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (57)

BDN- Stone (65)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (17)
BDN- Corbin Boes (11)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (88)
BDN- Ryley Miller (67)

Drafted:

Mark Pysyk, TSN.ca

Mark Stone, TSN.ca

EDM- Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

BDN- Michael Ferland- Flames (5th round, 2010), Mark Stone- Ottawa Senators (6th, 2010), Darian Dziurzynski- Phoenix Coyotes (5th, 2011) Jordan Fransoo- Senators (7th, 2011), Brandon Anderson signed free agent- Washington Capitals.

Injury Report:

EDM: #15, David Stephens, Upper body, week to week
#21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, 1 month +

BRN: #1, Corbin Boes, Upper body, 1 month+

Players away at International Tournaments:

EDM: Mark Pysyk (Canada WJHC), Martin Gernat (Slovakia WJHC), Kristians Pelss (Latvia WJHC), Curtis Lazar, Mason Geertsen, Tristan Jarry ( Team Pacific, U17)

MJ: Mark Stone (Canada WJHC), Alessio Bertaggia (Switzerland WJHC), Ayrton Nikkel (Team Pacific U17)

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is tied for 5th in league scoring (57), Dylan Wruck is tied for 11th (47). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied for 10th in rookie scoring (25), Curtis Lazar is 16th (19 points). Gernat is also tied for 13th in scoring amongst defencemen. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 5th in GAA (2.45), and tied for 2nd in wins (21). For Brandon, Mark Stone leads the WHL in scoring (65), Michael Ferland is 11th (49). Alessio Bertaggia is 3rd in rookie scoring (34). Ryan Pulock (36) and Eric Roy (33) are 1-2 in scoring amongst defencemen. This is the third of four meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 6:15, the puck drops at 6:30 MT on the Team 1260.

GDB #37 @ Moose Jaw

2011-12-28T11:42:00.000-07:00

Oil Kings (36 24-9-1-2) @ Warriors (35 22-9-3-1)

The top two teams in the WHL's Eastern Conference meet for the third time this season tonight at Mosiac Place in Moose Jaw. The Oil Kings are coming off a 7-2 win in Saskatoon last night. Michael St. Croix, Tyler Maxwell and Klarc Wilson all posted three points (1-2-3) in the victory. It was a bit of a sloppy game early, with both teams playing their first game back since the Christmas break. Goaltending was a huge factor as once again Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit was outstanding stopping 43 of 45 shots. Brossoit also set the franchise record for wins in a season with 21. He passes Torrie Jung who won 20 in '08-'09. The game marked the official halfway point in the season for Edmonton. The Oil Kings have won 12 of their last 13 games.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

The Warriors will play their first game after the Christmas break tonight. They were hot heading into the week off winning three in a row and four of their last five. Moose Jaw has a six point lead over Brandon atop the East Division. They will be without leading scorer Quinton Howden who will suit up alongside Oil King captain Mark Pysyk for Team Canada tonight against the Czech Republic in the World Junior Hockey Championship. Due to that game on the Team 1260, tonight's Oil King/Warrior matchup can only be heard online at www.theteam1260.com.

There was a trade today as well in the WHL. Prince Albert sent 18 year old goalie Eric Williams and 18 year old forward Todd Fiddler to Spokane in exchange for 19 year old centre Anthony Bardaro, 18 year old goalie Luke Lee-Kinght and a 5th round pick in the 2012 Bantam Draft. The WHL trade deadline is January 10.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Players to watch:

Edmonton: Mitch Moroz. Moroz is on a roll for the Oil Kings as of late. He has goals in three straight games, including scoring the team's teddy bear goal against Calgary before the break. Moroz has moved up to play on the club's second line with TJ Foster and Stephane Legault. The 17 year old, Calgary product has shown he can play anywhere in the lineup, and contribute in different ways. He has seven goals and ten points along with 66 PIMS on the season.

Photo: WHL.ca

Moose Jaw: Justin Kirsch. The 19 year old was picked up from Calgary this year and has become a key offensive component. Kirsch has picked up 14 points in 12 games as a Warrior, including six goals in his last ten games. He was acquired along with 20 year old Kenton Miller from the Hitmen in exchange for Collin Bowman, Joey Kornelson and a 4th round pick in the 2012 Bantam Draft.

Season Series: The Oil Kings have won both meetings between the clubs this season. They came from behind to win 3-1 at Mosiac Place on October 7th, and won a tight 2-1 affair at Rexall Place on October 19th. Griffin Reinhart scored both goals in Edmonton. Quinton Howden did not play in either game for the Warriors. The teams round out their four game season series March 7th in Edmonton.

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (19), Tyler Maxwell (19)

MJ- Quinton Howden (14)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (55)

MJ- Howden, Sam Fioretti (29)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (21)
MJ- Luke Siemens (18)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (88)
MJ- Cody Beach (99)

Drafted:

Mark Pysyk. Photo: TSN.ca

Quinton Howdon. Photo: TSN.ca

MJ- Dylan McIlrath- Rangers (1st, 2010), Quinton Howden- Florida Panthers(1st, 2010), Cody Beach- St. Louis Blues (5th, 2010), Kendall McFaull-Winnipeg Jets (6th, 2010), Joel Edmundson- Blues (2nd, 2011)

Injury Report:

EDM:#15, David Stephens, Upper body, week to week
#21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, 1 month +

MJ: #4, Morgan Rielly, Lower body, 1 month +

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Players away at International Tournaments:

EDM: Mark Pysyk (Canada WJHC), Martin Gernat (Slovakia WJHC), Kristians Pelss (Latvia WJHC), Curtis Lazar, Mason Geertsen, Tristan Jarry ( Team Pacific, U17)

MJ: Quinton Howden (Canada WJHC), Torrin White (Team Pacific U17), Carter Hansen (Team West U17)

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is tied for 5th in league scoring (55), Dylan Wruck is tied for 11th (46). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied for 10th in rookie scoring in the WHL (25), Curtis Lazar is 15th (19). Gernat is 13th in scoring amongst defencemen. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 4th in GAA (2.44), and is 2nd in wins (20). The Oil Kings have the second rated PK in the league, their PP is 3rd. For Moose Jaw, Tyler Vanscourt is tied for 17th in scoring amongst defencemen. Luke Siemens is 6th in GAA (2.47). This is the third of four meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 5:45, the puck drops at 6:00 MT on the Team 1260.com.

