Klippers-Hawks preview

Here we are back at the West Central Events Centre tonight, and the Klippers are looking for revenge for that disappointing loss in Nipawin on Friday.

Tonight is the beginning of a six-game homestand, and you'd have to think the boys want to go out there and give their fans a show. There are an awful lot of people around town asking questions about this losing skid as well as the recent player movement. I'm sure the Klippers would love to put that to bed. But as Rockie Zinger said yesterday, they can't just rely on a home stretch to turn it around. They still have to go out there and get it done.

Nipawin Hawks

Sure, they've been low man on the totem pole for a couple of years, but this Nipawin team has talent. Look no further than ex-Klipper Matthew Spafford along with linemates Tanner Dusyk and Jonathan Ceci. This trio burned Kindersley for three goals on Friday. None of them are making a threat for the league scoring lead, but this is a balanced Hawk attack and they are a huge part of it. Factor in 18-year-old rookie Eli Lichtenwald, who's on fire with 11 goals and 19 points, and these guys can burn you in a few ways.

Nipawin's blueline has been a source of some turmoil this year, as they recently traded captain Cory Hodgins for another defender, Chad Crawford. They also dealt 19-year-old Ryan Curzon earlier in the year. But nasty rearguard Scott Brkich is still there to anchor the troops along with 20-year-old Brentt Becker of Eatonia.

In goal, I only saw Brody Hoffman once or twice last year in a back-up role, so it was tough to get a read on him. He appears to be the guy for now, though. Backup Stephen Klein just turned 17 and gives Nipawin hope for the future.

Kindersley Klippers

Not much to say here. This club is hurting in a big way, and what better way to get back on track than at home against the league's last-place team?

It will be interesting to see if the Calkins-Adamyk-McGrath line is kept together tonight. Rockie was critical of their play on the weekend, especially in La Ronge. Sanfred King will take the warmup tonight and it would be a huge plus if he can play. He's such a versatile player and his size and hands are a big asset to this team. Check my twitter account around game time for an update on his status.

One other guy I want to mention is Ryan Benn. It sounds like he had a terrific game in Nipawin Friday. I've said it many times, but this guy could make plays in a phone booth, and when he gets a chance to play extra minutes he usually takes advantage. The thing with Benny is when he's on, he's really on. I've seen more of those games from him this year.

In goal, we could see Alex Peck or Dustin Nickel tonight. Rockie said Dustin will get his first start either tonight or Thursday against Melville.

Game time is 7:30. As always, see you at the rink, and if you can't make it, be sure to check for updates on my twitter.