Firebirds News: December 2022

 

     The Flint Firebirds are currently in 4th place in the OHL (Ontario Hockey League) standings with 31 points, and an overall record of 14-8-2-1 (2 overtime losses, and 1 shootout loss).  The Flint Firebirds roster currently features two players from the state of Michigan including Right Winger #29 Gavin Hayes (Westland), and Center #91 Owen Pitters (Chesterfield).

     The Flint Firebirds roster currently features six players that have already been selected by NHL (National Hockey League) teams including Goaltender #70 Will Cranley (St. Louis Blues), Defenseman #82 Artem Guryev (San Jose Sharks), Right Winger #29 Gavin Hayes (Chicago Blackhawks), Center #13 Braeden Kressler (Toronto Maple Leafs), Defenseman #79 Dmitry Kuzmin (Winnipeg Jets), and Center #93 Amadeus Lombardi (Detroit Red Wings).

     Fint Firebirds Center #93 Amadeus Lombardi currently leads the team in points, goals, and in assists.  Lombardi has accumulated 13 goals, 19 assists, and 32 points in 25 games played this season.  Right Winger #29 Gavin Hayes has currently produced 12 goals, 12 assists, and 24 points in 25 games played this season.  The Flint Firebirds traded Left Winger #78 Brennan Othmann to the Peterborough Petes on Saturday, November 12th, 2022.

     Leave a comment or email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com  Click on the links below for more information about the Flint Firebirds, or the Ontario Hockey League.  Click on past months to see all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material.  Check out Game Notes.  

                                                                                   Game Notes  

    

-  Ted Dent is the Head Coach, and General Manager of the Flint Firebirds.  

-  The Flint Firebirds received Defenseman #82 Artem Guryev in the trade that sent Right Winger #78 Brennan Othmann to the Peterborough Petes.  The Firebirds also received three future OHL draft picks. 

-  The Flint Firebirds defeated the Peterborough Petes 7-4 last night in Peterborough.  It was the Flint Firebirds first victory ever in Peterborough.

-  The Flint Firebirds play their home games at the Dort Financial Center located at 3501 Lapeer Road, in Flint, Michigan.

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For more information about the Flint Firebirds click on  https://flintfirebirds.com 

For OHL stats, and standings click on  https://ontariohockeyleague.com  

Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com 

Click on the arrow next to previous months to see the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material. 

Spirit News: November 2022

 

     The Saginaw Spirit are currently in 1st place in the OHL (Ontario Hockey League) Western Conference standings with 35 points, and an overall record of 17-6-1 (1 overtime loss).  The Saginaw Spirit roster currently features three players that have already been selected by NHL (National Hockey League) teams including Goaltender #30 Tristan Lennox (New York Islanders), Defenseman #10 Pavel Mintyukov (Anaheim Ducks), and Center #24 Matyas Sapovaliv (Vegas Golden Knights). 

     The Saginaw Spirit roster currently features six players from the state of Michigan including Right Winger #43 Davis Codd (Brighton), Defenseman #27 P.J. Forgione (Novi), Right Winger #12 Dean Loukus (Calumet), Goaltender #29 Andrew Oke (Shelby Township), Defenseman #22 Mitchell Smith (Saginaw). and Right Winger #21 Liam Storch (Rochester Hills).

     Saginaw Spirit Defenseman #10 Pavel Mintyukov is currently 2nd in the OHL in points with 35.  Mintyukov has accumulated 12 goals, and 23 assists in 24 games played this season.  Spirit Goaltender #30 Tristan Lennox is currently 2nd in the OHL in wins with 12.  

     Leave a comment or email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com  Click on the links below for more information about the Saginaw Spirit, or the Ontario Hockey League.  Click on past months to see all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material.  Check out Game Notes.  

                                                                                    Game Notes  

-  Left Winger #77 Michael Misa currently leads the Saginaw Spirit in goals with 14.

-  Chris Lazary is the Head Coach of the Saginaw Spirit.

-  Dave Drinkill is the General Manager of the Saginaw Spirit.

-  The Saginaw Spirit play their home games at the Dow Event Center located at 303 Johnson Street, in Saginaw.

For more information about the Saginaw Spirit click on  https://saginawspirit.com  

For OHL stats, and standings click on  https://ontariohockeyleague.com 

Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com 

Click on the arrow next to previous months to see the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material. 