GDB #36 @ Saskatoon

2011-12-27T14:34:00.003-07:00

Oil Kings (35 23-9-1-2) @ Blades (35 20-14-0-1)

The Oil Kings hit the road in Saskatoon tonight to face the Blades. It is the Kings first road game since November 23 when they visited Lethbridge. Edmonton wrapped up the first half of the WHL season with an 11 game homestand, going 10-1. They lost their last game out 6-5 to the Regina Pats on a last second breakaway goal by Jordan Weal. Edmonton opens up their four game World Junior road trip, which stops in Moose Jaw, Brandon, and Regina after tonight. Three new faces will be in the lineup for the Kings, who have six players away at either the World Juniors or U-17s. Ryan Aasman, Braeden Johnson and Brendan Jensen will suit up for Edmonton. Aasman is a WHL veteran with stops in Prince Albert, Seattle, Swift Current and Medicine Hat. He is currently playing for the Spruce Grove Saints of the AJHL. Fellow Saint, Brendan Jensen will be the emergency backup goaltender. He has played parts of three seasons with the Vancouver Giants. Johnson has experience with Saskatoon, posting ten points in 62 games with the Blades. He is now playing for the Battlefords North Stars of the SJHL.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

The Blades finished up the first half of the season on a three game losing skid. They have only won two of their last ten outings. They are coming off a 5-1 defeat at the hands of the Kelowna Rockets. Al three of the loses were at the Credit Union Centre.

Photo: Edmonton Sun

Players to watch:

Edmonton: Cody Corbett. The just turned 18 year old Corbett will play his 20th WHL game tonight. He will be relied upon heavily on this road trip with defenders away for the Kings. Corbett has been a solid addition for Edmonton, adding a big shot, physical presence, and a smooth transition game to an already deep defensive core. Corbett has posted three goals and 13 points and is plus six on the year.

Photo: Sheri Lamb/Prince Albert Daily Herald

Saskatoon: Adam Todd. The backup goaltender will be thrust into the starter's role with Andrey Makarov representing Russia at the World Juniors. Todd has played just seven games over two years for the Blades. He was pulled 3:20 into his last start after giving up two goals on three shots. He faired well in his appearance against the Oil Kings earlier this month, allowing a goal on seven shots in a relief of Makarov.

Season Series: The teams have split their previous two meeting this year. The Blades downed Edmonton 5-1 on October 8th in Saskatoon, while the Kings picked up an 8-3 win at Rexall December 4th. The final matchup in March 4th in Edmonton.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (18), Tyler Maxwell (18)

SAS- Josh Nicholls (20)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (52)

SAS- Matej Stransky (36)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (20)
SAS- Andrey Makarov (18)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (76)
SAS- Lukas Sutter (78)

Drafted:

Laurent Brossoit. Photo: Jason Franson/Edmonton Jou

SAS- Josh Nicholls- Toronto Maple Leafs (7th, 2010), Duncan Siemens- Colorado Avalanche (1st, 2011), Darren Dietz- Montreal Canadiens (5th, 2011), Matej Stransky- Dallas Stars (6th, 2011)

Injury Report:

EDM:#15, David Stephens, Upper body, week to week
#21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, 1 month +

SAS: #20, Josh Nicholls, week to week
#27, Brent Benson, day to day

Players away at International Tournaments:

EDM: Mark Pysyk (Canada WJHC), Martin Gernat (Slovakia WJHC), Kristians Pelss (Latvia WJHC), Curtis Lazar, Mason Geertsen, Tristan Jarry ( Team Pacific, U17)

REG: Andrey Makarov (Russia WJHC), Nick Zajac (Team West, U17)

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is 8th in league scoring (52), Dylan Wruck is tied for 13th (45). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied for 10th in rookie scoring in the WHL (25), Curtis Lazar is 15th (19). Gernat is also tied for 12th in scoring amongst defencemen. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 4th in GAA (2.45), and is tied for 2nd in wins (20). The Oil Kings have the second rated PK in the league, their PP is 3rd. The Oil Kings have not won in Saskatoon since September 25, 2009. This is the third of four meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 5:45, the puck drops at 6:00 MT on the Team 1260.

GDB #35 vs Regina

2011-12-18T02:47:00.003-07:00

Oil Kings (33 22-8-1-2) vs Regina Pats (36 18-15-2-1)

The first half of the season wraps up for the Oil Kings this afternoon at Rexall Place. The Kings continue to roll, coming off a 2-1 win over the Hitmen on Saturday night. Mitch Moroz scored the teddy bear goal to tie the hockey game late in the first. TJ Foster scored on the power play in the second and the Kings closed the door from there. The win pushes the Oil Kings run to 11 straight wins, 10 of them on home ice. They have 15 straight home games.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

The Pats will be playing their third game in two and half days. They downed Calgary 3-2 on Friday, before losing 2-1 in Red Deer last night. Jack Rodewald score the lone goal. Jordan Weal had a goal and assist against the Hitmen.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Players to watch:

Edmonton: TJ Foster. The 19 year old forward has been one of the Oil Kings most consistent players this season. Foster has 16 goals and 37 points on the season so far and is riding a seven game point streak heading into this afternoon. Foster's speed and finishing ability is attracting a lot of attention from scouts as the season progresses.

Regina: Matt Hewitt. The 19 year old guardian is the backbone of Regina's first half success. Hewitt was down right sensational in the Pats two victories over the Oil Kings this season. He has been a rock in goal for the Pats, after being an afterthought heading into last season. Hewitt earned a backup role last year and wrestled the starter's job away from Damien Ketlo. This year he is the Pats go to guy between the pipes.

Season Series: The Pats have taken both meetings so far this season. They handed the Kings one of their two home loses on the season 6-3 in October, before winning 4-1 at the Brandt Centre in Regina a couple weeks later. The teams will hook up again after on New Years Day in Regina.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (18), Tyler Maxwell (18)

REG- Jordan Weal (18)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (50)

REG- Weal (51)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (20)
REG- Matt Hewitt (17)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (76)
REG- Art Bidlevskii (71)

Drafted:

Michael St. Croix

REG- Jordan Weal- LA Kings (3rd, 2010), Brandon Davidson- Oilers (6th, 2010), Ricard Blidstrand- Philadelphia Flyers (7th, 2010)

Injury Report:

EDM:#15, David Stephens, Upper body, week to week
#21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, 1 month +

REG: #3, Brandon Underwood, Lower body, day to day
#36, Nathan Zimbaluk, Upper body, day to day

Players away at International Tournaments:

EDM: Mark Pysyk (Canada U20), Martin Gernat (Slovakia U20)

REG:

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is tied for 8th in league scoring (50), Dylan Wruck is15th (43). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied for 10th in rookie scoring in the WHL, Curtis Lazar is tied for 15th (18). Gernat is also 12th in scoring amongst defencemen. Gernat has left to attend the camp for Team Slovkia for the upcoming World Junior Hockey Championships. Captain Mark Pysyk will play for Team Canada. Kristians Pelss has been named to the Latvian preliminary roster. Curtis Lazar, Mason Geertsen, and Tristan Jarry will play for Team Pacific at the U-17 Challenge in Windsor. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 3rd in GAA (2.33), and is tied for 2nd in wins (20). The Oil Kings have the second rated PK in the league, their PP is 4th. For Regina, Jordan Weal is 7th in league scoring (51). Matt Hewitt is 8th in goals against average (2.68). Morgan Klimchuk is 14th in rookie scoring (21), Dominick Volek is tied for 15 (18). Kyle Burroughs and Morgan Klimchuk will play for Team Pacific at the U-17 Challenge. This is the third of four meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 1:45, the puck drops at 2:00 on the Team 1260.

GDB #34 vs Calgary

2011-12-17T12:06:00.001-07:00

Oil Kings (33 22-8-1-2) vs Calgary Hitmen (34 17-14-2-1)

The Oil Kings and the Hitmen hook up for the third time this month at Rexall Place tonight. The Kings took the previous two meetings by a combined score of 12-3. Edmonton is looking to push their winning streak to 11, coming off a 6-3 win over the Victoria Royals on Wednesday night. Once again Michael St. Croix led the way with a goal and three assists. Tonight also marks the annual Teddy Bear toss game at Rexall as well.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

The Hitmen lost a tight 3-2 game last night at home against the Regina Pats. Calgary has lost four of their last six, but did pick up a point in an overtime loss to Lethbridge a couple nights back.

Players to watch:

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Edmonton: Keegan Lowe. The 18 year old, Carolina Hurricane prospect, will likely face the top players from the Hitmen tonight. He has been paired as of late with Griffin Reinhart and the duo will be relied upon heavily in the coming games with both Mark Pysyk and Martin Gernat at World Juniors. Lowe is adapting to playing the right side as well. Look for him to be a physical force tonight for the Kings.

Photo: Mike Drew/Calgary Sun

Calgary: Greg Chase. The 16 year old, first year Hitman, has been impressive in his visits to Rexall Place this season. The Sherwood Park product, a teammate of Kings defender Mason Geertsen last season, has a goal and ten points this season in a mainly third line role. He figures to be a big part of the Hitmen in the future, and has shown playmaking ability in the two games against Edmonton this year.

Season Series: The Oil Kings thave won both games by scores of 6-1, and 6-2, both at Rexall Place. This is the final meeting this season in the City of Champions. The teams will play in Calgary three times in the new year.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (18), Tyler Maxwell (18)

CGY- Victor Rask (16)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (50)

CGY- Cody Sylvester (36)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (19)
CGY- Chris Driedger (9)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (72)
CGY- Spencer Humphries (70)

Drafted:

Kristians Pelss

Victor Rask

CGY- Jimmy Bubnick- Atlanta Thrashers (6th, 2009), Brooks Macek- Detroit Red Wings (6th, 2010), Victor Rask- Hurricanes (2nd, 2011), Alex Roach signed free agent (Los Angeles Kings)

Injury Report:

EDM:#15, David Stephens, Upper body, week to week
#21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, 1 month +

CGY: None

Players away at International Tournaments:

EDM: Mark Pysyk (Canada U20), Martin Gernat (Slovakia U20)

CGY: Victor Rask (Sweden U20)

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is 8th in league scoring (50), Dylan Wruck is tied for 14th (43). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied for 9th in rookie scoring in the WHL, Curtis Lazar is tied for 19th (17 points). Gernat is also 11th in scoring amongst defencemen. Gernat has left to attend the camp for Team Slovkia for the upcoming World Junior Hockey Championships. Captain Mark Pysyk will play for Team Canada. Kristians Pelss has been named to the Latvian preliminary roster. Curtis Lazar, Mason Geertsen, and Tristan Jarry will play for Team Pacific at the U-17 Challenge in Windsor. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 3rd in GAA (2.38), and is tied for 2nd in wins (19). The Oil Kings have the second rated PK in the league, their PP is 4th. For Calgary, Victor Rask is 7th in rookie scoring (29). Rask has been named to Team Sweden for the World Juniors. Greg Chase will play for Team Pacific at the U-17 Challenge. This is the third of six meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 on the Team 1260.

Oil Kings Christmas video

2011-12-16T22:16:00.002-07:00

The Oil King vets get in the Christmas spirit with this video. Includes cameos from equipment manager Rogan Dean, athletic trainer Brian Cheeseman, and assistant coach Jesse Pearson. What do you think?

GDB #33 vs Victoria

2011-12-14T12:16:00.001-07:00

Oil Kings (31 20-8-1-2) vs Royals (34 13-18-1-2)

After a few days of practice it is gameday once again for the Edmonton Oil Kings. It is the second and final meeting of the year between the Oil Kings and Victoria Royals. The Kings are red hot, winning their past nine straight. Last time out they downed the Prince Albert Raiders 5-3. TJ Foster had a pair of goals, and Dylan Wruck chipped in with four assists.

Photo: WHL

Earlier today Oil King Captain Mark Pysyk found out he made Team Canada for the upcoming World Junior Hockey Championships.

Photo: Victoria Royals

The Royals have posted tree victories in their past 16 outings. They have, however, picked up three of a possible four points in their last two games. This is their second game of a six game road trip which opened on Saturday in Seattle. The Royals have had the past few days off and have been staying in Calgary, taking in some of Canada's World Junior Camp.

Players to watch:

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Edmonton: Laurent Brossoit. The Oil Kings goaltender has been very steady as of late. During this streak he, along with fellow netminder Tristan Jarry, has been fantastic especially early in games. Brossoit, a Calgary Flame draft choice, posted his first shut out of the year against Medicine Hat also has three assists on the season. While the team in front of him have scored 54 goals during the nine game win streak, the Oil King 'tendys have only allowed 15.

Photo: Victoria Royals

Victoria: Jamie Crooks. The 19 year old forward is starting to discover his offensive touch in recent games for the Royals. He picked up a hat trick in the Royals last win, 8-5 over Lethbridge. Crooks was named the Royals player of the month for November, he posted four goals and nine points in 11 games.

