Article written by Aidan Charde
Recap: Dec. 8 and 9 vs. Maine Nordiques
Despite a strong effort, the Jr. Americans were unable to come out of last weekend’s series with a victory, although the team did snag a crucial point. In game one, the Jr. Amerks fought back from a 3–1 deficit halfway through the third period, tying it up on a goal by forward Matteo Disipio. Goalie Florian Wade played phenomenally in the third period, stopping 12 of the 13 shots he faced and helping his team to reach overtime, guaranteeing them a point. The Jr. Americans had majority of the chances in the overtime frame, but could not capitalize and eventually fell in a shootout.
In game two, the Nordiques got out to a quick start, scoring early in the first. After three total goals in the second period, the Nordiques held a 3–1 lead entering the final period. Unfortunately, the Jr. Amerks were unable to pull off the comeback this time, eventually falling 5–2 despite tallying 42 shots on goal to the Nordiques’ 19.
Preview: Dec. 15 and 16 vs. Danbury Hat Tricks
WHEN: Dec. 15 at 8:15 p.m. | Dec. 16 at 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Rochester Ice Center | Fairport, NY
WATCH: NAHL.tv
FOLLOW: @JrAmerksNAHL
History:
This will be the first time these two teams match up. The Jr. Americans sit in fifth place in the East Division at 14–12–3, while the Hat Tricks are in last place in the division with a record of 7–17–4.
Strong offensive connection
Forwards Matteo Disipio and Massimo Gentile have been lighting up the score sheets this season, sitting at seventh and eighth for points scored in the league respectively and their 67 combined points are the third most by a teammate combination in the league. On top of that, their chemistry as of late has been something special: You would have to go back to Nov. 10 to find the last game where one of them scored without being assisted by the other.
Penalty problems
TheJr. Amerks continue to struggle on the penalty kill this season, tallying a league-worst 68%. No one else in the division is below 80%. Fortunately, their power play performances have been stellar, especially as of late. They are scoring on 21% of power plays, which is tied for sixth-best in the league, and their 26 power play goals scored is tied for third best.
Carangi gets the call
Following an impressive performance two weeks ago against the New Hampshire Mountain Kings, goalie Aries Carangi was added to the Jr. Amerks roster this week. Carangi filled in last-minute for the team when goalie Cole O’Donnell went down with an injury early in the first game of the series and the team was already without Florian Wade because of an illness. And while he did let in a goal less than one minute into his debut, he shut out the Mountain Kings over the final 59 minutes and earned his first NAHL win.
Beware the trap game
The Hat Tricks are last place in the division with 18 points and are ahead of just two other teams in the league, both of whom have played fewer games. But they are coming into this weekend winners of three of their last seven — their best stretch of the season — including a 2–1 overtime win over the Maryland Black Bears.
Promotions this weekend
With another action-packed weekend at home, the Jr. Amerks are offering more giveaways, theme nights, and deals! Friday is our Boom Stick Giveaway and Saturday is our Holiday Celebration. Both games are $2 Beer Night’s. This is the last series before the holiday break, so don’t miss you opportunity to enjoy with the whole family! Get your tickets here.
Stay connected during the season by following the Jr. Amerks @JrAmerksNAHL on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and online at rochesterjramerks.com.
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The Rochester Jr. Americans are members of the NAHL which is the oldest and largest junior hockey league of its kind in the United States and one of only two USA Hockey-certified leagues that operate under the non pay-to-play model. The NAHL is also one of the best at advancing players to NCAA and professional hockey. All league games are viewable via NAHLTV. For more information, visit rochesterjramerks.com.