Firebirds News: March 2022

 

     The Flint Firebirds are currently in 3rd place in the OHL (Ontario Hockey League) Western Conference standings with 77 points, and an overall record of 36-19-1-4 (1 overtime loss, and 2 shootout losses).  The Firebirds currently trail the London Knights by 1 point for 2nd place in the OHL Western Conference standings.  The Windsor Spitfires are currently in 1st place in the OHL Western Conference standings with 82 points, and an overall record of 38-16-3-3 (3 overtime losses, and 3 shootout losses).  

     The Hamilton Bulldogs currently have the best overall record in the Ontario Hockey League.  The Bulldogs are currently in 1st place in the OHL Eastern Conference standings with 91 points, and an overall record of 43-12-3-2 (3 overtime losses, and 2 shootout losses).  There are 20 teams competing in the 2021-2022 OHL season. 

     Flint Firebirds Left Winger #78 Brennan Othmann is currently 3rd in the OHL in goals this season with 41.  Othmann has also accumulated 45 assists, and 86 points in 58 games played this season.  Brennan Othmann was selected by the New York Rangers with the 16th overall pick in the 2021 NHL (National Hockey League) Entry Draft.  Othmann is from Pickering, Ontario.  

     Flint Firebirds Goaltender #37 Luke Cavallin currently leads the OHL in wins this season with 30.  Firebirds Right Winger #19 Riley Piercey is currently 2nd on the team in goals with 27, and 2nd on the team in points with 58.  Piercey has also accumulated 31 assists in 55 games played this season.  Riley Piercey is from Mississauga, Ontario.  Luke Cavallin is from Greely, Ontario.

     Windsor Spitfires Center #55 Wyatt Johnston currently leads the OHL in points this season with 112.  Johnston also currently leads the OHL in assists with 71.  Johnston is currently 2nd in the OHL in goals this season with 41.  London Knights Right Winger #14 Luke Evangelista currently leads the OHL in goals this season with 50.  Evangelista has also accumulated 50 assists, and 100 points in 55 games played this season.

     Leave a comment or email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com  Click on the links below for more information about the Flint Firebirds, or the Ontario Hockey League.  Click on past months to see all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material.  Check out Game Notes.  

                                                                                             Game Notes  

-  The Flint Firebirds have 8 more regular season games remaining on their schedule.

-  The Flint Firebirds are scheduled to host the London Knights tonight at 7:00 p.m.

-  The Flint Firebirds played their inaugural OHL season in 2015-2016. 

-  Ted Dent is the Head Coach of the Flint Firebirds.  Dent is also the Interim General Manager of the Firebirds. 

-  The Flint Firebirds play their home games at Dort Financial Center located at 3501 Lapeer Road, in Flint.  

-  The Mitten State Sports Report posted "Firebirds News: February 2022" on 2/28/2022.  

For more information about the Flint Firebirds click on  https://flintfirebirds.com   

For OHL stats, and standings click on  https://ontariohockeyleague.com 

Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com

Click on the arrow next to previous months to see the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material.      

      

Spirit News: February 2022

 

     The Saginaw Spirit are currently in 10th place in the OHL (Ontario Hockey League) Western Conference standings with 35 points, and an overall record of 17-30-1 (1 overtime loss).  The Spirit are currently 7 points out of the final spot of the 2021-2022 OHL Western Conference Playoffs with 20 regular games left on their schedule.  The Kitchener Rangers, and the Sarnia Sting currently sit ahead of the Spirit in the OHL Western Conference standings with 42 points each.  

     The Saginaw Spirit roster currently features two players that have already been selected by NHL (National Hockey League) teams including Left Winger #17 Josh Bloom (Buffalo Sabres), and Goaltender #30 Tristan Lennox (New York Islanders).  Josh Bloom currently leads the team in goals, and in points.  Bloom has accumulated 23 goals, 24 assists, and 47 points in 48 games played this season.

     The Saginaw Spirit roster currently features six players from the state of Michigan including Right Winger #43 Davis Codd (Brighton), Left Winger #19 Dalton Duhart (Grand Blanc), Defenseman #27 P.J. Forgione (Novi), Right Winger #12 Dean Loukus (Calumet), Defenseman #22 Mitchell Smith (Saginaw), and Goaltender #29 Andrew Oke (Shelby Township). 