Season Series: The Oil Kings took the first matchup this season 8-2 in Victoria. The Oil Kings scored early and often in the matchup. Curtis Lazar tallied 33 seconds into the game and the Kings scored four second period goals to blow the game open. Michael St. Croix posted four points.

Photo: Victoria Royals

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (17), Tyler Maxwell (17)

VIC- Kevin Sundher (21)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (46)

VIC- Sundher (52)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (18)
VIC- Keith Hamilton (12)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (65)
VIC- Tim Traber (74)

Drafted:

Photo: SBNation.com

VIC- Kevin Sundher- Sabres (3rd, 2010), Tyler Stahl- Hurricanes (6th, 2010).

Injury Report:

EDM: #15, David Stephens, Upper body, week to week
#21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, 1 month +
#27, Curtis Lazar Upper body, day to day

VIC: #6, Jesse Zgraggen, Upper body, day to day
#7, Tyler Stahl, Upper body, 1 month +

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is tied for 8th in league scoring (46), Dylan Wruck is tied for 14th (41). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied for 9th in rookie scoring in the WHL (24), Curtis Lazar is tied for 17th (17 points). Gernat is also tied in 10th in scoring amongst defencemen. Gernat will attend the camp for Team Slovkia for the upcoming World Junior Hockey Championships. Captain Mark Pysyk will play for Team Canada. Kristians Pelss has been named to the Latvian preliminary roster. Curtis Lazar, Mason Geertsen, and Tristan Jarry will play for Team Pacific at the U-17 Challenge in Windsor. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 3rd in GAA (2.35), and is 3rd in wins (18). The Oil Kings have the second rated PK in the league, their PP is 4th. For Victoria, Kevin Sundher is 6th in scoring (52). Loga Nelson is 2nd in rookie scoring (35). Keegan Kanzig will play for Team Pacific at the U-17 Challenge. Former Oil King Robin Soudek and Taylor Crunk will both miss the game due to suspension. Victoria has allowed a league high 166 goals against this season. This is the second of two meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 on the Team 1260.

WHL Top Ten #11

2011-12-12T21:20:00.004-07:00

This is a poll of several Team 1260 members who follow the WHL closely and is compiled each Monday of the WHL season.

Week #11 Review

2011-12-12T19:38:00.000-07:00

Review: The Oil Kings continue to roll going 3-0 for a third straight week and have won nine consecutive games for the first time in modern franchise history. The week opened with convincing 6-2 win over Calgary, the second time the Oil Kings had scored six against Calgary in less than a week. They followed that up with a huge 7-3 win over Brandon. TJ Foster led the way with two goals and two assists. The week ended with a sloppy 5-3 win over the Prince Albert Raiders. The Oil Kings did not bring their 'A' game but played well enough to push their win streak to nine. The Kings have outscored their opponents 54-18 during the streak.

Last Week: Tuesday Dec. 6- Win 6-2 vs Spokane

Thursday Dec. 8- Win 7-3 vs Brandon

Saturday Dec. 10- Win 5-3 vs Prince Albert

Upcoming: The final week of the first half of the season kicks off on Wednesday night when the Victoria Royals make their first appearance at Rexall Place. Edmonon took the first matchup of the clubs 8-2 on Vancouver Island. The Hitmen make their third trip to the Rex on Saturday. The game is the Kings 5th annual teddy bear toss night. The Regina Pats look to improve to 3-0 against Edmonton on Sunday afternoon.

Oil Kings Teddy Bear toss uniforms unveiled at Rexall Place on Monday.

Leaders: Goals: Michael St. Croix, Tyler Maxwell (17)

Assists: Dylan Wruck (31)

Points: St. Croix (46)

PIMS: Keegan Lowe (65)

Wins: Laurent Brossoit (18)

Firsts: Game- Martin Gernat, Ashton Sautner, Cole Benson @ Red Deer, Sept 25. Tristan Jarry @ Saskatoon, Oct 8. Cody Corbett @ Brandon Oct 29, Brandon Baddock @ Lethbridge Nov. 19.

Goal- Gernat @ Red Deer, Sept 25,Curtis Lazar vs Medicine Hat Sept 30 (first regular season goal, scored in playoffs Mar 31, 2011), Mitch Moroz @ Swift Current Oct. 9, Ashton Sautner vs Portland Oct 21, Cody Corbett @ Victoria Nov. 8, Cole Benson vs Prince Albert Nov. 18.

Point- Gernat, Sautner @ Red Deer Sept 25, Tristan Sieben @ Medicine Hat Oct 1, Laurent Brossoit vs Regina Oct. 14, Corbett @ Victoria Nov 8, Benson, Mason Geertsen vs Prince Albert Nov 18.

Win- Tristan Jarry Oct 26 vs Everett.

Streaks: Dylan Wruck 8 games (4-12-16), Michael St. Croix 7 games (9-10-19), Tyler Maxwell 5 games (5-4-9), Rhett Rachinski 3 games (2-1-3), Mark Pysyk 3 games (1-4-5)

Notes: Edmonton is 8-0 on their long 11 game homestand. Oil Kings Captain Mark Pysyk is in Calgary at the Hockey Canada Selection Camp for the World Junior Hockey Championship. Martin Gernat leaves on Thursday for the Slovakian camp, Kristians Pelss leaves after the game Sunday for Latvia's camp. The Kings power play is up to 5th in the league at 25.6 percent, their penalty kill is second overall at 83.1 percent. The Oil Kings are first in the Eastern conference with 45 points.

Drafted: Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)
Schedule:

Tuesday-

Wednesday- vs Victoria Royals, Rexall Place, 7pm

Thursday-

Friday-

Saturday- Calgary Hitmen, Rexall Place, 7pm

Sunday- vs Regina Pats, Rexall Place, 2pm

Monday- Chrismas Break

GDB #32 vs Prince Albert

2011-12-10T14:41:00.001-07:00

Oil Kings (31 20-8-1-2) vs Raiders (33 9-21-1-2)

The Oil Kings return to action tonight at Rexall Place against the Prince Albert Raiders. The Kings are leading the Eastern Conference with 43 points, while the Raiders are in the cellar with 21 points. Edmonton is coming off a big 7-3 win over the Wheat Kings on Thursday night, and are looking for their ninth straight win tonight. The Oil Kings have outscored their opponents 49-15 during the streak.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

The Raiders have been hot as of late as well, winning three of their last four, and coming off a shoot out loss to Calgary last night. The Raiders built up a 3-0 lead, before Calgary scored four straight goals to take the lead. Mark McNeill evened the score on a penalty shot sending the game to OT. The Raiders will be without McNeill tonight as he is down in Calgary at the World Junior Selection Camp, along with Oil King captain Mark Pysyk.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Players to watch:

Edmonton: Griffem Reinhart. Reinhart has been a force lately for the Kings. 'The Big Cat' as he is called has five points in his last three games, and has equalled his goal total of last season with six. He has been a big part of the Oil Kings recent power play success, and with Mark Pysyk gone for the World Junior camp, he will be facing the other teams top offensive players with more regularity.

