WHL Playoffs: Conference Semi-finals Preview

The field for the WHL Playoffs has been cut in half, and now, eight teams remain as they look to be representing the WHL in the Memorial Cup. Puck drop for the first game is tomorrow, so without wasting any more time, let's go!

KELOWNA ROCKETS vs. VICTORIA ROYALS

The Rockets needed a seventh game and overtime to finally put away Kamloops in a closely contested series. They still haven't found a go-to guy on offense for the playoffs, but Michael Herringer held his own in goal. That may be good for at least a competitive series, particularly given that the Royals had a slightly hard time putting away Spokane before finally doing so in six games. Count on this one being close.

Prediction: Royals in 7

SEATTLE THUNDERBIRDS vs. EVERETT SILVERTIPS

Everett had little trouble putting away Portland despite Carter Hart only playing the last game of the series. Mario Petit was very good in Hart's absence, and given that the Silvertips are still prone to struggling on offense, they may need to ride their goaltending once again. The Thunderbirds were slightly tested, as two of their four games went into overtime. However, there is much to like about the Thunderbirds this year, and certainly, Landon Bow gives them their best shot of winning at least this series, especially if the team in front does their job.

Prediction: Thunderbirds in 6

BRANDON WHEAT KINGS vs. MOOSE JAW WARRIORS

The Wheat Kings sleepwalked through the first two games of their series with Edmonton, but woke up in a big way for the next four. They'll need all hands on deck for the entire series, as the Warriors possess two of the top offensive players in the league in Brayden Point and Dryden Hunt. Depth is a strength for the Wheat Kings, and provided that Jordan Papirny is competent, the Wheat Kings should advance. However, Zach Sawchenko can hold his own in net, and the Warriors could pull an upset if they're at their best.

Prediction: Wheat Kings in 6

REGINA PATS vs. RED DEER REBELS

The Pats handily pulled off the biggest upset of the opening round, beating Lethbridge with relative ease over five games. Adam Brooks continues to lead the way, but they face a Red Deer that had few problems going past Calgary. The Rebels would love to have a deep run to go along with a Memorial Cup appearance, so motivation is not a problem here, particularly since Trevor Martin is playing well in net and Adam Helewka has been the team's best forward.

Prediction: Rebels in 5

WHL Playoffs: Western Conference Preview

The WHL Playoffs begin tonight, with the Western Conference teams starting tomorrow. Prior to the season, it was thought that Kelowna would be a favorite to repeat as champions. Now, Victoria is in the driver's seat as the Scotty Munro Champions while Kelowna is struggling with injuries. Meanwhile, Seattle is finally starting to live up to their billing, as they took home the U.S. Division title, but the race to be the Western Conference representative in the WHL Finals appears to be wide open.

Victoria Royals vs. Spokane Chiefs

Don't let Victoria's defense fool you, they can also score. However, it does begin with the goaltending, as the duo of Coleman Vollrath and Griffen Outhouse man the nets ably. Their offense is balanced, as three players scored over 80 points while rookie Matthew Phillips contributed 76 points. Everything begins with MVP candidate Joe Hicketts, as he has been everything for the Royals. The Chiefs needed the last weekend to clinch a spot in the playoffs, and while there is talent in Kailer Yamamoto, asking them to contend this season is a bit much.

Prediction: Royals in 5

Kelowna Rockets vs. Kamloops Blazers

The Rockets looked like they were going to lock up the top spot in the Western Conference, but then injuries to Nick Merkley and Jackson Whistle derailed those chances. They still have Tyson Baillie, but seeing as there's almost a 30 point gap between him and the next highest scorer, it will be imperative that the Rockets get a team effort, particularly since Michael Herringer is untested in the playoffs. Kamloops doesn't score as much as Kelowna, but they got strong goaltending from Connor Ingram, and they've played their best hockey lately. An upset is not out of the cards here.

Prediction: Blazers in 7

Seattle Thunderbirds vs. Prince George Cougars

The Thunderbirds are led by Matt Barzal and Ryan Gropp, but are also getting contributions from players like Ethan Bear and Donovan Nelus. However, it was the mid-season pickup of Landon Bow from Swift Current that put the Thunderbirds over the top on the way to the U.S. Division title. If Seattle hopes to win a league title, this year is their best shot yet. The Cougars are led by Chase Witala, and along with players like Tate Olson and Jesse Gabrielle, the Cougars will need to pick up their offensive output, as their defense has been at its best in recent history.

Prediction: Thunderbirds in 6

Everett Silvertips vs. Portland Winterhawks

The Silvertips are riding Carter Hart's goaltending into the playoffs, but with a goal differential of just +10, it will be imperative that their offense shows up because if it doesn't, it's possible that they will be wasting Hart's efforts. In Portland, it's been a time of transition, as they struggled to get to the playoffs this season. They haven't been able to replace the scoring of recent seasons adequately, and they give up goals in bunches. However, it is the playoffs, and the Winterhawks have surprised before (see: last season) when their backs have been against the wall.

