Look Ahead to Game 4/ Friday News and Links

Portland restored order in their first round series on Wednesday night. They let Everett and the entire WHL know that yes this is the team that rolled up 57 wins in dominating fashion this year. After back to back games at home where Everett was either winning the game or coming close to it, the Winterhawks left no doubt after the 2nd period that game 3 and home ice advantage was theirs.

Ayrton Nikkel

How did they do this?  Besides playing well at both ends of the ice and moving around on the power play a little more, there wasn't that many differences in their play. Everett, however, played much worse in game 3. Particularly Austin Lotz, who had no chance on several of the Hawk's goals, but pulled the gaffe of the series so far on Portland's 6th goal. He really needs to make 3-4 remarkable saves to keep Everett confident that they can win the game. Also, defenseman Ayrton Nikkel had to have one of his worst games of the year. After starting out great leading the rush on Everett's first goal, he took two stupid penalties that led to pivotal Portland goals. Forward Kohl Bauml was also missing in action after playing great and creating chances in the first two games.

Everett will need to play much better against a Portland team that has thrived on the road all season, setting the WHL record for road wins in the process.

Mac Carruth has got to play much better in game 4. Two of the three Everett goals are probably ones he wants back. He seemed very frustrated with himself after the tips made it 5-3 in the 3rd.

Mac Carruth

News and Links:
-Everett top line forward Manraj Hayer blocked a shot and broke a finger Wednesday and will miss games 4 and 5. Mill Creek, WA resident and 7th round bantam pick, 15 year Daniel Woolfenden was at Everett's practice today.
-Yet another Spokane Tri City playoff game went to overtime last night with Blake Gal getting the winner in a 4-3 game. Spokane now leads 3-1 in the series. Luke Lee-Knight has taken Troy Trombley's place as Tri's starting goalie.
-Dylan Willick got the OT winner 17:47 into extra session for the 5-4 win, giving Kamloops a 3-1 series lead.
-Calgary ousted Swift Current 3-1 last night and 4 game to 1 overall, meaning there are no longer any teams left from the East Division in the playoffs.
-Kelowna could be without 6 regulars for Saturday's pivotal game 5 vs. Seattle (they are down 3-1 in the series).

Marcel Noebels Hawk in 2011-12

-In former Hawk news: here is a piece on Marcel Noebels' rookie season.