Tuesday, August 13, 2013

Tightening Up

RED DEER REBELS

2012-13 record: 39-26-5-2 (lost to Calgary in Conference semi-finals)

The Red Deer Rebels started to find an identity as a team that places heavy emphasis on defense last year, and it showed, as they were tied for third in the Conference in goals against (tied with Calgary with 204).  Offensively, they could stand to score more, and it won't help that the second leading scorer on the team, Turner Elson, will not be back this season.  Jordan DePape and Brandon Underwood are also leaving, and it is possible that either or both Rhyse Dieno and Matt Dumba could be elsewhere next season.  Both Dominik Volek and Patrik Bartosak return, as the Rebels did not take anyone in the Import Draft, with Bartosak a likely candidate to take one of three overager spots on the roster.  He will be an important player in the Rebels' continued success on defense, as he took home the Del Wilson Trophy as top goaltender in the WHL.

Prediction: Sixth in the East

While offense remains a big question for the Rebels, it will up to the defense to carry the day, and reigning goaltender of the year Bartosak figures to be a prominent part of that puzzle.

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