Prediction: Winterhawks in 7

A Time to Clinch

It's approaching playoff hockey season for the junior leagues, and in the WHL, the regular season champion, among other things, has been decided. Thanks to a victory over the Kelowna Rockets this week, the Victoria Royals will be taking home their first team hardware in their history as both the Royals and the Chilliwack Bruins as they are the Scotty Munro Trophy winners. Obviously, they also claim the B.C. Division title, as well as the top overall seed in the playoffs. Also claiming the top spot in their respective divisions are the Brandon Wheat Kings in the East Division (also the top spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs) and the Seattle Thunderbirds in the U.S. Division. Lethbridge holds a three point lead over Red Deer as of this writing, but the Rebels also play tonight. After today, the Hurricanes will have a game in hand.

WHL Playoff Picture: Western Conference

In the WHL Western Conference, things are less certain as to who will make the playoffs, as every team is still in it, and only 12 points is all that separates the sixth spot from dead last.

VICTORIA ROYALS: Thought to have been nothing more than a middle of the road team prior to the season, they find themselves a point ahead of Kelowna for the Scotty Munro Trophy, thanks to the second best offense and second best defense in terms of goals for and against. However, Kelowna does have two games in hand over Victoria, so the Royals' historically great season will have to be just that for the remainder of the season.

KELOWNA ROCKETS: Just a point behind Victoria and with two games in hand, the Rockets were dealt a blow recently when their best player Nick Merkley was lost for the season to injury. However, the Rockets are still a balanced attack that can do some damage come playoff time.

PRINCE GEORGE: Third in the B.C. Division, they still have to look over their shoulder for Kamloops, who sit five points back for that final division spot.

EVERETT SILVERTIPS: The best team in the goals against category, the Silvertips are also the U.S. Division leaders and a win over their nearest competitor Seattle last weekend helped add to their slim cushion. However, they are tied for second fewest goals for, so they are banking on Carter Hart to carry the team, which could be a recipe for disaster come playoff time.

SEATTLE THUNDERBIRDS: Thought to have been the favorite to claim the U.S. Division crown prior to the season, the T-Birds are instead trying to catch up to Everett while also trying to fend off the Portland Winterhawks and Spokane Chiefs, as five points is all that separates the three teams. Whether Logan Flodell can elevate his game in goal when the stakes get higher remains to be seen.

PORTLAND WINTERHAWKS: A loss to Calgary last night did not help in their quest to stay within the division spots. Four points is all that separates them from missing the playoffs, as Tri-City sits that far back and with a game in hand.

SPOKANE CHIEFS: Holders of the first wild card spot, it's rather tenuous, at best, as Tri-City is just three points back. While the Chiefs are most likely going to be contenders next season, they have to deal with this season, which will be painful.

KAMLOOPS BLAZERS: Like Portland and Spokane, they also have to look over their shoulder for Tri-City, who are just two points back of Kamloops and with a game in hand. Of the teams in that block, Portland and Tri-City have been playing their best hockey in the last 10 games, and Kamloops cannot afford too many slip-ups if they want to avoid missing the playoffs for the third straight season.

TRI-CITY AMERICANS: They are just two points out of a playoff spot, but have also played their best hockey lately, going 7-2-0-1 in their last 10 games. They have a good chance to make the playoffs if they can do well against their division rivals.

VANCOUVER GIANTS: They sit 10 points out of a playoff spot, but are still alive, with games against division rivals still to go. If they can win games like last weekend, they could sneak in, but it won't be easy if only Tyler Benson is regularly contributing.

2015-16 WHL Season BC Division Preview

With training camp coming soon, today is a look at the BC Division.

The Kamloops Blazers missed out on the playoffs for the second straight season, and worse, they say their first round in this year's Bantam Draft go to Moose Jaw in a trade two seasons ago.  They have decisions to make as far as who to keep as their three overagers, which include Cole Ully, Matt Needham, and Ryan Rehill.  The good news is that besides a year of being drama-free, thanks to Don Hay's return behind the bench, they will also have both Deven Sideroff and Connor Ingram returning.  If the Blazers wish to make the playoffs once again, Jake Kryski will have to take the next step forward.

The Kelowna Rockets came within a goal of being the Memorial Cup Champions, and now, they have to break in another new head coach, as Dan Lambert was lured away to Buffalo as an assistant coach.  Brad Ralph steps in, and unlike the previous season, it is not known what he will bring to the team.  The Rockets will also have holes to fill on the blue line, as both Madison Bowey and Josh Morrisey are turning pro, as will Leon Draisaitl.  Jackson Whistle could return as an overager, which would solidify things in goal.  Besides the losses, the Rockets do maintain a good roster, at least up front, as Nick Merkley, Rourke Chartier, and Justin Kirkland all return, with Tyson Baille potentially being one of three overagers.

