Article written by Aidan Charde
The Rochester Jr. Americans are ready for another rowdy season, with a new-look squad that is vastly different than last year’s historic team.
The reigning East Division Champions return just nine players from a roster that set records left and right. They are led by high-scoring forward Owen King as well as a trio of skaters that saw plenty of playing time last season: defenseman Dexter Kichline along with forwards Keanan Dewberry and Ryan Shaw.
King was a late addition to the roster, as the team announced he was returning to Rochester two days before opening night. However, it is a welcome homecoming for the local star: King was third on the team in points and goals last season. He also notched 16 multi-point games and enters the season with a good chance to take control of the team’s career scoring records.
Offensively, Dewberry played as a depth piece with balanced scoring and blazing speed, notching 22 points as a full-season contributor. Though he played the same role, it was a big step up from his first season with the squad where he earned 13 points. With several key faces from last year moving on, Dewberry looks primed to make another leap forward to help lead the team.
Shaw is undoubtedly the best trade acquisition in the Jr. Amerks’ history so far. Despite not playing a game for Rochester until Dec. 20, his 25 points after the trade gave him the 10th highest total on the team. He also played postseason hero, leading the team with seven goals in the playoffs and coming in second for points with 12.
Another trade piece is returning for a second season in the red, white and blue, as forward Jackson Schouten, one of the most feared physical forwards in the league, is running it back after joining the team in late January.
The Jr. Amerks will also get to see a full season from goalie Jensen Carlstrom, who burst onto the scene last year as an emergency backup for Danick Leroux in the postseason. Carlstrom, despite never having played junior hockey before, took the NAHL by storm in his nine games, going 6–1–2 and saving 91% of shots against the toughest of competition.
Finally, forwards Ethan Coots and Ryan Bernard and defenseman Gavin Carr return after playing limited roles with the team last season. Bernard played four games, Carr played in 10 with five points and Coots took the ice in 18 games, scoring one goal.
Of the new faces, four come in with extensive NAHL experience. Forwards George Poirier (Colorado Grit), Colin Watson (Corpus Christi Ice Rays) and Corson Maguire (Amarillo Wranglers) each join the team with one year of eligibility left. They are joined by defenseman JP Saddy who played with the New Jersey Titans last year.
While it may seem like the squad is inexperienced compared to years past, the team is also welcoming in many players with junior hockey experience in other leagues. Of the 17 players on the opening day roster new to the NAHL, 10 have played in leagues similar to the NAHL.
With opening night drawing close, anticipation is building for what is sure to be an exciting season of hockey.
Preview: Sept. 12 and 13 vs. Maryland Black Bears
WHERE: Rochester Ice Center | Fairport, NY
WHEN: Sept. 12 at 7:30 p.m. | Sept. 13 at 7:00p.m
WATCH: NAHL.tv
FOLLOW: @JrAmerksNAHL
History
In just two seasons, the rivalry between the Maryland Black Bears and Rochester Jr. Americans has proven to be bitter, even if it does not get as physical or emotional as other competitions. Last year, Rochester powered to a 3–2–1 record against Maryland, 2 1–1 at home. Maryland holds an edge all-time with a 9–3–2 record, but the goal differential sits at just -1 in favor of the Black Bears.
Carlstrom makes his regular season debut
The Jr. Amerks postseason hero makes his first regular season appearance this weekend after joining the roster in the offseason. Carlstrom set Jr. Amerks records for saves (209), minutes (555:51) and wins (6) in a single postseason last year. In nine games, he posted a .911 save percentage and a goals allowed average 2.159 — both great marks if he can extend that to a full season.
Kichline is Captain America
Rochester extended its streak of defensive captains this season when it named returner Dexter Kichline its third captain in team history. Kichline joins the ranks of Tyler Procious and Alex Zakrzewski, two standout defenders who anchored the blue line during their time with the team. Additionally, Kichline is one of two players returning for their third season with the team, along with forward Keanan Dewberry.
Rock the rink
With a slew of promotions for opening weekend, the Jr. Amerks are looking to pack the Rochester Ice Center for an exhilarating start to the season. Come early to ensure you get rally towels, schedule magnets and of course, make sure you get good seats!