Brandon: Mike Winther. In his second WHL season the 17 year old Winther has begun to discover his offensive game. He has 13 goals and 23 points in 33 games this season for the Raiders. He has points in his last three games, including a five point outing against the Regina Pats. With McNeill gone, look for Winther to receive more offensive minutes for the young Raider team.

Season Series: The Oil Kings are 2-0 against PA this season. Edmonton posted a 4-1 win in PA early in the season and knocked off the Raiders 4-3 at Rexall back in November. The teams will play once more in Prince Albert on January 21st.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (16), Tyler Maxwell (16)

PA- Justin Maylan (15)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (43)

PA- Maylan (37)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (18)
PA- Eric Williams (8)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (63)
PA- Tyler Yaworski (91)

Drafted:

PA- Mark McNeill- Chicago Blackhawks (1st, 2011), Harrison Ruopp- Phoenix Coyotes (3rd, 2011). Kellan Tochkin signed free agent- Vancouver Canucks.

Injury Report:

EDM: #15, David Stephens, Upper body, week to week
#21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, 1 month +

PA: #17, Todd Fiddler, Lower body, day to day
#20, Shane Danyluk, Upper body, 1 month +

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is 11th in league scoring (43), Dylan Wruck is tied for 15th (37). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied for 8th in rookie scoring in the WHL (24), Curtis Lazar is tied for 16th (17 points). Gernat is also tied in 7th in scoring amongst defencemen. Gernat will attend the camp for Team Slovkia for the upcoming World Junior Hockey Championships. Captain Mark Pysyk is at the selection camp for Team Canada. Kristians Pelss has been named to the Latvian preliminary roster. Curtis Lazar, Mason Geertsen, and Tristan Jarry will play for Team Pacific at the U-17 Challenge in Windsor. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 3rd in GAA (2.35), and is 3rd in wins (18). The Oil Kings have the top rated PK in the league, their PP is 4th. For Prince Albert, Justin Maylan is tied for 15th in scoring (37). Josh Morrisey is tied for 18th in rookie scoring (16). Mark McNeill is at Canada's camp for the World Junior Hockey Championship. Jonas Knutsen will represent Norway in the B-Pool at the World Juniors. Josh Morissey will play for Team Pacific at the U-17 Challenge. PA has allowed a league high 11 SH goals this year. This is the third of four meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 on the Team 1260.

GDB #31 vs Brandon

2011-12-08T13:23:00.001-07:00

Oil Kings (30 19-8-1-2) vs Wheat Kings (31 18-11-1-1)

Just one game on the WHL schedule tonight, and it's at Rexall Place featuring the battle of the Kings. The Oil Kings look for their eighth straight win tonight. Edmonton is coming off another big victory over the Calgary Hitmen, 6-2 on Tuesday night. Griffen Reinhart led the way with three points, Dylan Wruck and Tyler Maxwell both extended their point streaks to nine games. Stephane Legault returned to the lineup and registered a goal and an assist. The Oil Kings have scored at least four goals in each of their last four games, and now sit fourth in goals for in the WHL, they have also allowed the second least amount of goals against in the league.

The Wheat Kings kick off a three game Alberta road swing tonight. They are coming off a shut out loss against Regina on Sunday. The Wheaties are sitting in fifth in the Eastern Conference with 38 points, three behind the East leading Oil Kings. They have struggled a bit as of late with two wins in their last six games.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Players to watch:

Edmonton: Dylan Wruck. The Kings leading scorer from last season found his grove as the calendar turned to December. Wruck is on a nine game point streak, and has been a key cog for the Kings. Along with linemates Michael St. Croix and Tyler Maxwell, Wruck has re-emerged as dominant offensive force in the WHL. His addition on the point on the power play has led the Kings unit to the fourth best PP in the league.

Brandon: Mark Stone. Stone continues to lead both the Wheat Kings and the WHL in scoring as we approach the midway point of the season. The Ottawa Senator prospect has 25 goals and 61 points on the season. Stone will be without his linemate Michael Ferland who is serving the final game of his three game suspension. Stone figures to play a major role for Team Canada in the upcoming World Junior Hockey Championships.

Season Series: The Wheat Kings took the first meeting this year in Brandon 3-2 on October 29th. The teams will play four times this season, the next matchup coming in Manitoba on December 30th. The Wheaties are back in Edmonton on January 27th.

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (16), Tyler Maxwell (16)

BDN- Mark Stone (25)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (41)

BDN- Stone (61)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (17)
BDN- Corbin Boes (11)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (63)
BDN- Darian Dziurzynski, Ryley Miller (56)

Drafted:

Injury Report:

EDM: #15, David Stephens, Upper body, week to week
#21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, 1 month +

BRN: #21, Tyrel Seaman, Upper body, 1 week

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is 12th in league scoring (41), Dylan Wruck is tied for 17th (35). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied for 6th in rookie scoring in the WHL (24), Curtis Lazar is tied for 15th (17 points). Gernat is also 6th in scoring amongst defencemen. Gernat will attend the camp for Team Slovkia for the upcoming World Junior Hockey Championships. Captain Mark Pysyk has been invited to participate in the selection camp for Team Canada. Kristians Pelss has been named to the Latvian preliminary roster. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 3rd in GAA (2.33), and tied for 3rd in wins (17). For Brandon, Mark Stone leads the WHL in scoring 61 points, Michael Ferland is tied for 9th (42). Alessio Bertaggia is tied for 4th in rookie scoring (27). Ryan Pulock (32) and Eric Roy (31) are 1-2 in scoring amongst defencemen. Stone and Ferland have been invited to Canada's camp for the World Junior Hockey Championship. Bertaggia has been invited to Switzerland's pre-tourny camp. This is the second of four meetings between the two clubs this year. Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 on the Team 1260.