Prince George experienced a revival of sorts thanks to ownership that is committed to the team and the city.  The results showed, as the Cougars made the playoffs for the first time in five seasons.  Defensively, the Cougars are still outright bad, which places a huge onus on the offense to produce.  Jansen Harkins and possibly Chase Witala will spearhead the offense from the front.  The Cougars will need all the offense they can get until things get better from the blue line, as Ty Edmonds is good, but he's nowhere near elite.

The Vancouver Giants had a wild season, as they canned Troy G. Ward just months into his first season as Giants coach and didn't retain Claude Noel after he finished the season as interim coach.  Lorne Molleken will step behind the bench, and while he inherits a top talent in Tyler Benson, there's little else that inspires confidence in the Giants.  Their biggest question mark is in goal, as Payton Lee took a big step back and he isn't even assured of a roster spot this season.

The Victoria Royals are as steady as it gets, and it is a near certainty that Coleman Vollrath will be one of the team's overagers this season.  The Royals aren't spectacular in any fashion, but they get the job done, a reflection of the coaching job that Dave Lowry has done since taking over as head coach in 2012.  Joe Hicketts leads the way on the blue line, and scoring is almost by committee every season, something that doesn't figure to change.

WHL Conference Semi-finals Preview

The WHL Playoffs are advancing to the Conference Semi-finals, and things are going according to plan (as far as rankings go).  The games resume tomorrow, so, let's dive into it.

(1) Brandon Wheat Kings vs. (2) Regina Pats

The Wheat Kings had some game one jitters, but they rebounded to finish off Edmonton in five games.  Though the top seed, their inexperience in the big games showed in the series.  Regina swept Swift Current on the way to this rematch from last season.  They're practically a score by committee team without Sam Steel, and it will be up to Daniel Wapple to be their rock in goal once again.

Prediction: Wheat Kings in five

(1) Calgary Hitmen vs. (2) Medicine Hat Tigers

The Hitmen were almost headed to an early tee time again at the hands of Kootenay, but they found a way to advance.  Of the top seeds left, they're looking the worst.  Medicine Hat had a great series against Red Deer, with the bounces going their way in some closely contested matches.

Prediction: Medicine Hat in six

(1) Kelowna Rockets vs. (2) Victoria Royals

The Rockets had little trouble with Tri-City for most of the series, but the clinching game showed that they have some holes to patch up.  Victoria put away a game Prince George team in five, and they may be Kelowna's biggest challenge yet.

Prediction: Kelowna in six

(1) Everett Silvertips vs. (2) Portland Winterhawks

The season series was fairly even, and both teams will be coming in with tired legs after each needed at least one overtime (Everett needed three OTs) to put away their respective opponents.  Everett had some trouble with Spokane, and they have less firepower than Portland.  Portland had a tough match-up with Seattle, and they will need to shore up their defensive holes if they want to advance.

Prediction: Portland in seven

WHL Western Conference Playoffs Preview

Most of the WHL playoffs action begins Friday, and that includes most of the Western Conference.  Today, here is a look at the Western Conference.

(1) Kelowna Rockets vs. (4) Tri-City Americans

The Rockets are heavily favored to be the Western Conference representative in the WHL Finals this year, but the same thing was said last year.  However, last year's team didn't have either Josh Morrisey or Leon Draisaitl.  The Rockets still have enviable depth, and with both former Prince Albert players on the roster, the Rockets provide a scary proposition for any team to face.  The Americans needed all of the season to secure a playoff spot, and their reward is basically being the sacrificial lamb to the best team in the Western Conference.

Prediction: Rockets in four

(2) Victoria Royals vs. (3) Prince George Cougars

The Royals are a very good team that is well-coached, as evidenced by Dave Lowry being named head coach for next year's WJC and Team Canada.  The Royals won't wow you with spectacular offense, but they play a physical style that wears opponents out.  The Cougars are back in the playoffs after a four year absence, and if an upset has to happen, it could be here, as the Cougars have shown an ability to play a full game (see: last game against the same Royals).  However, the Cougars must cut down the goals given up, as only Lethbridge and Saskatoon gave up more.

Prediction: Royals in six

(1) Everett Silvertips vs. (4) Spokane Chiefs

The Silvertips needed the last weekend to hold off the Portland Winterhawks to win their first U.S. Division title since 2007.  There may be a bit of a goaltending controversy, as Austin Lotz is the usual starter, but Carter Hart has played well lately.  If a team is going to beat Everett, it will have to be five-on-five, as the Silvertips were the second-least penalized team in the league.  The Chiefs are still a young team that isn't likely to challenge for an upset here, but the play of the Yamamoto brothers (Kailer and Keanu) plus a few others put the Chiefs comfortably into a wild card spot.

Prediction: Silvertips in six

(2) Portland Winterhawks vs. (3) Seattle Thunderbirds

These two rivals square off for the first time in the playoffs since 2006, and it's a little more even this year than in recent years.  The Winterhawks have two of the most prolific scorers in Oliver Bjorkstrand and Nic Petan, but don't forget about either Paul Bittner or Chase DeLeo.  Adin Hill has seized the starting goaltending job, but this will be his first time playing in a pressure-packed situation.  The Thunderbirds actually won the season series this year, and with Matt Barzal not having hit his full-stride, it's possible the Thunderbirds will have a second gear coming soon.  For Seattle to win, they do need to expose the lack of defensive depth on Portland's side, and that begins with Shea Theodore needing to be the offensive catalyst he's always been.

