Well they made it interesting Friday night in Albert Lea. The Express gave up 3 quick goals at the beginning of the 3rd period, which turned a 2-0 lead into a 3-2 deficit. The Express fought back and tied the game at 3-3 with 6 minutes left, on a goal from Dmitry Lugin. It looked like the game was heading to overtime until Zach Vierling scored with 6 seconds left in regulation to give the Express a 4-3 win.
A win is a win, and the Express picked up 2 important points, while keeping Albert Lea from getting any points by winning in regulation. For a young team as the Express are, to fight back on the road, after giving up the 3 goals in the 3rd period, showed a lot of heart. As Coach Cullen has intimated numerous times, there are no easy games, and if you don't come ready to play you will get beat. I'll take the win, and hope for a more dominating perfomance Saturday night in Owatonna.
- In the pregame interview with Roy Koenig, Coach Cullen said that the surgery on Express forward John Kruse's wrist went well, and he will hopefully be back in the lineup around New Years.
- A new forward suited up for the Express tonight. His name is Brian McGinty and he's wearing jersey #17. He is from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, and is a 1989 birth year. He spent the beginning of this season, and all of last year with the Mahoning Valley Phantoms. Coach Cullen said(paraphrasing here) that McGinty immediately adds depth to the Express roster, that he plays with an edge, plays a physical game, and has good hands/puck skills.
- Starting lineup for the Express tonight was Buegler, Smith, Puente, McDonald, Bournazos, and Thorson.
See you at the rink.
--BK
Friday, October 31, 2008
Weekend Preview and Predictions
First of all, the Express are front page news on the NAHL website today. It's a nice little article that you can read here: http://www.nahl.com/news/story.cfm?id=658
The Express play a home and home series with the Albert Lea Thunder starting tonight in Albert Lea, and finishing Saturday night in Owatonna. Being that it's Halloween weekend, I will boil my preview down to one simple phrase: "Trick or treat". The "trick" is that the Express need to go out and play their game and not get drawn into a penalty filled/cheap shot laden games. If that happens, then Cullen and company will "treat" Express fans to a pair of victories. The Express have the advantage in the speed department, which hopefully translates into more offense this weekend against a very young and inexperienced Thunder team.
- This is the second game this season with the Thunder. The Express won 5-2 on September 27th in what was the home opener for the Thunder.
- Brady Sand who was the Thunder's #1 goalie early in the season, before quitting, is now playing with the Rochester Ice Hawks. Technically the Thunder traded him to Rochester for "future considerations".
- Trivia Question: The Thunder won their first game of the season last weekend with a victory over the Bismarck Bobcats in their 11th game of the season. How long did it take for the Express to get their first victory in their inaugural season in the NAHL (2005-06)?? I will post the answer at the end of this post.
Big Kahuna's Prediction: Express 5 - Thunder 1
The Express have been solid in goal, and solid on defense since the showcase, but the offense hasn't pulled its weight. I think that changes tonight, and the offense gets on track. The guys have an opportunity to get some steam going this weekend and it starts tonight.
Predictions for the other NAHL games tonight: (I'm 75-39 on the season)
USNTDP over Motor City
Traverse City over Mahoning Valley
Alexandria over Marquette
Topeka over Springfield
Alaska over Kenai River
Wichita Falls over Fairbanks
Trivia Question answer: The Express won their first game as a franchise in their first game as a franchise, 2-1 over the Springfield Jr Blues. Jamie Ruff and Mike Montgomery scored for the Express, and Andrew Ross has 23 saves in goal.
See you at the rink.
--Big Kahuna
The Express play a home and home series with the Albert Lea Thunder starting tonight in Albert Lea, and finishing Saturday night in Owatonna. Being that it's Halloween weekend, I will boil my preview down to one simple phrase: "Trick or treat". The "trick" is that the Express need to go out and play their game and not get drawn into a penalty filled/cheap shot laden games. If that happens, then Cullen and company will "treat" Express fans to a pair of victories. The Express have the advantage in the speed department, which hopefully translates into more offense this weekend against a very young and inexperienced Thunder team.
- This is the second game this season with the Thunder. The Express won 5-2 on September 27th in what was the home opener for the Thunder.
- Brady Sand who was the Thunder's #1 goalie early in the season, before quitting, is now playing with the Rochester Ice Hawks. Technically the Thunder traded him to Rochester for "future considerations".
- Trivia Question: The Thunder won their first game of the season last weekend with a victory over the Bismarck Bobcats in their 11th game of the season. How long did it take for the Express to get their first victory in their inaugural season in the NAHL (2005-06)?? I will post the answer at the end of this post.
Big Kahuna's Prediction: Express 5 - Thunder 1
The Express have been solid in goal, and solid on defense since the showcase, but the offense hasn't pulled its weight. I think that changes tonight, and the offense gets on track. The guys have an opportunity to get some steam going this weekend and it starts tonight.
Predictions for the other NAHL games tonight: (I'm 75-39 on the season)
USNTDP over Motor City
Traverse City over Mahoning Valley
Alexandria over Marquette
Topeka over Springfield
Alaska over Kenai River
Wichita Falls over Fairbanks
Trivia Question answer: The Express won their first game as a franchise in their first game as a franchise, 2-1 over the Springfield Jr Blues. Jamie Ruff and Mike Montgomery scored for the Express, and Andrew Ross has 23 saves in goal.
See you at the rink.
--Big Kahuna
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Big Kahuna's NAHL Power Rankings - 10/29/2008
Big Kahuna's NAHL Power Rankings - 10/29/2008
1. St Louis Bandits (0)
2. Traverse City North Stars (+2)
3. Topeka Roadrunners (-1)
4. Mahoning Valley Phantoms (-1)
5. USNTDP (0)
6. Alexandria Blizzard (+1)
7. Alaska Avalanche (+1)
8. Wichita Falls Wildcats (-2)
9. North Iowa Outlaws (0)
10. Bismarck Bobcats (0)
11. Alpena Ice Diggers (+1)
12. Springfield Jr Blues (+1)
13. Owatonna Express (-2)
14. Marquette Rangers (0)
15. Fairbanks Ice Dogs (0)
16. Kenai River Brown Bears (0)
17. Motor City Machine (0)
18. Wenatchee Wild (0)
19. Albert Lea Thunder (0)
The Express dropped 2 spots this week, even though they played their best game of the season in the loss to North Iowa. It had more to do with Springfield winning 2 games over Wichita Falls, and Alpena playing better with Nick Graves in goal.
See you at the rink.
--BK
1. St Louis Bandits (0)
2. Traverse City North Stars (+2)
3. Topeka Roadrunners (-1)
4. Mahoning Valley Phantoms (-1)
5. USNTDP (0)
6. Alexandria Blizzard (+1)
7. Alaska Avalanche (+1)
8. Wichita Falls Wildcats (-2)
9. North Iowa Outlaws (0)
10. Bismarck Bobcats (0)
11. Alpena Ice Diggers (+1)
12. Springfield Jr Blues (+1)
13. Owatonna Express (-2)
14. Marquette Rangers (0)
15. Fairbanks Ice Dogs (0)
16. Kenai River Brown Bears (0)
17. Motor City Machine (0)
18. Wenatchee Wild (0)
19. Albert Lea Thunder (0)
The Express dropped 2 spots this week, even though they played their best game of the season in the loss to North Iowa. It had more to do with Springfield winning 2 games over Wichita Falls, and Alpena playing better with Nick Graves in goal.
See you at the rink.
--BK
Monday, October 27, 2008
The Time Has Come
The time has come. From here on out, if you wish to post a comment on the blog, you will need to be a registered user. It only takes a minute to get registered, so please take the time to do so. Once you get registered and have a user name, please send me that username to my email address (owatonnaexpress@yahoo.com), and include your real name. I promise you complete privacy, and won't reveal any information to anyone. As the blog has grown in popularity, the amount of comments has grown exponentially. It has come to the point where it's getting too hard to differentiate the good information from the bad information, and lately that has led to me rejecting alot of comments because I just don't know if they are accurate. If I know the source of the comments, there will be some accountablility in play. This doesn't mean you can't still keep your anonymity, as I will be the only one that knows who you are. Besides, since most of you know who I am, it's only fair that I know who you are. By the way, if you see me at the rink, feel free to introduce yourself, and let me know what you think of the blog.