GDB #30 vs Calgary

2011-12-06T14:30:00.001-07:00

Oil Kings (27 16-8-1-2) vs Calgary Hitmen (26 14-10-1-1)

The battle of Alberta continues at Rexall Place tonight at the Oil Kings face the Hitmen for the second time in a week. The Oil Kings have won six straight games for the first time in modern franchise history, including a 6-1 win over the Hitmen on Thursday night. Edmonton is coming off an 8-3 win over over the Saskatoon Blades, in which they scored five power play goals.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

The Hitmen are back in Edmonton after splitting a pair of weekend home games. They beat Spokane 3-2 in OT, before dropping a 2-1 decision to Medicine Hat. Chris Driedger started both games, while WHL Goalie of the Month, Brandon Glover last started in Edmonton.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Players to watch:

Edmonton: Mark Pysyk. The Oil King Captain has been playing some of his best hockey since returning to the lineup. He has five points (1-4-5) in the three games. He has been playing steady in his own end, rarely losing a battle, while leading the rush and playing physical too. Pysyk leaves for the Canadian World Junior Camp on Saturday.

Calgary: Victor Rask. The Carolina Hurricane second round pick has enjoyed a solid start to his WHL career. He leads the Hitmen with 15 goals in 29 games, and plays in all key situations. Rask has been named to the Swedish team for the World Junior Hockey Championships.

Season Series: The Oil Kings took the first matchup 6-1 on Thursday night at Rexall Place. The teams will hook up again, December 17, in Edmonton as well. It will be the Oil Kings annual teddy bear toss night. The teams will play three times in Calgary in the new year.

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (16), Tyler Maxwell (16)

CGY- Victor Rask (15)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (41)

CGY- Cody Sylvester (29)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (16)
CGY- Chris Driedger (8)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (61)
CGY- Spencer Humphries (63)

Drafted:

CGY- Jimmy Bubnick- Atlanta Thrashers (6th, 2009), Brooks Macek- Detroit Red Wings (6th, 2010), Victor Rask- Hurricanes (2nd, 2011), Alex Roach signed free agent (Los Angeles Kings)

Injury Report:

EDM: #7, Stephane Legault, Illness, day to day
#15, David Stephens, Upper body, week to week
#21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, 1 month +

CGY: #6, Keaton Lubin, Upper body, week to week
#12, Joe Kornelsen, Upper body, 1 week

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is 11th in league scoring (41), Dylan Wruck is 19th (33). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied for 6th in rookie scoring in the WHL with Calgary's Victor Rask (24 points), Curtis Lazar is tied for 15th (17 points). Gernat is also 5th in scoring amongst defencemen. Gernat has also been named to Team Slovkia for the upcoming World Junior Hockey Championships. Captain Mark Pysyk has been invited to participate in the selection camp for Team Canada. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 3rd in GAA (2.34). This is the second of six meetings between the two clubs this year. They will meet three times in Edmonton before the Christmas break. Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 on the Team 1260.

WHL Top Ten #10

2011-12-05T21:35:00.001-07:00

This is a poll of several Team 1260 members who follow the WHL closely and is compiled each Monday of the WHL season.

Week #10 Review

2011-12-05T12:53:00.001-07:00

Review: The Oil Kings went 3-0 for a second straight week and have won six consecutive games for the first time in modern franchise history. The week opened with an ugly 4-1 win over Spokane, it wasn't a sharp played game by either side, but Edmonton was able to capitalize on their opportunities to post their first ever victory over the Chiefs. They followed that up with back to back wins over the Calgary Hitmen (6-1) and the Saskatoon Blades (8-3). Michael St. Croix continues to lead the way offensively, being named the WHL Player of the Week after posting eight points (3-5-8) in the three games. The Oil Kings went five for six on the power play in the Saskatoon game.

Last Week: Tuesday Nov. 29- Win 4-1 vs Spokane

Thursday Dec. 1- Win 6-1 vs Calgary

Sunday Dec. 4- Win 8-3 vs Saskatoon

Upcoming: The Hitmen look for revenge on Tuesday night when they make their second visit to Rexall Place. Thursday the Oil Kings play the Wheat Kings for the second time this season. Saturday night it is the third of four meetings with the Prince Albert Raiders.

Leaders: Goals: Michael St. Croix, Tyler Maxwell (16)

Assists: St. Croix, Dylan Wruck (25)

Points: St. Croix (41)

PIMS: Keegan Lowe (61)

Wins: Laurent Brossoit (16)

Firsts: Game- Martin Gernat, Ashton Sautner, Cole Benson @ Red Deer, Sept 25. Tristan Jarry @ Saskatoon, Oct 8. Cody Corbett @ Brandon Oct 29, Brandon Baddock @ Lethbridge Nov. 19.

Goal- Gernat @ Red Deer, Sept 25,Curtis Lazar vs Medicine Hat Sept 30 (first regular season goal, scored in playoffs Mar 31, 2011), Mitch Moroz @ Swift Current Oct. 9, Ashton Sautner vs Portland Oct 21, Cody Corbett @ Victoria Nov. 8, Cole Benson vs Prince Albert Nov. 18.

Point- Gernat, Sautner @ Red Deer Sept 25, Tristan Sieben @ Medicine Hat Oct 1, Laurent Brossoit vs Regina Oct. 14, Corbett @ Victoria Nov 8, Benson, Mason Geertsen vs Prince Albert Nov 18.

Win- Tristan Jarry Oct 26 vs Everett.

Streaks: Dylan Wruck 8 games (4-12-16), Michael St. Croix 7 games (9-10-19), Tyler Maxwell 5 games (5-4-9), Rhett Rachinski 3 games (2-1-3), Mark Pysyk 3 games (1-4-5)

Notes: The Kings have welcomed Mark Pysyk and TJ Foster back to the lineup in recent games. Oil Kings Captain Mark Pysyk has earned an invitation to the Hockey Canada Selection Camp for the World Junior Hockey Championship. Martin Gernat has made the Slovakian team, and it expected that Kristians Pelss will once again represent Latvia. The Kings power play is up to 4th in the league at 26.1 percent, their penalty kill is first overall at 83.1 percent. The Oil Kings sit third in the Eastern Conference with 39 points, two back of the Kootenay Ice, the Kings have a game in hand over Kootenay as well.

Drafted: Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

Schedule:

Tuesday- vs Calgary Hitmen, Rexall Place, 7pm

Wednesday-

Thursday- vs Brandon Wheat Kings, Rexall Place, 7pm

Friday-

Saturday- vs Prince Albert Raiders, Rexall Place, 7pm

Sunday-

Monday-

GDB #28 vs Calgary

2011-12-01T13:45:00.001-07:00

Oil Kings (27 16-8-1-2) vs Calgary Hitmen (26 14-10-1-1)

Two of the hottest teams in the WHL collide tonight at Rexall Place. Both the Oil Kings and Hitmen come in tonight on four game win streaks. The Oil Kings continue their 11 game homestand, after defeating the Spokane Chiefs 4-1 on Tuesday night. It wasn't the prettiest game but the Oil Kings were able to capitalize on their chances. Once again Michael St. Croix led the way with 3 points (1-2-3) and Dylan Wruck chipped in a pair of goals. Laurent Brossoit was solid earning his 14th win of the year.