Prediction: Winterhawks in seven

WHL Playoff Picture: Western Conference

With a couple of big trades in the NHL in the last week, I had not been able to get to the Western Conference playoff picture in the WHL.  With a flurry of deals expected between now and the March 2 deadline, right now is the time to do it, so before it gets out of hand, here is what the Western Conference looks like right now:

WESTERN CONFERENCE

U.S. Division

1. Everett Silvertips: They hold a six point lead over Portland, but Portland has played well since the turn of the new year and there is the matter of division games to be played for both teams.

2. Portland Winterhawks: A slow start at the start of the season is the only reason why Portland is not leading the U.S. Division right now.  However, they are a hot streak away from taking the lead, as they are just six points back and have not yet peaked this season.

3. Seattle Thunderbirds: Eleven points back of Everett in the division, the Thunderbirds have done fairly well considering the injuries at various points in the season to their two best players in Shea Theodore and Matthew Barzal.  A lack of offense likely means they will have to start on the road for the first round of the series.

B.C. Division

1. Kelowna Rockets: 24 points clear of the next best team in the division, the Rockets are the only team in the Western Conference to clinch a playoff spot, and given that they're also 16 points ahead of the next best team in the conference, home ice advantage may not be far behind.

2. Victoria Royals: Comfortably in second place in the division, the Royals are looking to gain momentum heading into the playoffs, and not having much at stake could present issues once the Royals get to the playoffs.

3. Vancouver Giants: Their hold on the last guaranteed spot in the division is a tenuous one, as one point is all that separates them from Prince George and Kamloops, who are both on the outside looking in at the moment.

Wild Card

1. Spokane Chiefs: Seven points behind Seattle for the last guaranteed spot, the Chiefs are woefully short on depth, and as such, their hold on a playoff spot is also tenuous.

2. Tri-City Americans: The worst offensive team in the league, the Ams hold a five point lead over the two teams outside the playoff picture right now.  However, not beating Portland this season is doing them no favors right now.

3. Kamloops Blazers: Just a point behind Vancouver and five behind Tri-City, the Blazers can still make the playoffs.  The good news is that they will have games against Vancouver and Prince George, the two teams they're fighting with over the last guaranteed playoff spot.

4. Prince George Cougars: Like Kamloops, the Cougars are fighting for their playoff lives.  However, they give up the most goals in the league, and that has been their undoing the last few years.  At this rate, it may be that way again this year.

Winterhawks Weekly: Almost Break Time

The Portland Winterhawks are still playing well, and with a recent trade involving the Kelowna Rockets, they will have to step up their game.  Tuesday, the Winterhawks headed to Vancouver Island to take on the Victoria Royals, and in a wild one, the Winterhawks managed to win 6-4 for their sixth straight victory.  However, that winning streak would come to an end on Friday, as Vancouver would score three goals to open the game, and despite a comeback by the Winterhawks, they could not complete it as they fell 3-2.  The Winterhawks came home on Saturday hoping to start a new winning streak, and on Teddy Bear Toss night, the Winterhawks not only made it rain teddy bears, but they also held off the Everett Silvertips in another wild one 5-3.  Sunday, the Winterhawks proved to be rude hosts to the Medicine Hat Tigers, as the Winterhawks handled them 4-1, leaving the Winterhawks with eight wins in their last nine games and just three points back of Everett in the U.S. Division standings.

Yesterday, the Kelowna Rockets made a big trade that could impact what Portland does in their quest for five straight Conference titles, as the Rockets picked up Josh Morrissey and Gage Quinney from Prince Albert in exchange for Austin Glover and Jesse Lees, plus some draft picks.

As for the Winterhawks, they play at home Friday against Spokane before finishing the week on the road against Seattle on Saturday and Sunday against Tri-City before the holiday break.

Winterhawks Weekly: Don't Look Now, But...

The Portland Winterhawks are officially on a winning streak.  Coming off of two straight victories the previous weekend against Kelowna, the Winterhawks were looking to achieve their first winning streak of more than two games this season.  By the end of this weekend, the Winterhawks ended up with a five game winning streak and counting.

Tuesday, the Winterhawks overcame a 2-1 deficit after one period to overtake the Victoria Royals at home in a 4-2 win.  Friday, the Daylight Classic happened, and the Kootenay Ice were the opponents in a game where the curtains to the Veterans Memorial Coliseum were pulled back.  The Winterhawks turned a three goal second period into a 5-2 win, with Adin Hill getting his second victory of the week.  Saturday, the Winterhawks traveled to Kennewick, WA to take on the Tri-City Americans for the first time this season, and while the Winterhawks jumped out to a 3-0 lead at one point, they had to hold off an Ams comeback in the end to preserve a 3-2 win for Brendan Burke.