In summary, here's what you need to do:
1. Register with blogspot as a user. Some of you already are, so you can skip this step.
2. Send me an email (owatonnaexpress@yahoo.com) that includes your registered username and your real name. If you want to, please include other information i.e. I am a billet parent, I am a biological parent, I am a volunteer, I am a donor, etc..
3. Continue to enjoy the blog by reading and commenting.
When I first started the blog, I never expected it to grow into what it has become. I was surprised when 15-20 people were reading it ever day. Now that there are several hundred people visiting everyday, some changes are in order. I really wanted to make this an open forum for discussion about our favorite junior hockey team, and that won't change. Please continue to read and enjoy the blog.
From the Express Coaches Show Monday night:
- Coach Cullen said (paraphrasing here) that the first 2 periods of last Saturday's game against North Iowa were the best 2 periods of hockey the Express have played all year, they were getting quality chances but couldn't get anything past Callaghan the Outlaw goalie.
- On the Central Division race Cullen said "We're right there" and (paraphrasing again) that nobody scares him, but you have to bring it every night or you can get beat.
- Player interviews were with Cory Thorson and Zach Vierling. The common theme with these 2 guys tonight, and every player that has been interviewed so far, is how happy they are to be playing here. Thorson said he "loves it here", "loves the physicality" of the NAHL game, and that "things are starting to click".
- Coach Cullen filled us in on the injury to Express forward John Kruse. He has a broken bone in his wrist that wasn't detected on the first x-ray, and played the first 10 games that way. Upon a second x-ray the break was discovered, and John had surgery this morning to fix it. He will be out around 2 months, and Cullen hopes to have him back after Christmas or in early January.
Next up for the Express is a home and home series with the Albert Lea Thunder this weekend, Friday night in Albert Lea, and Saturday night in Owatonna. Albert Lea is fresh off their first victory of the season, and will be looking to start a win streak against the Express. The Express are playing their best hockey of the season, and can put some more distance between themselves and the Thunder for the ever important 4th playoff spot. Happy hour starts at 6:00pm, and don't forget your buckets and other noisemakers. It is also "Skate with the Express" night so bring your skates and take a lap or two with your favorite Express players.
Power rankings will be posted tomorrow.
--Big Kahuna
In summary, here's what you need to do:
1. Register with blogspot as a user. Some of you already are, so you can skip this step.
2. Send me an email (owatonnaexpress@yahoo.com) that includes your registered username and your real name. If you want to, please include other information i.e. I am a billet parent, I am a biological parent, I am a volunteer, I am a donor, etc..
3. Continue to enjoy the blog by reading and commenting.
When I first started the blog, I never expected it to grow into what it has become. I was surprised when 15-20 people were reading it ever day. Now that there are several hundred people visiting everyday, some changes are in order. I really wanted to make this an open forum for discussion about our favorite junior hockey team, and that won't change. Please continue to read and enjoy the blog.
From the Express Coaches Show Monday night:
- Coach Cullen said (paraphrasing here) that the first 2 periods of last Saturday's game against North Iowa were the best 2 periods of hockey the Express have played all year, they were getting quality chances but couldn't get anything past Callaghan the Outlaw goalie.
- On the Central Division race Cullen said "We're right there" and (paraphrasing again) that nobody scares him, but you have to bring it every night or you can get beat.
- Player interviews were with Cory Thorson and Zach Vierling. The common theme with these 2 guys tonight, and every player that has been interviewed so far, is how happy they are to be playing here. Thorson said he "loves it here", "loves the physicality" of the NAHL game, and that "things are starting to click".
- Coach Cullen filled us in on the injury to Express forward John Kruse. He has a broken bone in his wrist that wasn't detected on the first x-ray, and played the first 10 games that way. Upon a second x-ray the break was discovered, and John had surgery this morning to fix it. He will be out around 2 months, and Cullen hopes to have him back after Christmas or in early January.
Next up for the Express is a home and home series with the Albert Lea Thunder this weekend, Friday night in Albert Lea, and Saturday night in Owatonna. Albert Lea is fresh off their first victory of the season, and will be looking to start a win streak against the Express. The Express are playing their best hockey of the season, and can put some more distance between themselves and the Thunder for the ever important 4th playoff spot. Happy hour starts at 6:00pm, and don't forget your buckets and other noisemakers. It is also "Skate with the Express" night so bring your skates and take a lap or two with your favorite Express players.
Power rankings will be posted tomorrow.
--Big Kahuna
Friday, October 24, 2008
Around the NAHL - Friday Night Edition
Okay, I realize that most people already know the two guys that were released, and the guy who is hurt. I still haven't officially confirmed the facts, so I'm going to keep my mouth shut until I can confirm. Subsequently, I won't post any of the comments that mention the names. You might think I am being really anal about this, but think of how the players or their families would feel if I mistakenly said they were cut, and they actually weren't. I won't be that guy.
- Albert Lea just about beat Alexandria tonight. The Thunder led 4-2 half-way through the 3rd period, but gave up 3 goals, including the game winner with 4 seconds left. They are still winless on the year, but can't be taken lightly. The Express play them twice next weekend.
- Motor City lost again tonight to Marquette. That makes it 10 losses in a row for the team coached by one of the most respected coaches in junior hockey. By the way, the Machine are 2nd in the NAHL in penalty minutes, led by Adam Kuhn. He has 85 penalty minutes, by far the most in the NAHL (32 more than the next guy), with double digit penalty minutes in 4 of his last 5 games. By comparison, the Express as a team have 132 penalty minutes, which is the lowest in the NAHL.
- The Bismarck Bobcats had lost 20 straight games to the North Iowa Outlaws going into tonight's game in Mason City. The Bobcats broke the streak tonight, getting 2 goals from former Express forward Jordan Singer, on the way to a 3-0 win.
- North Iowa had a 7 game unbeaten streak going into tonight's game. Read the article here: http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3730547 Misleading headline right?? Didn't the Express beat the Outlaws 2 weeks ago during this 7 game unbeaten streak?? According to Iowa math, it doesn't count as a loss. They needed to qualify it with "in regulation", or "7 game streak with at least 1 point". An overtime loss is a loss, and when you lose, you don't have an unbeaten streak.
- St Louis beat Topeka 4-2 in a matchup of the top two teams in the league (according to me).
- Only a couple more weeks until Election Day. I look forward to the day when I can flip on the TV and not see political ads. Explain to me how Coleman and Franken can justify spending tens of millions of dollars on TV commercials to win a senate position that pays $169,300 per year. I just want the world to get back to normal, with TV commercials for noble things like stool softeners, erectile dysfunction drugs, and yeast infection pills.
--BK
- Albert Lea just about beat Alexandria tonight. The Thunder led 4-2 half-way through the 3rd period, but gave up 3 goals, including the game winner with 4 seconds left. They are still winless on the year, but can't be taken lightly. The Express play them twice next weekend.
- Motor City lost again tonight to Marquette. That makes it 10 losses in a row for the team coached by one of the most respected coaches in junior hockey. By the way, the Machine are 2nd in the NAHL in penalty minutes, led by Adam Kuhn. He has 85 penalty minutes, by far the most in the NAHL (32 more than the next guy), with double digit penalty minutes in 4 of his last 5 games. By comparison, the Express as a team have 132 penalty minutes, which is the lowest in the NAHL.
- The Bismarck Bobcats had lost 20 straight games to the North Iowa Outlaws going into tonight's game in Mason City. The Bobcats broke the streak tonight, getting 2 goals from former Express forward Jordan Singer, on the way to a 3-0 win.
- North Iowa had a 7 game unbeaten streak going into tonight's game. Read the article here: http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3730547 Misleading headline right?? Didn't the Express beat the Outlaws 2 weeks ago during this 7 game unbeaten streak?? According to Iowa math, it doesn't count as a loss. They needed to qualify it with "in regulation", or "7 game streak with at least 1 point". An overtime loss is a loss, and when you lose, you don't have an unbeaten streak.