The Hitmen wrap up a five game road trip tonight, they are undefeated so far. They swept through the Eastern division, scoring at least five goals in each game. Calgary won only one of their first six games, but have been moving up the standings ever since.

Players to watch:

Photo: Edmonton Oil Kings

Edmonton: Michael St. Croix. After a bit of a slow start to the season, St. Croix has really elevated his game in recent weeks. He went on a 12 game point streak earlier this season and is riding another five game streak now (7-7-14). The Ranger draft pick has taken over the team lead in goals and points and is knocking on the door of the top ten in the WHL.

Calgary: Jimmy Bubnick. The 20 year old is enjoying a bounce back season thus far this year. After posting 27 points in 60 games last year, Bubnick has 11 goals and 24 points in 26 contests this year. Bubnick was a 6th round selection of the Atlanta Thrashers in 2009.

Last Year: Edmonton was 5-1 against Calgary last season after going winless in six games in '09-'10. Last season Calgary won only 20 games and finished last in the WHL. The year before they led the league with 107 points and made an appearance at the Memorial Cup.

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Michael St. Croix (14)

CGY- Victor Rask (13)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (36)

CGY- Cody Sylvester (28)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (14)
CGY- Brandon Glover, Chris Driedger (7)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (55)
CGY- Spencer Humphries (57)

Drafted:

CGY- Jimmy Bubnick- Atlanta Thrashers (6th, 2009), Brooks Macek- Detroit Red Wings (6th, 2010), Victor Rask- Hurricanes (2nd, 2011), Alex Roach signed free agent (Los Angeles Kings)

Injury Report:

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is11th in league scoring (36). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied for 6th in rookie scoring in the WHL with Calgary's Victor Rask (22 points), Curtis Lazar is 14th (16 points). Gernat is also tied for 6th in scoring amongst defencemen. Gernat has also been named to Team Slovkia for the upcoming World Junior Hockey Championships. Captain Mark Pysyk has been invited to participate in the selection camp for Team Canada. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 3rd in GAA (2.37). This is the first of six meetings between the two clubs this year. They will meet three times in Edmonton before the Christmas break. Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 on the Team 1260.

GDB # 27 vs Spokane

2011-11-29T13:33:00.001-07:00

Oil Kings (26 15-8-1-2) vs Spokane Chiefs (21 11-7-1-2)

Tonight the Oil Kings and Chiefs face off for the only time this season. Edmonton comes into the game riding a three game win streak, coming off a 5-2 win over the Hurricanes on Saturday night. Michael St. Croix and Tyler Maxwell led the way with two goals apiece.

The Chiefs are coming off back to back losses. They fell 5-3 in Portland on Friday and lost at home to Prince George 5-4. Spokane has played a league low 21 games this season, and sit 5th in the Western Conference. They have yet to win on the road this season going 0-4-1-2.

Players to watch:

Edmonton: Cole Benson. The 16 year old Benson has been used in mainly a defensive role so far for the Oil Kings. The South Side Athletic Club product has impressed in that role and is earning more ice time as his rookie season in the WHL progresses. Benson notched his first goal in the WHL a few games back against the Raiders. He also played a larger role last game out against the Hurricanes with a couple players out of the lineup.

Spokane: Brenden Kichton. The New York Islander draft pick is the offensive leader of the Spokane blue line. With the graduation of Jared Cowen to the Ottawa Senators, Kichton has become the go to guy. After an impressive year last season (23 goals, 81 points in 64 games), the Spruce Grove native has drawn a lot of attention. His numbers are off last year's pace (3 goals, 20 points in 21 games) but he has earned an invite to Hockey Canada's upcoming selection camp for the World Junior Championships.

Last Year: Spokane took the lone meeting last year between the two clubs 4-3. It was a very physical game that featured three fights and some huge collisions. Spokane finished third in the West last year with 102 points. They made it all the way to the Western final before bowing out to the Portland Winterhawks in six games. The Oil Kings have never earned a point of the Chiefs (0-4-0-0).

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Tyler Maxwell, Michael St. Croix (13)

SPO- Anthony Bardaro (14)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (33)

SPO- Bardaro (26)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (13)
SPO- Mac Engel (9)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (55)
SPO- Darren Kramer (75)

Drafted:

LET- Brenden Kichton- New York Islanders (5th, 2011), Dominik Uher- Pittsburgh Penguins (5th, 2011), Darren Kramer- Ottawa Senators (6th, 2011)

Injury Report:

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is tied for 12th in league scoring (33). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied for 5th in rookie scoring in the WHL (22 points), Curtis Lazar is 14th (16 points). Gernat is also tied for 5th in scoring amongst defencemen. Gernat has also been named to Team Slovkia for the upcoming World Junior Hockey Championships. Captain Mark Pysyk has been invited to participate in the selection camp for Team Canada. Spokane's Brendan Kichton has also been invited by Canada. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 5th in GAA (2.43). This is the only meeting between the clubs this season. Edmonton has never beat the Chiefs (0-4-0-0). Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 on the Team 1260.

WHL Top Ten #9

2011-11-28T21:30:00.001-07:00

This is a poll of several Team 1260 members who follow the WHL closely and is compiled each Monday of the WHL season.

Week #9 Review

2011-11-28T12:08:00.001-07:00

Review: The Kings got back on track last week going 3-0 in their three games. Things opened up with a big time redemption win in Lethbridge 10-3. Michael St. Croix led the way with a hat trick and five points. Following that game the Kings acquired more offense, picking up 20 year old Tyler Maxwell from the Everett Silvertips. Maxwell payed immediate dividends picking up an assist in a 3-0 shut out over Medicine Hat before registering a pair of goals in a 5-2 win over Lethbridge. Laurent Brossoit made 27 stops for his first shut out of the year, third of his WHL career against the Tigers. On Saturday Michael St. Croix picked up four points (2-2) in the victory over Lethbridge.

Last Week: Wednesday Nov. 23- Win 10-3 @ Lethbridge

Friday Nov. 25- Win 3-0 vs Medicine Hat

Saturday Nov. 26- Win 5-2 vs Lethbridge

Upcoming: The Kings play their lone matchup with the Spokane Chiefs on Tuesday. They also open their six game season series with the upstart Calgary Hitmen on Thursday before meeting Saskatoon Sunday afternoon. All games at Rexall Place.