The Winterhawks will be a busy team this week, as they look to extend their winning streak at Victoria on Tuesday and at Vancouver on Friday before coming home to take on Everett Saturday and Medicine Hat Sunday.

Fade to Black

from the Victoria Royals' Twitter

Last night was another game for the Victoria Royals, as they beat the Vancouver Giants 2-1 on the strength of their power play.  However, that's not the reason why this post is being made, nor is the fact that it's the OTHER Royals-Giants matchup going on this weekend.

The picture above is what the Royals wore on the ice.  Yes, it is a black jersey, and it marks the first time that the team has gone the third jersey route in their short existence.  The look is solid, with a front view of the lion's face as the logo on the front and the Royals wordmark on the shoulders.  While the striping on the sleeves and waist could be better, the consistency with all of them is a good thing here, as it's white on top, with black and blue going down and the blue being thicker than the other two stripes.  The numbering and lettering is fairly standard, which works here in that the Royals make the jersey all about what's on front.  Overall, the Victoria Royals kept their third jersey design simple, yet effective.

Winterhawks Weekly: Still Not All There

The struggles continue for the Portland Winterhawks, as the Victoria Royals ran over them 6-2 in Victoria on Friday while the Seattle Thunderbirds took home a 3-2 shootout victory against the Winterhawks in Portland on Saturday.  However, the real loss of the weekend happened on Saturday, when Seattle's Evan Wardley put a big hit on Nic Petan that will sideline him for an indefinite amount of time.  Wardley was suspended seven games for the hit.

Portland begins their road trip through Saskatchewan and Manitoba this week, as they will take on Moose Jaw this Friday and Brandon on Saturday.

Winterhawks Weekly: The Good, the Bad, and the Brutally Ugly

The Portland Winterhawks picked up the first points of the 2014-15 campaign, though their degrees of success last week were varied.  Friday, the Winterhawks lost to Seattle in the shootout, earning a point in the process thanks to the overtime/shootout.  Saturday, Alex Schoenborn scored in overtime to give Jamie Kompon his first win as Winterhawks coach as the they turned back Everett in the extra frame by a 3-2 score.  Monday, the Winterhawks fell into a 5-0 hole after two periods and were unable to make up the goals, as they fell 6-2 in Victoria.  Nic Petan made his first appearance of the season in that game after returning from Winnipeg a day earlier.

The Winterhawks are on the road Friday against Everett before coming home to take on Seattle.

WHL Award Winners

Photo by Brad Watson

Today, the WHL announced the winners of the annual trophies handed out at the end of the season and will be holding the Bantam Draft tomorrow.  Saturday will be game one of the WHL finals between familiar foes in the Portland Winterhawks and the Edmonton Oil Kings.

The award winners, and the runner-up:

Four Broncos Memorial Trophy (WHL Player of the Year): Sam Reinhart, Kootenay Ice

Mitch Holmberg was an important part of the Spokane Chiefs' push for the playoffs, leading the league in scoring and breaking the team record in goals.  However, Reinhart was equally important in the Ice's push for a playoff spot, and never more was that evident than when he helped rally the Ice together when teammate Tim Bozon was sidelined due to meningitis.

Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy (Rookie of the Year): Nick Merkley, Kelowna Rockets

One of the reasons the Kelowna Rockets were at the top of the regular season standings was because of the contributions of Merkley.  The Rockets had many contributors, and Merkley did his part.  He figures to be a bigger part of the team next season when the likes of Jordon Cooke and Damon Severson move on.  The Saskatoon Blades had a rough season, but Nikita Scherbak was a revelation, as he provided the team hope for next season with his offensive prowess.

Del Wilson Trophy (Goaltender of the Year): Jordon Cooke, Kelowna Rockets

Cooke had his best season with the Rockets, and not coincidentally, so did the Rockets as a team.  His efforts were enough to edge out Tristan Jarry of the Edmonton Oil Kings.  Jarry offered the Oil Kings similar results from what his predecessor Laurent Brossoit did, and he will be competing for the Ed Chynoweth Trophy starting this weekend along with the rest of the Oil Kings.

Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy (Defenseman of the Year): Derrick Pouliot, Portland Winterhawks

The Winterhawks' blue line may have taken a hit prior to this season with the losses of Troy Rutkowski, Tyler Wotherspoon, and Seth Jones, but Derrick Pouliot remained.  He missed a few games due to being up with Pittsburgh at the start of the season and the WJC, but when he was in a Winterhawks' uniform, no one was more important to the team's success this season than Pouliot.  Josh Morrissey of the Prince Albert Raiders was equally important to his team, but overall, the team didn't have nearly the same amount of success that was expected of them.

Brad Hornung Trophy (Most Sportsmanlike): Sam Reinhart, Kootenay Ice

Unsurprisingly, the two finalists for the Four Broncos Memorial Trophy were also the best at keeping out of the penalty box.  Reinhart only amassed 11 PIM en route to posting 105 points and leading the Ice to the Conference semi-finals.  Holmberg's record breaking season was made possible in part by him avoiding the penalty box for much of the season.