- St Louis beat Topeka 4-2 in a matchup of the top two teams in the league (according to me).
- Only a couple more weeks until Election Day. I look forward to the day when I can flip on the TV and not see political ads. Explain to me how Coleman and Franken can justify spending tens of millions of dollars on TV commercials to win a senate position that pays $169,300 per year. I just want the world to get back to normal, with TV commercials for noble things like stool softeners, erectile dysfunction drugs, and yeast infection pills.
--BK
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Player Movement and an Injury??
I am hearing rumors that the Express roster may have been reduced by 2 today. I won't post the names until I can confirm it's more than a rumor. If it is true, it isn't that big of a surprise, as the writing was on the wall for the last week or so. I will post more information as it becomes available.
Also hearing a rumor about a possible injury to an Express forward that will require surgery, and presumably ending this players season. Again, I won't post the name until I can confirm it's true.
My take: If the rumors are true, then the Express roster is down to 22 players. In my opinion, only the injured player will be missed on the ice. I would expect some new faces in the locker room in the near future to get the roster back up to 25, and I'm sure Cullen knew who he was going to bring in before the moves were made......if the rumore are true.
Predictions for tonight's NAHL games: (I'm 65-30 on the season)
Marquette over Motor City
Fairbanks over Kenai River
--BK
Also hearing a rumor about a possible injury to an Express forward that will require surgery, and presumably ending this players season. Again, I won't post the name until I can confirm it's true.
My take: If the rumors are true, then the Express roster is down to 22 players. In my opinion, only the injured player will be missed on the ice. I would expect some new faces in the locker room in the near future to get the roster back up to 25, and I'm sure Cullen knew who he was going to bring in before the moves were made......if the rumore are true.
Predictions for tonight's NAHL games: (I'm 65-30 on the season)
Marquette over Motor City
Fairbanks over Kenai River
--BK
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Cory Thorson on NHL Watch List
Express forward Cory Thorson was one of 9 current NAHL players on the NHL's Central Scouting Players to Watch List for the 2009 draft. You can read the entire release here: http://www.nahl.com/news/story.cfm?id=641
Congratulations Cory!!
My take: This is a nice feather in the Express organizations cap. Cullen and Fink know how to find talent, and the talent knows that Owatonna is one of the best places to play in the NAHL. Talent will get noticed no matter where they play, but the Express have the advantage of being a short drive for all the scouts in the metro area. As the word gets out that the Express train is back on track, things will only get better. The talent level will climb higher, and the Express will once again be the team everybody wants to play for.
--BK
Congratulations Cory!!
My take: This is a nice feather in the Express organizations cap. Cullen and Fink know how to find talent, and the talent knows that Owatonna is one of the best places to play in the NAHL. Talent will get noticed no matter where they play, but the Express have the advantage of being a short drive for all the scouts in the metro area. As the word gets out that the Express train is back on track, things will only get better. The talent level will climb higher, and the Express will once again be the team everybody wants to play for.
--BK
Monday, October 20, 2008
Big Kahuna's NAHL Power Rankings - 10/20/2008
Big Kahuna's NAHL Power Rankings - 10/20/2008
1. St Louis Bandits (0)
2. Topeka Roadrunners (+1)
3. Mahoning Valley Phantoms (-1)
4. Traverse City North Stars (0)
5. USNTDP (+2)
6. Wichita Falls Wildcats (0)
7. Alexandria Blizzard (-2)
8. Alaska Avalanche (+1)
9. North Iowa Outlaws (+1)
10. Bismarck Bobcats (-2)
11. Owatonna Express (+2)
12. Alpena Ice Diggers (+4)
13. Springfield Jr Blues (-2)
14. Marquette Rangers (-2)
15. Fairbanks Ice Dogs (-1)
16. Kenai River Brown Bears (-1)
17. Motor City Machine (0)
18. Wenatchee Wild (0)
19. Albert Lea Thunder (0)
The Express jump up a couple of spots this week coming off of Saturday's win over Bismarck. I moved Alpena up 4 spots based on their acquistion of former Express goalie Nick Graves. Graves immediately makes the Ice Diggers a better team, and they showed it last Saturday night with a big win over Mahoning Valley.
- I realize most, if not all of you, occasionaly read the NAHL forum at glassratter.com. I have been a member of that site for several years, and usually check it daily to see what is on everyone else's mind. For the record, the person posting on glassrattler as "Big kahuna" is not me. That should go without saying to anyone who has routinely read my blog, but I wanted to mention it anyways. Thank you to all the true Express fans who have contributed to the discussion here. I'll keep visiting glassrattler, and you should too, but just remember that there are several so called Express "fans" on there that have ulterior motives.
--BK
1. St Louis Bandits (0)
2. Topeka Roadrunners (+1)
3. Mahoning Valley Phantoms (-1)
4. Traverse City North Stars (0)
5. USNTDP (+2)
6. Wichita Falls Wildcats (0)
7. Alexandria Blizzard (-2)
8. Alaska Avalanche (+1)
9. North Iowa Outlaws (+1)
10. Bismarck Bobcats (-2)
11. Owatonna Express (+2)
12. Alpena Ice Diggers (+4)
13. Springfield Jr Blues (-2)
14. Marquette Rangers (-2)
15. Fairbanks Ice Dogs (-1)
16. Kenai River Brown Bears (-1)
17. Motor City Machine (0)
18. Wenatchee Wild (0)
19. Albert Lea Thunder (0)
The Express jump up a couple of spots this week coming off of Saturday's win over Bismarck. I moved Alpena up 4 spots based on their acquistion of former Express goalie Nick Graves. Graves immediately makes the Ice Diggers a better team, and they showed it last Saturday night with a big win over Mahoning Valley.
- I realize most, if not all of you, occasionaly read the NAHL forum at glassratter.com. I have been a member of that site for several years, and usually check it daily to see what is on everyone else's mind. For the record, the person posting on glassrattler as "Big kahuna" is not me. That should go without saying to anyone who has routinely read my blog, but I wanted to mention it anyways. Thank you to all the true Express fans who have contributed to the discussion here. I'll keep visiting glassrattler, and you should too, but just remember that there are several so called Express "fans" on there that have ulterior motives.
--BK
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Express Shutout Bobcats, Win 1-0
A nice win for the Express Saturday night. Stephen Carew scored the only goal of the game early in the first period, and a strong team-wide defensive effort in front of goalie Adam Buegler shutout the Bobcats the entire night. With the win, the Express closed some ground on the 3rd place Bobcats, and first place Alexandria Blizzard who lost to North Iowa. The Express are in 4th place in the division, 3 points behind Bismarck and 7 points behind co-leaders Alexandria and North Iowa, who have all played more games than the Express. The guys have rebounded from the 0-3 start at the Showcase by winning 4 out of their last 7 games.
Next up for the Express is a home game versus the North Iowa Outlaws this coming Saturday night. The Express have split a pair of games this season with the Outlaws in Mason City. Bring your buckets/airhorns/cowbells, and be ready to make some noise.
Today's NAHL Predictions: (I was 6-2 Saturday/63-30 for the season)
St Louis over Springfield
Topeka over Wenatchee
See you at the rink.
--BK
Next up for the Express is a home game versus the North Iowa Outlaws this coming Saturday night. The Express have split a pair of games this season with the Outlaws in Mason City. Bring your buckets/airhorns/cowbells, and be ready to make some noise.
Today's NAHL Predictions: (I was 6-2 Saturday/63-30 for the season)
St Louis over Springfield
Topeka over Wenatchee
See you at the rink.
--BK
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Tonight's Game Preview & Predictions
The Express hit the ice tonight for a 7:00pm rematch with the Bismarck Bobcats. The Bobcats beat the Express last Saturday night 2-0, and the guys will be looking to make sure that doesn't happen again. The Bobcats lost to the Outlaws last night in Mason City, while the Express had the night off. That should give our guys an advantage with fresher legs and fewer bumps and bruises. The Bobcats had a great defensive gameplan last week which really shutdown the Express offense, but Coach Cullen has had a week to gameplan a counterstrike. Hopefully the ice conditions are better tonight, and the Express can use their speed advantage to score some goals.