     Windsor Spitfires Center #55 Wyatt Johnston currently leads the OHL in points this season with 85.  Johnston has already accumulated 29 goals, and 56 assists in 46 games played this season.  London Knights Right Winger #14 Luke Evangelista currently leads the OHL in goals this season with 41.  Evangelista has also accumulated 39 assists, and 80 points in 41 games played this season.  Kingston Frontenacs Right Winger #27 Lucas Edmonds currently leads the OHL in assists this season with 57.  Edmonds also has 26 goals, and 83 points in 47 games played this season.  London Knights Goaltender #30 Brett Brochu currently leads the OHL in wins this season with 27. 

     Leave a comment or email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com  Click on the links below for more information about the Saginaw Spirit, or the Ontario Hockey League.  Click on past months to see all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material.  Check out Game Notes.  

                                                                                          Game Notes 

-  The Saginaw Spirit played their inaugural OHL season in 2002-2003.  

-  The Saginaw Spirit play their home games at the Dow Event Center located at 303 Johnson Street, in Saginaw. 

-  Chris Lazary is the Head Coach of the Saginaw Spirit.  

-  Dave Drinkill is the General Manager of the Saginaw Spirit.  

-  Spirit Left Winger #17 Josh Bloom was selected by the Buffalo Sabres with the 31st pick (95th overall) in the 3rd Round of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft.  Josh Bloom is from Oakville, Ontario. 

For more information about the Saginaw Spirit click on  https://saginawspirit.com 

For OHL stats, and standings click on  https://ontariohockeyleague.com 

Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com 

Click on the arrow next to previous months to see the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material.  

     

Firebirds News: February 2022

     The Flint Firebirds are currently in 1st place in the OHL (Ontario Hockey League) Western Conference standings with 66 points, and an overall record of 31-15-1-3 (1 overtime loss, and 3 shootout losses).  The Firebirds are currently 4 points ahead of the London Knights, and the Soo Greyhounds for the top spot in the OHL Western Conference standings.  

     The Hamilton Bulldogs currently have the best overall record in the Ontario Hockey League.  The Bulldogs are currently in 1st place in the OHL Eastern Conference standings with 68 points, and an overall record of 32-11-2-2 (2 overtime losses, and 2 shootout losses).  There are 20 teams competing in the 2021-2022 OHL season.

     The Flint Firebirds roster currently features four players that have already been selected by NHL (National Hockey League) teams including Left Winger #92 Ethan Keppen (Vancouver Canucks), Center #13 Braeden Kressler (Toronto Maple Leafs), Defenseman #79 Dmitry Kuzmin (Winnipeg Jets), and Left Winger #78 Brennan Othmann (New York Rangers).  

     Flint Firebirds Left Winger #78 Brennan Othmann is currently 2nd in the OHL in goals this season with 35.  Othmann has also accumulated 38 assists, and 73 points in 48 games played this season.  Firebirds Goaltender #37 Luke Cavallin is currently 2nd in the OHL this season in wins with 25.  Flint Firebirds Right Winger #19 Riley Piercey is currently 2nd on the team in goals with 25.  Piercey has also accumulated 27 assists, and 52 points in 45 games played this season.   

     Leave a comment or email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com  Click on the links below for more information about the Flint Firebirds, or the Ontario Hockey League.  Click on past months to see all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material.  Check out Game Notes.

                                                                                           Game Notes

-  The Flint Firebirds played their inaugural OHL season in 2015-2016.  The Firebirds replaced the Plymouth Whalers when Peter Karmanos sold the Whalers in 2015.

-  Ted Dent is the Head Coach of the Flint Firebirds. 

-  Terry Christensen is the General Manager of the Flint Firebirds. 

-  The Flint Firebirds play their home games at the Dort Financial Center located at 3501 Lapeer Road, in Flint, Michigan. 

-  Firebirds Left Winger #78 Brennan Othmann was selected by the New York Rangers with the 16th overall pick in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft.  Othmann is from Pickering, Ontario.  

For more information about the Flint Firebirds click on  https://flintfirebirds.com  

For OHL stats, and standings click on  https://ontariohockeyleague.com 

Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com  

Click on the arrow next to previous months to see the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material.

Plymouth Whalers On YouTube

 

Check out the Plymouth Whalers YouTube channel.