Daryl K. (Doc) Seaman Memorial Trophy (Scholastic): Nelson Nogier, Saskatoon Blades

In his senior year, Nogier averaged 96% in his classes and is expected to graduate with Great Distinction in his class.  His season may have been cut short due to injury, but it did not keep him from succeeding in the classroom.  Dominic Turgeon also excelled in the classroom while playing a pivotal third line role for the Winterhawks.

Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy (Humanitarian): Sam Fioretti, Moose Jaw Warriors

Mitch Topping of the Tri-City Americans made an impact off the ice, but it was Fioretti that came away with this trophy.  Fioretti was one of the main players that reached out to the community of Moose Jaw in many ways, including education and anti-bullying.

Dunc McCallum Trophy (Coach): Dave Lowry, Victoria Royals

Lowry led the Royals to their best season as he oversaw the goaltending tandem of Patrik Polivka and Coleman Vollrath post stellar numbers.  Shaun Clouston helped keep the Medicine Hat Tigers afloat and guided them to the Conference Finals.

WHL Western Conference Semi-finals Preview

The Western Conference went according to plan, as the top four seeds advanced.  The games promise to be good, and anyone can still win it out here.

(1) Kelowna Rockets vs. (4) Seattle Thunderbirds

The Rockets were the best team in the WHL this year, but they also looked rather ordinary against the Tri-City Americans, needing five games to win the series.  While Jordon Cooke has remained hot, the offense can be neutralized by sterling goaltending from the opposing team.  Taran Kozun has been that goaltender for the Thunderbirds since coming over in January, and Seattle has more offense than what Tri-City had this season by a lot.  Shea Theodore is the team's spark plug from the blue line, but Adam Henry is good in his own right.  The Rockets will have to match the Thunderbirds hit for hit, as the T-Birds are known for playing with a chip on the shoulder.

Prediction: Thunderbirds in 7

(2) Portland Winterhawks vs. (3) Victoria Royals

The Winterhawks breezed their way through the first round, scoring six goals in three of their four games (the other game was a mere three goal effort, but was also a shutout).  For all of the offense they have, their defense doesn't nearly get enough credit, as they've done a better job since early January.  The Royals don't wow you in any way on offense, but their goaltending is where they have the decided advantage.  They needed overtime to beat the Chiefs in the first two games, but found it easy going the rest of the way.  They'll have more than just two players to shut down this time, as the Winterhawks can roll out at least two lines of scoring and their blue line can chip in, too.

Prediction: Winterhawks in 6

WHL Western Conference Playoff Preview

The WHL begins their playoff season this weekend, and while the Portland Winterhawks are looking to defend their title, there are fifteen other teams looking to knock them off.  The Eastern Conference is still waiting for their eighth team, and that will be settled in a tie-breaker game tonight, as the Prince Albert Raiders take on the Red Deer Rebels for the right to face the Edmonton Oil Kings in the opening round.  Until then, this will be about the Western Conference.

(1) KELOWNA ROCKETS vs. (8) TRI-CITY AMERICANS

The Rockets took home the Scotty Munro Trophy as the best team in the regular season, and feature the second best offensive attack that is well balanced.  Myles Bell leads the way with 42 goals.  Defensively, only Edmonton and Victoria were better, and much of the credit goes to goaltender Jordon Cooke, though having the likes of Damon Severson and Madison Bowey also help.  Tri-City was the third worst offensive team in the league, with Brian Williams being the only real scoring threat.  Eric Comrie was undoubtedly the team's MVP, as he kept the team in many games, and for Tri-City to pull off an upset, he will have to be the difference maker once again.

Prediction: Kelowna in 4

(2) PORTLAND WINTERHAWKS vs. (7) VANCOUVER GIANTS

Surprise! The Winterhawks led the league in goals scored once again, and Nic Petan and Brendan Leipsic were two of the top three scorers on the team once again.  This time though, they were joined by Oliver Bjorkstrand, who led the team in goals with 50.  Defensively, they began to pick up steam once Matthew Dumba and Corbin Boes joined the team, and Boes joins Brendan Burke and Adin Hill as a formidable goaltending trio.  The Giants struggled early in the season, but they picked it up just enough to make the playoffs.  Carter Popoff enabled both Cain Franson and Jackson Houck to have productive years, as the latter two scored at least 30 goals each.  Defensively, they could use some work, as Payton Lee is still maturing in goal, and that was evident in the team giving up the second most goals of all the playoff teams in the West.