Big Kahuna's Prediction: Express 3 - Bobcats 2
The Express know what the Bobcats want to do, and have the fresher legs. I think the defense and the goaltending will be just as good as last weekend, and the offense will get on track tonight and get some goals. 2 points for the good guys.
Predictions for the other NAHL games tonight: (7-0 last night/57-28 on the season)
Topeka over Wenatchee
Mahoning Valley over Alpena
USNTDP over Marquette
Traverse City over Motor City
Alexandria over North Iowa
St Louis over Springfield
Alaska over Kenai River
See you at the rink!!
--Big Kahuna
Big Kahuna's Prediction: Express 3 - Bobcats 2
The Express know what the Bobcats want to do, and have the fresher legs. I think the defense and the goaltending will be just as good as last weekend, and the offense will get on track tonight and get some goals. 2 points for the good guys.
Predictions for the other NAHL games tonight: (7-0 last night/57-28 on the season)
Topeka over Wenatchee
Mahoning Valley over Alpena
USNTDP over Marquette
Traverse City over Motor City
Alexandria over North Iowa
St Louis over Springfield
Alaska over Kenai River
See you at the rink!!
--Big Kahuna
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Chuck Norris counted to infinity......twice.
I realize I'm about two years behind on the whole Chuck Norris thing, but this one struck me funny, and I'm tired of calling everything "tidbits".
- http://www.mankatofreepress.com/columns/local_story_289182853.html?start:int=0 Click on the link for a story about former Express forward Jason Wiley from the Mankato Free Press.
- The redesigned official Express website is up and running. Most of the pages are still under construction, but at least they are making progress.
- Prediction for tonight's game: Topeka over Wenatchee. I'm 49-28 on the season with my predictions.
--BK
- http://www.mankatofreepress.com/columns/local_story_289182853.html?start:int=0 Click on the link for a story about former Express forward Jason Wiley from the Mankato Free Press.
- The redesigned official Express website is up and running. Most of the pages are still under construction, but at least they are making progress.
- Prediction for tonight's game: Topeka over Wenatchee. I'm 49-28 on the season with my predictions.
--BK
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Video of Buegler's Game Clinching Save
Buegler save leads to Express win
Click on the link above (Microsoft Media Player Required) to see video of Express goalie Adam Buegler's save that clinched the win over North Iowa last Friday night. It was the 4th round of the shootout, with the Express leading 2-0 on shootout goals by Palmiscno and Bournazos. The Outlaw's Alex Carlson tries to go top shelf on the glove side, and Buegler knocks it down in mid air. Beauty, eh??
Thanks to the NAHL and B2 Network for the video.
--BK
Click on the link above (Microsoft Media Player Required) to see video of Express goalie Adam Buegler's save that clinched the win over North Iowa last Friday night. It was the 4th round of the shootout, with the Express leading 2-0 on shootout goals by Palmiscno and Bournazos. The Outlaw's Alex Carlson tries to go top shelf on the glove side, and Buegler knocks it down in mid air. Beauty, eh??
Thanks to the NAHL and B2 Network for the video.
--BK
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Big Kahuna's NAHL Power Rankings - 10/14/2008
Big Kahuna's NAHL Power Rankings - 10/14/2008
1. St Louis Bandits (+2)
2. Mahoning Valley Phantoms (0)
3. Topeka Roadrunners (-2)
4. Traverse City North Stars (0)
5. Alexandria Blizzard (+2)
6. Wichita Falls (0)
7. USNTDP (-2)
8. Bismarck Bobcats (+3)
9. Alaska Avalanche (0)
10. North Iowa Outlaws (-2)
11. Springfield Jr Blues (-1)
12. Marquette Rangers (0)
13. Owatonna Express (0)
14. Fairbanks Ice Dogs (0)
15. Kenai River Brown Bears (+1)
16. Alpena Ice Diggers (+1)
17. Motor City Machine (-2)
18. Wenatchee Wild (0)
19. Albert Lea Thunder (0)
A new #1 this week with St Louis claiming the top spot from Topeka who drops two spots after a somewhat surprising loss to Fairbanks. The Express stay at #13 after last weekend's split.
- Former Express goalie Nick Graves is back in the NAHL. He spent the preseason with Sioux City (USHL), was released and then picked up by Green Bay (USHL), and now has ended up back with the Alpena Ice Diggers. He spent the bulk of last season with Alpena after his brief stint with the Express.
- Things continue to get worse down in Albert Lea. The Thunder are off to an 0-7-1 start to the season, and now Assistant Coach Brian Murphy has resigned. In addition, the Thunder's #1 goalie, Brady Sand has asked to be released. If you're scoring at home (or even if you're by yourself), that's 3 coaches and 3 players who have walked away in the short history of the Thunder.
See you at the rink.
--BK
1. St Louis Bandits (+2)
2. Mahoning Valley Phantoms (0)
3. Topeka Roadrunners (-2)
4. Traverse City North Stars (0)
5. Alexandria Blizzard (+2)
6. Wichita Falls (0)
7. USNTDP (-2)
8. Bismarck Bobcats (+3)
9. Alaska Avalanche (0)
10. North Iowa Outlaws (-2)
11. Springfield Jr Blues (-1)
12. Marquette Rangers (0)
13. Owatonna Express (0)
14. Fairbanks Ice Dogs (0)
15. Kenai River Brown Bears (+1)
16. Alpena Ice Diggers (+1)
17. Motor City Machine (-2)
18. Wenatchee Wild (0)
19. Albert Lea Thunder (0)
A new #1 this week with St Louis claiming the top spot from Topeka who drops two spots after a somewhat surprising loss to Fairbanks. The Express stay at #13 after last weekend's split.
- Former Express goalie Nick Graves is back in the NAHL. He spent the preseason with Sioux City (USHL), was released and then picked up by Green Bay (USHL), and now has ended up back with the Alpena Ice Diggers. He spent the bulk of last season with Alpena after his brief stint with the Express.
- Things continue to get worse down in Albert Lea. The Thunder are off to an 0-7-1 start to the season, and now Assistant Coach Brian Murphy has resigned. In addition, the Thunder's #1 goalie, Brady Sand has asked to be released. If you're scoring at home (or even if you're by yourself), that's 3 coaches and 3 players who have walked away in the short history of the Thunder.
See you at the rink.
--BK
Monday, October 13, 2008
Express Coaches Show Tidbits
- Coach Cullen - "We're not where we want to be yet" - when talking about the split of last weekend's game.
- Coach Cullen - "We haven't found the right line combinations yet"
- Coach Cullen - "I think we're going to have a very good team come shootout time" That should come as no surprise, as some wise blogger pointed that out a couple of weeks ago. He went on to say that he turned in the 5 names for the shootout, but could easily have turned in another 5 names. That's great, but let's hope we don't need to use them very often.
- Coach Cullen - When asked about the goalie situation with Adam Buegler and Jason Horstman, Cullen said that it gives him "As good a one/two punch as I've ever had", although he hasn't decided what the rotation will be.
- Coach Cullen - "He likes the way kids develop in our program" Talking about Air Force coach Frank Serratore, who Cullen played junior hockey for back in the day. Current Express forward Stephen Carew committed last week to play hockey for the Air Force Academy, where he will join former Express players Tim Kirby, Kevin Wright, and Scott Kozlak.
- Coach Cullen - "I like our skill level" and "I've seen all the teams in our division and I like our chances" He wasn't necessarily talking about a division championship, but I think he was saying he likes our chances of being competitive within the division.
- Roy Koenig - "We have the best record of the 3 expansion teams" - Express fans have high expectations for this team, and we sometimes forget that we are an expansion team.
- Stephen Carew - "I love the way Cullen has us play" He went on to explain the differences between the USHL (where he played last year) and the NAHL. He said the NAHL is a lot more exciting and fun because the style of play is more open compared to the dump and chase/neutral zone traps that the USHL teams play. He also had a funny story about him and fellow teammate John Kruse trick-or-treating dressed as Ronald McDonald and the Hamburgler when they were kids growing up in Eden Prairie.
Look for this week's power rankings sometime tomorrow. See you at the rink.