Leaders: Goals: Michael St. Croix, Tyler Maxwell (13)

Assists: Dylan Wruck (21)

Points: St. Croix (33)

PIMS: Keegan Lowe (55)

Wins: Laurent Brossoit (13)

Firsts: Game- Martin Gernat, Ashton Sautner, Cole Benson @ Red Deer, Sept 25. Tristan Jarry @ Saskatoon, Oct 8. Cody Corbett @ Brandon Oct 29, Brandon Baddock @ Lethbridge Nov. 19.

Goal- Gernat @ Red Deer, Sept 25,Curtis Lazar vs Medicine Hat Sept 30 (first regular season goal, scored in playoffs Mar 31, 2011), Mitch Moroz @ Swift Current Oct. 9, Ashton Sautner vs Portland Oct 21, Cody Corbett @ Victoria Nov. 8, Cole Benson vs Prince Albert Nov. 18.

Point- Gernat, Sautner @ Red Deer Sept 25, Tristan Sieben @ Medicine Hat Oct 1, Laurent Brossoit vs Regina Oct. 14, Corbett @ Victoria Nov 8, Benson, Mason Geertsen vs Prince Albert Nov 18.

Win- Tristan Jarry Oct 26 vs Everett.

Streaks: Dylan Wruck 5 games (2-8-10), Michael St. Croix 4 games (6-5-11), Tyler Maxwell 2 games (2-1-3), Cody Corbett 2 games (0-2-2).

Notes: The Kings have welcomed Griffen Reinhart and Tristan Sieban back to the lineup in recent games. There is anticipation that a couple more of the walking wounded could return this week. Oil Kings Captain Mark Pysyk has earned an invitation to the Hockey Canada Selection Camp for the World Junior Hockey Championship. Martin Gernat has made the Slovakian team, and it expected that Kristians Pelss will once again represent Latvia. The 10 goals the Kings scored in Lethbridge is a new modern franchise record, they had posted nine numerous times. The Kings and Hitmen play three games in 17 days before the Christmas break, all in Edmonton. The Oil Kings are riding their third three game win streak of the season.

Drafted: Mark Pysyk-Buffalo Sabres (1st Round, 2010), Kristians Pelss- Edmonton Oilers (7th, 2010), Keegan Lowe- Carolina Hurricanes (3rd, 2011), Travis Ewanyk- Oilers (3rd, 2011), Michael St. Croix- New York Rangers (4th, 2011), Martin Gernat- Oilers (5th, 2011), Laurent Brossoit- Calgary Flames (6th, 2011)

Schedule:

Tuesday- vs Spokane Chiefs, Rexall Place, 7pm

Wednesday-

Thursday- vs Calgary Hitmen, Rexall Place, 7pm

Friday-

Saturday-

Sunday- vs Saskatoon Blades, Rexall Place, 2pm

Monday-

GDB # 26 vs Lethbridge

2011-11-26T12:48:00.001-07:00

Oil Kings (25 14-8-1-2) vs Hurricanes (26 6-19-0-1)

The Lethbridge Hurricanes make their first appearance at Rexall Place tonight. The Oil Kings are coming off an impressive 3-0 shut out of the Medicine Hat Tigers last night. Dylan Wruck, Michael St. Croix and Ryan Dech tallied for the Kings. Laurent Brossoit made 27 stops for his first shut out of the season.

Meanwhile the Hurricanes are coming off a 5-1 win last night in Red Deer and have won three of their last four. Captain Cam Braes led the way with a pair of goals and an a assist, while Damien Ketlo made 42 saves in the win.

Players to watch:

Photo: Andy Devlin/Edmonton Oil Kings

Edmonton: Mitch Moroz. The 17 year old Calgary product has been effective so far this season in a mostly checking role. Moroz is able to play both ends of the ice, deliver big hits, and chip in some offense. He scored a power play goal last time out against Lethbridge, his third goal of the year. He has seen his minutes increase in recent games and has risen to the challenge. And he has, hands down, the best moustache on the team.

Photo: Prince George Cougars

Lethbridge: Nick Buonassisi. The 19 year old was picked up from Prince George earlier this season. So far as a Hurricane, he has picked up 10 points in 14 games. Buonassisi plays a gritty game, and is replied upon for secondary scoring for the 'Canes. He picked up three points last night in Red Deer.

Season Series: The Oil Kings lead the season series 2-1 so far. This is the third meeting in a calendar week, and the first in Edmonton between the clubs. Edmonton has 5-1 and 10-3 victories while Lethbridge posted a 5-2 win. The teams will play six times this season, and faceoff again January 4th in Edmonton.

Leaders:

Goals- EDM- Kristians Pelss, Tyler Maxwell, Michael St. Croix (11)

LET- Brody Sutter (11)

Points- EDM- St. Croix (29)

LET- Cam Braes (21)

Wins- EDM- Laurent Brossoit (13)
LET- Liam Liston, Damien Ketlo (3)

PIMS- EDM- Keegan Lowe (53)
LET- Graham Hood (59)

Drafted:

LET- Brody Sutter- Carolina Hurricanes (7th, 2011),

Injury Report:

EDM: #3, Mark Pysyk, Upper body, day to day
#7, Stephane Legault, Upper body, 1 week
#15, David Stephens, Upper body, week to week
#16, TJ Foster, Upper body, day to day
#21, Travis Ewanyk, Upper body, 1 month +
#25, Tristan Sieben, Lower body, day to day

LET:#5, Daniel Johnston, Upper body, 1-2 weeks
#15, Michael Sofillas, Upper body, 1 month +
#16, Austin Fyten, Lower body, 1 month +
#26, Max Moline, Lower body, 1 month

Notes: Oil Kings forward Michael St. Croix is 18th in league scoring (29). Defenceman Martin Gernat is tied for 6th in rookie scoring in the WHL (20 points), Curtis Lazar is 12th (16 points). Gernat is also 7th in scoring amongst defencemen. Gernat has also been named to Team Slovkia for the upcoming World Junior Hockey Championships. Oil Kings netminder Laurent Brossoit is 4th in the league in minutes played (1407), and is 5th in GAA (2.43). This is the third of six meetings this season between the clubs, they have met three times this week (November 19, 22, 26). . The Hurricanes are in a six game stretch where they face two teams (Edmonton, Red Deer). Pregame show at 6:45, the puck drops at 7:00 on the Team 1260.