Prediction: Portland in 5

(3) VICTORIA ROYALS vs. (6) SPOKANE CHIEFS

The Royals made a living on stopping the opposing team from scoring, and it showed, as they led the Conference in giving up the fewest goals.  Patrik Polivka and Coleman Vollrath are a solid duo in goal, but their efforts would be going to waste if not for the team's balanced scoring attack.  Brandon Magee and Austin Carroll lead the way, but the mid-season acquisition of Axel Blomqvist from Lethbridge has really helped.  To say that the Chiefs are a one man show would be a mistake.  Mitch Holmberg was the leading scorer in the league, but he had some help along the way, thanks to the likes of Mike Aviani and Reid Gow.  Beyond those three, things get a little dicey, and that lack of depth combined with an ordinary defense could spell their quick departure.

Prediction: Victoria in 6

(4) SEATTLE THUNDERBIRDS vs. (5) EVERETT SILVERTIPS

Seattle is not nearly the offensive juggernaut that they appear to be on paper.  However, one would not be wise to discount their abilities, especially with Shea Theodore jump starting things for them.  The ex-Lethbridge trio of Russell Maxwell, Jaimen Yakubowski, and Sam McKechnie have proven to be a formidable shutdown line for the Thunderbirds, and certainly, the addition of Taran Kozun as given them peace of mind in goal.  The Silvertips are playing Kevin Constantine hockey in that their defense is carrying the day.  That's great news for Austin Lotz, who has elevated his game this season after showing glimpses in the opening round last year.  Offensively, they're balanced, but Josh Winquist is the clear leader of the group there, as he led the next best player (Ivan Nikolishin) by 34 points.

Prediction: Seattle in 7

WHL Western Conference Playoff Picture

It is a little more than a month before the WHL playoffs begin, and there are still some things that need to be decided before that begins, especially in the Western Conference.  With that in mind, here is how it stands as of this morning:

1. Kelowna Rockets:  They're the only team to clinch a playoff spot so far, and they hold a nine point lead over Portland for home ice advantage and a 12 point lead over Victoria in the B.C. Division.  Health will be a major concern moving forward, as it was what felled their playoff run last season.

2. Portland Winterhawks: They lead the Seattle Thunderbirds by six points in the U.S. Division, and they are riding a 12-game winning streak.  They are getting hot at the right time, and provided that Brendan Leipsic doesn't get suspended again, the Winterhawks could make it four Conference titles in a row.

3. Victoria Royals: Most likely headed for a third or fourth seed, they are far from flashy, as they don't score as much as the other teams in the Conference, but make up for it by being the best defensive team in the Conference.  Goaltending will be a critical element to how far they go, as Patrik Polivka (2.56 GAA) and Coleman Vollrath (2.17 GAA) have played well despite splitting time.

4. Seattle Thunderbirds: They went all in with trades for Sam McKechnie, Jaimen Yakubowski, Adam Henry, Russell Maxwell, and Taran Kozun.  The result is that they are currently six points behind Portland in the U.S. Division, and are playing some of their best hockey at the right time.  A dark horse to take it all, Kozun's play will determine if the Thunderbirds are for real come March.

5. Spokane Chiefs: They would be a great team right now, but they haven't been able to solve either Portland or Seattle this season.  Consistency is an issue, and that won't cut it against the better teams.

6. Vancouver Giants: Struggled mightily in the early going, but they have righted the ship enough to at least get into the playoffs.  Potentially a deep sleeper team, they still need another year to be serious contenders for the Western Conference crown.

7. Everett Silvertips: In November, they were leading the U.S. Division.  Now, they are a mere seven points ahead of Prince George, who themselves are only two points out of a playoff spot.  Their last 10 games haven't been kind to them, and the games against Portland in that stretch have been particularly brutal, with one of those games making national television...for the wrong reasons.  They still have a good defense, but will they score enough?

8. Tri-City Americans: The only reason they occupy a playoff spot is because of Eric Comrie's heroics in net.  They can't score (fourth worst team on offense in the league), and they gave up 17 goals in their last two games.  Comrie can't stop everything, and the offense will likely be the cause for the team missing the playoffs if it comes to that.

9. Prince George Cougars: Absolutely terrible on defense despite Ty Edmonds' presence in net, yet they're only two points out of a playoff spot thanks to an offense that only Kelowna and Portland top in the Conference.  They are currently on a six game winning streak, and games against Portland today and Wednesday will go a long way in determining if the Cougars will make some noise in the playoffs...if they get there, that is.

10. Kamloops Blazers:  They'd like to forget that this season ever happened.  Fighting with Lethbridge over who gets the first overall pick in the Bantam Draft was not what the Blazers had in mind, and that was even with the idea that they were rebuilding after two straight Conference Finals appearances.

Winterhawks Weekly: We are Whole Again

After a week in which the Portland Winterhawks didn't perform so well, the following week was the exact opposite.  This week saw the Winterhawks gain back Nic Petan, Derrick Pouliot, and Taylor Leier from the World Juniors, Brendan Leipsic return from suspension, and they even got Matthew Dumba, as the Minnesota Wild sent him down to Portland.  Yes, sir, this week was going to be way better than the last.