--BK
- Coach Cullen - "We haven't found the right line combinations yet"
- Coach Cullen - "I think we're going to have a very good team come shootout time" That should come as no surprise, as some wise blogger pointed that out a couple of weeks ago. He went on to say that he turned in the 5 names for the shootout, but could easily have turned in another 5 names. That's great, but let's hope we don't need to use them very often.
- Coach Cullen - When asked about the goalie situation with Adam Buegler and Jason Horstman, Cullen said that it gives him "As good a one/two punch as I've ever had", although he hasn't decided what the rotation will be.
- Coach Cullen - "He likes the way kids develop in our program" Talking about Air Force coach Frank Serratore, who Cullen played junior hockey for back in the day. Current Express forward Stephen Carew committed last week to play hockey for the Air Force Academy, where he will join former Express players Tim Kirby, Kevin Wright, and Scott Kozlak.
- Coach Cullen - "I like our skill level" and "I've seen all the teams in our division and I like our chances" He wasn't necessarily talking about a division championship, but I think he was saying he likes our chances of being competitive within the division.
- Roy Koenig - "We have the best record of the 3 expansion teams" - Express fans have high expectations for this team, and we sometimes forget that we are an expansion team.
- Stephen Carew - "I love the way Cullen has us play" He went on to explain the differences between the USHL (where he played last year) and the NAHL. He said the NAHL is a lot more exciting and fun because the style of play is more open compared to the dump and chase/neutral zone traps that the USHL teams play. He also had a funny story about him and fellow teammate John Kruse trick-or-treating dressed as Ronald McDonald and the Hamburgler when they were kids growing up in Eden Prairie.
Look for this week's power rankings sometime tomorrow. See you at the rink.
--BK
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Sunday Evening Editorial
There has been some discussion the last few days on the blog and at the rink about player movement. Basically what everyone is wondering is: Is Cullen done making roster moves?? Now obviously, I cannot speak for Coach Cullen, so keep in mind these are only my opinions.
I don't think the Express are done tweaking the roster and here's why:
1. If the players don't have to worry about the roster spot they could become complacent. It's good for the guys to be worried about getting released or traded. The prospect of packing their bags should keep them motivated, not only for the games but on the practice ice, in the gym, at school, and in the community. Not to say it would happen here, but if a head coach came out and said "That's it, we're done making roster moves" it would take away some of the urgency the players should feel.
2. Coach Cullen has a history of tweaking the roster long into the season. Think back to the first 2 years of the Express under Cullen. I won't list the specifics, but the roster was far from solidified in early October of those years. In addition, several of the best players to ever wear an Express jersey came to the team in the middle of the season. (Bickel, Kozlak, Beaudoin, Hopper, etc...)
3. Coach Cullen basically said there will be. On the Express Coaches Show last Monday, Cullen said there will be small roster changes still coming. He also said that "On a daily basis we hear from kids from all over the country that want to play here." He then explained that if a player becomes available that can help the Express, that they will get a look. He wouldn't be doing his job if he didn't take the opportunity to better this team.
4. Players plateau. Player "X" and player "Y" make the team at tryout camp. They look exactly the same, and play equally well. However, player "X" is playing the best hockey he is capable of, while player "Y" is playing only at 50% of what he is capable of. Through training camp and the early part of the season, player "X" plays the same, while player "Y" works hard and elevates his game from 50% to 70% of what he is capable of. Which player do you want on the team?? Sometimes it takes half a season for a players true ability to be known.
This is big time hockey, and we expect and deserve a team with the best 25 guys we can get. If that means that some players have to go to make room for new guys, than so be it. It happens in every sport at every level above high school. That doesn't mean I don't feel bad for them when they go, and I truly hope they succeed wherever they end up. That being said, I really like the 25 guys on the current roster, and can't wait to see them blossom into a winning team.
--Big Kahuna
I don't think the Express are done tweaking the roster and here's why:
1. If the players don't have to worry about the roster spot they could become complacent. It's good for the guys to be worried about getting released or traded. The prospect of packing their bags should keep them motivated, not only for the games but on the practice ice, in the gym, at school, and in the community. Not to say it would happen here, but if a head coach came out and said "That's it, we're done making roster moves" it would take away some of the urgency the players should feel.
2. Coach Cullen has a history of tweaking the roster long into the season. Think back to the first 2 years of the Express under Cullen. I won't list the specifics, but the roster was far from solidified in early October of those years. In addition, several of the best players to ever wear an Express jersey came to the team in the middle of the season. (Bickel, Kozlak, Beaudoin, Hopper, etc...)
3. Coach Cullen basically said there will be. On the Express Coaches Show last Monday, Cullen said there will be small roster changes still coming. He also said that "On a daily basis we hear from kids from all over the country that want to play here." He then explained that if a player becomes available that can help the Express, that they will get a look. He wouldn't be doing his job if he didn't take the opportunity to better this team.
4. Players plateau. Player "X" and player "Y" make the team at tryout camp. They look exactly the same, and play equally well. However, player "X" is playing the best hockey he is capable of, while player "Y" is playing only at 50% of what he is capable of. Through training camp and the early part of the season, player "X" plays the same, while player "Y" works hard and elevates his game from 50% to 70% of what he is capable of. Which player do you want on the team?? Sometimes it takes half a season for a players true ability to be known.
This is big time hockey, and we expect and deserve a team with the best 25 guys we can get. If that means that some players have to go to make room for new guys, than so be it. It happens in every sport at every level above high school. That doesn't mean I don't feel bad for them when they go, and I truly hope they succeed wherever they end up. That being said, I really like the 25 guys on the current roster, and can't wait to see them blossom into a winning team.
--Big Kahuna
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Tonight's Game Preview & Predictions
Owatonna Express vs. Bismarck Bobcats - 7:00pm - 4 Seasons Centre in Owatonna
Bismarck comes in with a record of 4-4-1 off of a 6-2 victory in Albert Lea Friday night. They are currently tied for second place in the Central Division with North Iowa, 3 points ahead of the Express. This will be the first of 12 meetings between the two teams this season, and the return of former Express players Jordan Singer, Derek Kohles, and Devin Schmitt.
Big Kahuna's Keys to the Game:
- The Express need to contain Bismarck's top line of Cody Keefer, Nicholas Jensen, and Jordan Singer. That line has accounted for 14 goals this season. The rest of the Bobcat roster has only scored 9 goals in their 9 games played.
- The Express need to find a find a way to score some goals on Bobcat goalie Dave Bosner who has all 4 of the Bobcats wins, a 1.92 goals against average, and leads the NAHL in minutes played. When our guys get chances, they have to finish.
Big Kahuna's Prediction: Express 3 - Bobcats 1
It's vitally important for the Express to come out with a strong effort tonight on the heels of the victory over North Iowa. The Express undoubtedly gained some confidence last night, and they have an opportunity to keep that ball rolling at home tonight, and they will do just that. I think our defense will corral their top line, and we'll get enough offense to make it a 4 point weekend.
Predictions for the other NAHL games tonight: (I was 7-0 last night, 45-23 on the season)
Marquette over Alpena
Traverse City over USNTDP
Springfield over Alexandria
St Louis over Motor City
North Iowa over Albert Lea
Alaska over Kenai River
Topeka over Fairbanks
See you at the rink.
--BK
Bismarck comes in with a record of 4-4-1 off of a 6-2 victory in Albert Lea Friday night. They are currently tied for second place in the Central Division with North Iowa, 3 points ahead of the Express. This will be the first of 12 meetings between the two teams this season, and the return of former Express players Jordan Singer, Derek Kohles, and Devin Schmitt.
Big Kahuna's Keys to the Game:
- The Express need to contain Bismarck's top line of Cody Keefer, Nicholas Jensen, and Jordan Singer. That line has accounted for 14 goals this season. The rest of the Bobcat roster has only scored 9 goals in their 9 games played.
- The Express need to find a find a way to score some goals on Bobcat goalie Dave Bosner who has all 4 of the Bobcats wins, a 1.92 goals against average, and leads the NAHL in minutes played. When our guys get chances, they have to finish.
