The IceCaps need a strong showing in second game of three straight at home. After a five day layoff, both team should be fresh and ready to go, but the home team will be coming out with some major desperation.
The IceCaps were manhandled for the first 40 minutes of game two before completely turning around their fortunes in the third period to force overtime. Unfortunately for the IceCaps an overturned goal and quick rebound by the bad guys left them empty-handed despite their efforts.
Keys to the Game
St. John's IceCaps
Show up on time. The IceCaps were shelled for the first 40 minutes last time out. That cannot become a trend. A key element to the IceCaps success in these playoffs has been scoring first. While this isn't 100% about the players, it is a pattern they'd surely like to return to.
More Hutch. Michael Hutchinson has been incredible through this playoff run and there is every reason to believe he will have to keep it up. The Texas Stars are a dangerous team and they are rightful favorites. Hutch will have to continue to play out of his mind and perhaps steal another couple games if the IceCaps are going to win this series.
O from the D. Josh Morrissey, Zach Redmond and Will O`Niell have been key figures in the IceCaps offensive attack. They will need to sustain this, but also improve their play in the defensive end. The IceCaps are simply allowing too many shots against. Fewer would be better.
Texas Stars
More of Morin. Travis Morin is the AHL’s top scorer. He led the league through the regular season and he is doing it again in the playoffs. The offense funnel’s through Morin and for good reason. The Stars will need more big plays from their big gun.
Keeps shooting. The Stars have poured 86 shots on goal over the last two games. That is a lot of offense. The Stars need to keep the pressure on the IceCaps and make them defend as much as possible.
Nilsorp. As strong as Michael Hutchinson has been, Cristopher Nilstorp hasn’t given an inch, allowing just 6 goals in two games. He will need to continue his strong showings if the Starts are to continue winning.
Player to Boo Mercilessly
Today that player isn't a player. Let's go with the refs. The fans at Mile One surely have not forgiven him.
Prediction
IceCaps 3
Stars 2