It began on Wendesday, as the Portland Winterhawks hit the road for the week.  The Everett Silvertips were the first stop on the trip, and Pouliot showed no rust as he scored to make it 1-0 after one period.  Carson Stadnyk tied it for the Tips as both teams would need that third period to decide things.  Leipsic also showed no rust, as he would put the Winterhawks up for good midway through the third period.  Adam de Champlain would add an insurance goal, and Keegan Iverson would add an empty net goal to give Adin Hill his first win in his first WHL appearance as the Winterhawks got back on the winning track with a 4-1 decision.

Friday and Saturday, the Winterhawks were on Vancouver Island to take on the Victoria Royals.  The Friday tilt began with Petan and Ben Walker scoring for their respective teams to make it even at one after a period.  Leipsic would put the Hawks up 2-1 heading into the third period, but Steven Hodges would foce overtime with a third period goal.  Overtime settled nothing, and a shootout was needed, where Victoria would pull out a victory on a Jack Walker goal, spoiling the Winterhawks debut of Corbin Boes, who was acquired from Lethbridge on Thursday.

Saturday, the Winterhawks had a chance for revenge, as Leipsic would open the scoring for the Winterhawks to make it 1-0.  It would remain that way until the third period, when Jordan Fransoo would tie the game for the Royals.  However, an Oliver Bjorkstrand goal late in the period would be all the Winterhawks needed, as they made a 2-1 winner out of a returning Brendan Burke, who had been sidelined with injury.

Sunday, the Winterhawks traveled to Vancouver to take on a rising Giants team.  The Winterhawks would jump out to a 2-1 lead on goals by Alex Schoenborn and Chase de Leo sandwiching a Giants goal by recently acquired Dominik Volek.  However, Dalton Thrower and Brett Kulak would give the Giants a 3-2 lead heading into the second period.  Paul Bittner and Dalton Sward would exchange goals in the second period to make it 4-3 Giants heading into the final frame.  De Champlain would force overtime with a goal in the third period, and like the Friday game, this one required a shootout.  This time, the Winterhawks would be on the right side of the result, as Leier would score the winner, giving Boes his first win as a Winterhawk.

The Winterhawks return home for the week, as they take on Moose Jaw on Friday, Spokane on Sunday, and because there is a game after that on Monday, the Giants on that day, so the Winterhawks Weekly report will be delayed a day.

Winterhawks Weekly: A Week to Forget

This past week wasn't very kind to the Portland Winterhawks, as they were given dominated by Kelowna and Tuesday and Thursday, losing 9-3 and 7-2, respectively.  Friday wasn't much better, as Tri-City found their offense in a 5-1 loss, and Saturday, while in a losing effort to Victoria, was considerably better, only losing by one.

All four games were without the services of Taylor Leier, Derrick Pouliot, and Nic Petan, who finished their WJC tournament out of the medal podium after losing to Russia in the bronze medal game, and Brendan Leipsic, who served a seven game suspension.  All four are expected back this week in what promises to be a tough road trip.

Wednesday, they travel to Everett for a tilt against the Silvertips before heading to the island for two games at Victoria on Friday and Saturday before concluding the road trip at Vancouver on Sunday.  The return of those four, plus potentially gaining Matthew Dumba if Minnesota does decide to send him down, will likely make a big difference for the Winterhawks for the rest of the season.

Winterhawks Weekly: Win, Lose, and Extra Time

The Portland Winterhawks began the week with an 11-game winning streak.  They ended it beginning a brand new winning streak, as Wednesday against Tri-City wasn't kind, particularly in the waning moments of the game.  Taylor Leier opened the scoring to give the Winterhawks a 1-0 lead after one period.  The second period would end up tied at two, thanks to goals from Chase De Leo and Connor Rankin and Brian Williams scored for Tri-City.  The game would be tied until the last 30 seconds of the game, when Parker Bowles scored the game winner for Tri-City and handed Portland and Brendan Burke a 3-2 loss.

Saturday, the Victoria Royals came calling, and they would jump to a 2-1 lead on goals from Austin Carroll and Brandon Magee, with Leier scoring in between for the Winterhawks.  The score would remain the same for the second period and would also remain that way until six minutes remaining in the third period, when Oliver Bjorkstrand would force overtime and give Portland at least a point in the standing.  Unfortunately, that would be all they get, as Magee would get the game winner in the extra frame, giving Victoria a 3-2 win despite another solid effort from Burke in goal.

Sunday, the Winterhawks welcomed the Regina Pats for the only meeting of the season, and from the start, the Winterhawks were the better team, as they peppered the Pats goaltending with 58 shots.  Nic Petan and Brendan Leipsic scored in the opening frame to make it 2-0.  Dryden Hunt and Leier exchanged goals in the second period to make it 3-1 for the Winterhawks.  Kyle Burroughs kept the Pats in the game with a goal to cut the lead to one, but De Leo and Leier would shut the door for the Winterhawks and give Jarrod Schamerhorn a win in a relatively easy and much needed 5-2 win for the Winterhawks heading into next week.

The Winterhawks welcome their I-5 rival Seattle on Tuesday before hitting the road on Friday against Everett and on Saturday at Kamloops.