Big Kahuna's Prediction: Express 3 - Bobcats 1
It's vitally important for the Express to come out with a strong effort tonight on the heels of the victory over North Iowa. The Express undoubtedly gained some confidence last night, and they have an opportunity to keep that ball rolling at home tonight, and they will do just that. I think our defense will corral their top line, and we'll get enough offense to make it a 4 point weekend.
Predictions for the other NAHL games tonight: (I was 7-0 last night, 45-23 on the season)
Marquette over Alpena
Traverse City over USNTDP
Springfield over Alexandria
St Louis over Motor City
North Iowa over Albert Lea
Alaska over Kenai River
Topeka over Fairbanks
See you at the rink.
--BK
Friday, October 10, 2008
"Owatonna is not a very good team"
The title of this thread was a quote from the North Iowa Outlaws radio announcer tonight in his pre-game show, before the Express went out and beat the Outlaws 3-2 in a game that was decided in a shootout. Admittedly, I took his quote out of context, but I figured that title would get your attention. The point he was making when he said it was that the Outlaws need to go out and win these early season matchups when the Express are not playing very well, because history shows that Cullen coached teams play better as the season progresses. The statistic he used was that the Express won 70% of their games after Christmas in Cullen's first two years. The Outlaws radio guy was actually quite complementary of Coach Cullen, and does a fairly good job of calling the game, although he's no Roy Koenig.
In hindsight, I wish I had ponied up the $7 to get the B2 video as it sounded like an entertaining game. The Express jumped out to a 2-0 lead on goals by Dane Erickson and Cory Thorson, and things looked good for the Express. However, the Outlaws got a short-handed goal followed by a Brandon Brodhag goal a few minutes later to tie the game. A scoreless third period and overtime sent the game to a shootout. Michael Palmiscno and Chris Bournazos scored shootout goals for the Express, and goalie Adam Buegler didn't allow a goal by the Outlaws, and the Express pull out of Mason City with a nice victory and an important 2 points in the standings.
Next up for the Express is a home game Saturday night at the 4 Seasons Centre. The Express will get their first look at the Bismarck Bobcats. As nice as a win tonight was, it doesn't mean much if you don't follow that up with a strong performance on your home ice tomorrow. Bring your noise makers, and don't forget the first 500 fans get a free Express schedule magnet.
See you at the rink.
--Big Kahuna
In hindsight, I wish I had ponied up the $7 to get the B2 video as it sounded like an entertaining game. The Express jumped out to a 2-0 lead on goals by Dane Erickson and Cory Thorson, and things looked good for the Express. However, the Outlaws got a short-handed goal followed by a Brandon Brodhag goal a few minutes later to tie the game. A scoreless third period and overtime sent the game to a shootout. Michael Palmiscno and Chris Bournazos scored shootout goals for the Express, and goalie Adam Buegler didn't allow a goal by the Outlaws, and the Express pull out of Mason City with a nice victory and an important 2 points in the standings.
Next up for the Express is a home game Saturday night at the 4 Seasons Centre. The Express will get their first look at the Bismarck Bobcats. As nice as a win tonight was, it doesn't mean much if you don't follow that up with a strong performance on your home ice tomorrow. Bring your noise makers, and don't forget the first 500 fans get a free Express schedule magnet.
See you at the rink.
--Big Kahuna
Tonight's Predictions
The Express tangle with the North Iowa Outlaws tonight in Mason City. This is the second meeting between the two teams this season, with the Outlaws beating the Express 4-1 two weeks ago, also in Mason City.
Big Kahuna's Prediction: Express 5 - Outlaws 3
The Express finally put together a full 60 minute performance, and pull out a victory tonight. The new guys have had a week of practice to gel with their teammates and learn the system, and it pays off tonight. Look for a big game from Gehrett Sargis and Chris Darnell, and a strong performance in goal from whichever goalie gets the start.
Predictions for the other NAHL games tonight: (I'm 38-23 on the season)
Marquette over Alpena
Traverse City over USNTDP
Alexandria over Springfield
Bismarck over Albert Lea
Alaska over Kenai River
Topeka over Fairbanks
--BK
Big Kahuna's Prediction: Express 5 - Outlaws 3
The Express finally put together a full 60 minute performance, and pull out a victory tonight. The new guys have had a week of practice to gel with their teammates and learn the system, and it pays off tonight. Look for a big game from Gehrett Sargis and Chris Darnell, and a strong performance in goal from whichever goalie gets the start.
Predictions for the other NAHL games tonight: (I'm 38-23 on the season)
Marquette over Alpena
Traverse City over USNTDP
Alexandria over Springfield
Bismarck over Albert Lea
Alaska over Kenai River
Topeka over Fairbanks
--BK
Thursday, October 9, 2008
One Goalie In & One Goalie Out
The Express officially added goalie Jason Horstman to the roster today, and removed goalie Pat Arnason. Per Pointstreak, Horstman will wear jersey #35.
My take: I had quietly been worried since the beginning of the season about our goaltending situation. If Adam Buegler ever needed a night off, or got injured we could have been in trouble. I haven't seen Horstman play this season, but he was good enough to make the preseason roster in Tri-City (USHL), and played at Shattuck. He wouldn't be here if he wasn't an upgrade at that position. Whether he backs up Buegler, Buegler backs him up, or they share time in the net, I feel much better about our goaltending situation.
--BK
My take: I had quietly been worried since the beginning of the season about our goaltending situation. If Adam Buegler ever needed a night off, or got injured we could have been in trouble. I haven't seen Horstman play this season, but he was good enough to make the preseason roster in Tri-City (USHL), and played at Shattuck. He wouldn't be here if he wasn't an upgrade at that position. Whether he backs up Buegler, Buegler backs him up, or they share time in the net, I feel much better about our goaltending situation.
--BK
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Stephen Carew Committing to Air Force
It's being reported on the Western College Hockey Blog that Express forward Stephen Carew has committed to play college hockey at the Air Force Academy. He will join former Express players Kevin Wright, Scott Kozlak, and Tim Kirby with the Falcons. This is the first of hopefully many, college commitments from the current team. The other guys on the current roster who are in their last year of junior eligibility, and will be looking to commit this season are: Adam Buegler, Troy Puente, Michael Palmiscno, Joe Beaudette, and Troy McDonald.
Congratulations Stephen!
- I got an anonymous tip that the Express have a new goaltender in town that came from Tri-City of the USHL and used to play at Shattuck in Faribault. A little bit of searching tells me it must be Jason Horstman. This is a smart move by the Express. The worst that can happen is that it will put pressure on the current goalies and force them to raise their game. The question that needs to be answered is whose roster spot does he take??
--BK
Congratulations Stephen!
- I got an anonymous tip that the Express have a new goaltender in town that came from Tri-City of the USHL and used to play at Shattuck in Faribault. A little bit of searching tells me it must be Jason Horstman. This is a smart move by the Express. The worst that can happen is that it will put pressure on the current goalies and force them to raise their game. The question that needs to be answered is whose roster spot does he take??
--BK
Monday, October 6, 2008
Big Kahuna's NAHL Power Rankings - 10/6/2008 & Express Coaches Show Tidbits
Here's the most recent edition of Big Kahuna's NAHL Power Rankings.
1. Topeka Roadrunners (0)
2. Mahoning Valley Phantoms (+1)
3. St. Louis Bandits (+2)
4. Traverse City North Stars (+2)
5. USNTDP (-1)
6. Wichita Falls (-4)
7. Alexandria Blizzard (+3)
8. North Iowa (+3)
9. Alaska Avalanche (-1)
10. Springfield Jr Blues (-1)
11. Bismarck Bobcats (-4)
12. Marquette Rangers (0)
13. Owatonna Express (+1)
14. Fairbanks Ice Dogs (+1)
15. Motor City Machine (-2)
16. Kenai River Brown Bears (+1)
17. Alpena Ice Diggers (-1)
18. Wenatchee Wild (0)
19. Albert Lea Thunder (0)
With the roster moves last week, and what I saw the first two periods of Friday's game, I feel comfortable moving the Express up one notch this week. Wichita Falls and Bismarck each fell down 4 spots after getting swept last weekend, while Motor City fell a couple of spots after getting swept at home for the second straight weekend. The St. Louis Bandits continue to climb the ladder after taking 2 games from Wichita Falls.
- Former Express goalie Nick Graves was picked up by the Green Bay Gamblers (USHL) after getting cut last week by the Sioux City Musketeers (USHL). This is his second stint with the Gamblers as he played with there in 2006/07.
From the Express Coaches show tonight:
- Cullen talked about the roster moves last week. Sargis was a guy they had an eye on for awhile. Darnell was roommates with Express forward Alex Niestrom at Culver Academy last year.
- Dmitry Lugin came to the Express from the Fargo Force (USHL) because they had too many import players on their roster. Cullen knows Fargo coach Dean Blais, as they are from the same hometown, and Force assistant coach Chad Johnson was the coach of the Fargo-Moorhead Jets before they folded.
- Cullen said there will probably be small roster changes still coming, and if a player becomes available that can help the Express they will get a look. He also said that "On a daily basis we hear from kids from all over the country that want to play here." That bodes well for the future of Express hockey.
- Player interview #1 was Nick Carson. He talked about his struggles with injuries last year as he bounced around from Waterloo and Des Moines in the USHL, and Alexandria in the NAHL. He said the Express are "one of the fastest teams in the league", and the fastest player would be either Tony McDonald or Chris Bournazos. Nick will have one year of junior eligibility left after this season.
- Player interview #2 was Tim Smith. He talked about playing high school hockey in Wisconsin, and about helping build a Habitat For Humanity house last weekend.
- Cullen wrapped up the show by talking about how he wants Owatonna to be a difficult place for opposing teams to play and he wants the Express crowd to be more boisterous and loud. He also previewed this coming weekends matchups with North Iowa and Bismarck.
See you at the rink.
--BK
1. Topeka Roadrunners (0)
2. Mahoning Valley Phantoms (+1)
3. St. Louis Bandits (+2)
4. Traverse City North Stars (+2)
5. USNTDP (-1)
6. Wichita Falls (-4)
7. Alexandria Blizzard (+3)
8. North Iowa (+3)
9. Alaska Avalanche (-1)
10. Springfield Jr Blues (-1)
11. Bismarck Bobcats (-4)
12. Marquette Rangers (0)
13. Owatonna Express (+1)
14. Fairbanks Ice Dogs (+1)
15. Motor City Machine (-2)
16. Kenai River Brown Bears (+1)
17. Alpena Ice Diggers (-1)
18. Wenatchee Wild (0)
19. Albert Lea Thunder (0)
With the roster moves last week, and what I saw the first two periods of Friday's game, I feel comfortable moving the Express up one notch this week. Wichita Falls and Bismarck each fell down 4 spots after getting swept last weekend, while Motor City fell a couple of spots after getting swept at home for the second straight weekend. The St. Louis Bandits continue to climb the ladder after taking 2 games from Wichita Falls.
- Former Express goalie Nick Graves was picked up by the Green Bay Gamblers (USHL) after getting cut last week by the Sioux City Musketeers (USHL). This is his second stint with the Gamblers as he played with there in 2006/07.
From the Express Coaches show tonight:
- Cullen talked about the roster moves last week. Sargis was a guy they had an eye on for awhile. Darnell was roommates with Express forward Alex Niestrom at Culver Academy last year.
- Dmitry Lugin came to the Express from the Fargo Force (USHL) because they had too many import players on their roster. Cullen knows Fargo coach Dean Blais, as they are from the same hometown, and Force assistant coach Chad Johnson was the coach of the Fargo-Moorhead Jets before they folded.
- Cullen said there will probably be small roster changes still coming, and if a player becomes available that can help the Express they will get a look. He also said that "On a daily basis we hear from kids from all over the country that want to play here." That bodes well for the future of Express hockey.
- Player interview #1 was Nick Carson. He talked about his struggles with injuries last year as he bounced around from Waterloo and Des Moines in the USHL, and Alexandria in the NAHL. He said the Express are "one of the fastest teams in the league", and the fastest player would be either Tony McDonald or Chris Bournazos. Nick will have one year of junior eligibility left after this season.
- Player interview #2 was Tim Smith. He talked about playing high school hockey in Wisconsin, and about helping build a Habitat For Humanity house last weekend.
- Cullen wrapped up the show by talking about how he wants Owatonna to be a difficult place for opposing teams to play and he wants the Express crowd to be more boisterous and loud. He also previewed this coming weekends matchups with North Iowa and Bismarck.
See you at the rink.
--BK
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Postgame Report: Express lose 4-2
The Express made it 4 for 4 Friday night at the 4 Seasons Centre. 4 years of Express hockey in Owatonna, and 4 years of a disappointing result for the home-opener. I won't bother with a detailed recap of the game, as you can read one here: http://owatonna.com/news.php?viewStory=29701
...or check out the boxscore here: http://www.pointstreak.com/prostats/boxscore.html?gameid=763849
My take: I will never be happy with a loss, but I'm not all that disappointed with last night's result. I thought the Express played well for the bulk of the game. They passed the puck well, and had success controlling the puck in the offensive end. They had their best game this season in regards to taking penalties, although once again they had to kill off an extended 5 on 3. A couple of defensive breakdowns, and the Blizzard out hustling our guys led to the deciding goals late in the 3rd period.
Big Kahuna's Stars of the Game:
1. Dylan Porter - Played hard all night long. Really impressed me with his hustle on both ends of the ice. Layed a nice hit on 6'7" Blizzard defenseman Taylor Vickorek.
2. Troy Puente - He is so calm on the ice and plays really smart. He broke up a couple of odd-man rushes for the Blizzard. He just doesn't get rattled.
Prediction Results:
I missed on the Express game, but nailed the other 4 games to finish 4-1 (35-20 on the year)
Predictions for tonight's games:
Traverse City over Alpena
Mahoning Valley over Motor City
Bismarck over North Iowa
Alexandria over Albert Lea
Wichita Falls over St Louis
Fairbanks over Kenai River
Next up for the Express is a pair of games next weekend. Friday night the Express travel to Mason City for a game against the North Iowa Outlaws, and Saturday night the Express get their first look at the Bismarck Bobcats at the 4 Seasons Centre in Owatonna.
See you at the rink.
--BK
...or check out the boxscore here: http://www.pointstreak.com/prostats/boxscore.html?gameid=763849
My take: I will never be happy with a loss, but I'm not all that disappointed with last night's result. I thought the Express played well for the bulk of the game. They passed the puck well, and had success controlling the puck in the offensive end. They had their best game this season in regards to taking penalties, although once again they had to kill off an extended 5 on 3. A couple of defensive breakdowns, and the Blizzard out hustling our guys led to the deciding goals late in the 3rd period.
Big Kahuna's Stars of the Game:
1. Dylan Porter - Played hard all night long. Really impressed me with his hustle on both ends of the ice. Layed a nice hit on 6'7" Blizzard defenseman Taylor Vickorek.
2. Troy Puente - He is so calm on the ice and plays really smart. He broke up a couple of odd-man rushes for the Blizzard. He just doesn't get rattled.
Prediction Results:
I missed on the Express game, but nailed the other 4 games to finish 4-1 (35-20 on the year)
Predictions for tonight's games:
Traverse City over Alpena
Mahoning Valley over Motor City
Bismarck over North Iowa
Alexandria over Albert Lea
Wichita Falls over St Louis
Fairbanks over Kenai River
Next up for the Express is a pair of games next weekend. Friday night the Express travel to Mason City for a game against the North Iowa Outlaws, and Saturday night the Express get their first look at the Bismarck Bobcats at the 4 Seasons Centre in Owatonna.
See you at the rink.
--BK
Friday, October 3, 2008
Game Day - Home Opener Preview & Predictions
It could be May 15, 2008, April 13, 2008, or April 1, 2008. Maybe it's September 7, 2007 or even May 6th, 2007, or some other date. No matter which date you would personally choose, Express fans have been waiting. Waiting since May 15, 2008, when the NAHL's Board of Governors approved the application for a team in Owatonna. Waiting since April 13, 2008, when the Alexandria Blizzard beat the Express 5-2 in game 5 of their first round playoff series, ending the season. Waiting since April 1, 2008, when supporters of junior hockey gathered at the Owatonna Country Club and decided that junior hockey does have a place in Owatonna. Waiting since September 7, 2007 when the NAHL approved the transfer of the Southern Minnesota Express to the BAM ownership group, and Coaches Cullen and Fink said goodbye. Waiting since May 6, 2007, when the Express beat the Fairbanks Ice Dogs to win 3rd place at the Robertson Cup. We have been waiting, but.........................the waiting ends tonight.
The locally owned, Pat Cullen coached Owatonna Express take the ice tonight at 6:00pm for their home opener against the Alexandria Blizzard. The Express are coming off a 5-2 victory over the Albert Lea Thunder last Saturday, and the Blizzard come to Owatonna after getting swept in Bismarck last weekend. The Express have upgraded their roster this week with the addition of several new players, and the Blizzard take the ice with a veteran squad coming off a Robertson Cup appearance.
Big Kahuna's Keys to the Game:
- The Express have to keep Blizzard forward Jerry Freismuth in check. Freismuth is the best player in the division, and the Express need to shut him down and force somebody else to beat them.
- The Express defensive corp needs to take another step forward performance-wise. Limit the odd-man rushes, don't give up second chances, and control the point on the power play.
- Production from the new guys. Goals would be nice, but they need to dictate the play when they are on the ice and skate solid shifts on both ends.
Big Kahuna's Prediction: Express 4 - Blizzard 3
The Express will get a boost from finally playing in front of their own fans, and win a nailbiter in overtime or a shootout. In an ideal world, the Express would win every game in regulation, but I'm excited to see what our guys can do in a shootout situation. This year's team has been able to finish breakaways and odd-man rushes by putting the puck in the net, something last year's team flat out sucked at. The 3 previous teams with "Express" on the front of their jerseys have never won their home opener, but that changes tonight.
Predictions for the other NAHL game tonight (I'm 31-19 on the season):
Traverse City over Alpena
Mahoning Valley over Motor City
Fairbanks over Kenai River
North Iowa over Bismarck
Some folks in the comments section were wondering what the roster looks like as of today, so here's what I believe is the current 25 man roster:
Goalies - Buegler, Arnason
Defensmen - Fiala, Smith, Puente, Carson, Starr, Tolkinen, Fahnhorst, Sloat
Forwards - Bournazos, Beaudette, Porter, Kruse, Daley, McDonald, Vierling, Thorson, Erickson, Carew, Palmiscno, Lugin, Niestrom, Darnell, Sargis
Don't forget that the game starts at 6pm, and tickets will be available at the door. Also, the Lamont Cranston Band will be playing next door after the game. So when you're done cheering the Express to a victory, move the party over to the Beer Garden.
See you at the rink!!
--Big Kahuna
The locally owned, Pat Cullen coached Owatonna Express take the ice tonight at 6:00pm for their home opener against the Alexandria Blizzard. The Express are coming off a 5-2 victory over the Albert Lea Thunder last Saturday, and the Blizzard come to Owatonna after getting swept in Bismarck last weekend. The Express have upgraded their roster this week with the addition of several new players, and the Blizzard take the ice with a veteran squad coming off a Robertson Cup appearance.
Big Kahuna's Keys to the Game:
- The Express have to keep Blizzard forward Jerry Freismuth in check. Freismuth is the best player in the division, and the Express need to shut him down and force somebody else to beat them.
- The Express defensive corp needs to take another step forward performance-wise. Limit the odd-man rushes, don't give up second chances, and control the point on the power play.
- Production from the new guys. Goals would be nice, but they need to dictate the play when they are on the ice and skate solid shifts on both ends.
Big Kahuna's Prediction: Express 4 - Blizzard 3
The Express will get a boost from finally playing in front of their own fans, and win a nailbiter in overtime or a shootout. In an ideal world, the Express would win every game in regulation, but I'm excited to see what our guys can do in a shootout situation. This year's team has been able to finish breakaways and odd-man rushes by putting the puck in the net, something last year's team flat out sucked at. The 3 previous teams with "Express" on the front of their jerseys have never won their home opener, but that changes tonight.
Predictions for the other NAHL game tonight (I'm 31-19 on the season):
Traverse City over Alpena
Mahoning Valley over Motor City
Fairbanks over Kenai River
North Iowa over Bismarck
Some folks in the comments section were wondering what the roster looks like as of today, so here's what I believe is the current 25 man roster:
Goalies - Buegler, Arnason
Defensmen - Fiala, Smith, Puente, Carson, Starr, Tolkinen, Fahnhorst, Sloat
Forwards - Bournazos, Beaudette, Porter, Kruse, Daley, McDonald, Vierling, Thorson, Erickson, Carew, Palmiscno, Lugin, Niestrom, Darnell, Sargis
Don't forget that the game starts at 6pm, and tickets will be available at the door. Also, the Lamont Cranston Band will be playing next door after the game. So when you're done cheering the Express to a victory, move the party over to the Beer Garden.
See you at the rink!!
--Big Kahuna
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Central Division Roster Moves
The Express haven't been the only Central Division team that has been making roster moves this week.
- The North Iowa Outlaws got a familiar face back from the USHL. Forward Joe Harcharik who has played the last 3 seasons with the Outlaws was cut by the Des Moines Bucs, and will join the Outlaws for the remainder of this season.
- The Outlaws also added another former USHL player. Defenseman Ryan Peltoma will help solidify the Outlaws blueline. He spent last season with the Tri-City Storm, and was just cut from the Omaha Lancers roster.
- To make room on the roster for their two new guys, the Outlaws traded former Express forward Scott Barrera to the Springfield Jr. Blues, and defenseman TJ Poganski to the Kenai River Brown Bears for draft picks.
- The Albert Lea Thunder traded a draft pick to the Marquette Rangers for forward Ryan Johnson, and released forward Colin Moberly.
--BK
- The North Iowa Outlaws got a familiar face back from the USHL. Forward Joe Harcharik who has played the last 3 seasons with the Outlaws was cut by the Des Moines Bucs, and will join the Outlaws for the remainder of this season.
- The Outlaws also added another former USHL player. Defenseman Ryan Peltoma will help solidify the Outlaws blueline. He spent last season with the Tri-City Storm, and was just cut from the Omaha Lancers roster.
- To make room on the roster for their two new guys, the Outlaws traded former Express forward Scott Barrera to the Springfield Jr. Blues, and defenseman TJ Poganski to the Kenai River Brown Bears for draft picks.
- The Albert Lea Thunder traded a draft pick to the Marquette Rangers for forward Ryan Johnson, and released forward Colin Moberly.
--BK
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Even More Roster News
The Express made some more roster moves today, with the addition of a couple of USHL guys. I believe one player was released, but I haven't confirmed that yet. I won't post the names until it's official.
My take: In the last 48 hours, the Express have added 4 highly talented players with USHL experience. The fairly young and inexperienced team that showed up for training camp on Labor Day, isn't so young and inexperienced anymore when you take the 4 additions this week and throw in Carew, Lugin, Palmiscno, and the others. Another aspect that I haven't mentioned yet, is that it seems that the Express are also adding some size to the roster with the latest additions.
It might take a few games for Coach Cullen to figure out where the new guys will fit into the current offensive lines/defensive pairings, but this team has the pieces needed to win the Central Division. Get your tickets today for the home opener Friday night, and you'll be able to see these guys in action.
See you at the rink.
--BK
My take: In the last 48 hours, the Express have added 4 highly talented players with USHL experience. The fairly young and inexperienced team that showed up for training camp on Labor Day, isn't so young and inexperienced anymore when you take the 4 additions this week and throw in Carew, Lugin, Palmiscno, and the others. Another aspect that I haven't mentioned yet, is that it seems that the Express are also adding some size to the roster with the latest additions.
It might take a few games for Coach Cullen to figure out where the new guys will fit into the current offensive lines/defensive pairings, but this team has the pieces needed to win the Central Division. Get your tickets today for the home opener Friday night, and you'll be able to see these guys in action.
See you at the rink.
--BK
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