     The Plymouth Whalers YouTube channel currently features 185 videos to help fans relive the memories of the Plymouth Whalers.  Some of the videos on the Plymouth Whalers YouTube channel include "Plymouth Whalers 2014-2015 Season Highlights", "The Last Five Minutes of the Final Plymouth Whalers Game.", "Tyler Seguin Hat Trick", and "Whalers Press Conference".  The Plymouth Whalers YouTube channel also has videos of game highlights, and full games from the 2013 OHL (Ontario Hockey League) Playoffs.  The Plymouth Whalers YouTube channel was created in 2008.

     Leave a comment, or email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com  Click on the link below for more information about the Ontario Hockey League.  Click on past months to see all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material.  Check out Game Notes.

                                                                                             Game Notes  

-  The Plymouth Whalers were sold in 2015.  The team moved to Flint to become the Flint Firebirds.  

-  The Flint Firebirds compete in the Ontario Hockey League.    

-  The Saginaw Spirit also compete in the Ontario Hockey League.   

-  The Ontario Hockey League has yet to begin the 2020-2021 season.  

For more information about the OHL click on  https://ontariohockeyleague.com  

Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com  

Click on the arrow next to previous months to see the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material.    

Plymouth 6 - Sarnia 3

On Thursday night, the Plymouth Whalers (in green) defeated the Sarnia Sting (in yellow) 6-3.

      On Thursday night, the Plymouth Whalers defeated the Sarnia Sting 6-3.  The Sarnia Sting outshot Plymouth 42-35, but Whalers goaltender #39 Alex Nedeljkovic made 39 saves for Plymouth.  Both teams are divisional rivals, and both squads are fighting for a postseason spot in the 2014-2015 OHL (Ontario Hockey League) Playoffs.
     The Plymouth Whalers are currently in 5th place in the West Division standings with 47 points, and an overall record of 21-37 (3 overtime losses, and 2 shootout losses).  The Plymouth Whalers play all of their home games at Compuware Arena, located at 14900 Beck Road, in Plymouth.  Click on the links below for more information about the Plymouth Whalers, or Compuware Arena.  Scroll down to see exclusive photos from Thursday night's 6-3 victory over Sarnia.
     The Sarnia Sting are currently in 2nd place in the West Division standings with 59 points, and an overall record of 26-34 (4 overtime losses, and 3 shootout losses).  Click on the links below for more information about the Sarnia Sting, or the Ontario Hockey League.
     There's only 5 opportunities left to see the Plymouth Whalers at home before they become extinct.  The Whalers host the Ottawa 67's tonight at 7:05 p.m.  Click on past months to see exclusive photos from several Plymouth Whalers games.  You can always leave a comment, and you can email the Mitten State Sports Report directly at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com  Scroll down and vote in the monthly Poll Question!

On Saturday night, the Plymouth Whalers (in green) hosted the Sarnia Sting (in yellow)!

There's only 5 home games left for the Plymouth Whalers.  The team has been sold, and they're going to Flint! 

#4 Sean Callaghan is a Defenseman for the Plymouth Whalers.  #25 Jordan Kyrou plays Center for the Sting.

#10 Anthony Salinitri had on his "O Face".  Salinitri plays Center for the Sarnia Sting!

On Thursday night, Whalers goaltender #39 Alex Nedeljkovic made 39 saves.

The Plymouth Whalers defeated the Sarnia Sting 6-3.

Click on the link below for more information about the Plymouth Whalers!

For more information about the Plymouth Whalers click on  plymouthwhalers.com 



For more information about the Sarnia Sting click on  www.sarniasting.com 



For information about the Ontario Hockey League click on  http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com



For more information about Compuware Arena click on  http://www.compuwarearena.com 



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com



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Click on past months to check out all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material!
     

Plymouth vs. North Bay

On January 9th, the Plymouth Whalers (in blue) defeated the North Bay Battalion 6-3.  Scroll down to see exclusive photos.

     The Plymouth Whalers compete in the Western Conference of the (OHL) Ontario Hockey League, and play in the West Division.  The Whalers are currently in 5th place in the West Division standings with 31 points, and an overall record of 14-27 (2 overtime losses, and 1 shootout loss).  Click on the link below for more information about the Plymouth Whalers.
     On January 9th, the Plymouth Whalers defeated the North Bay Battalion 6-3 at Compuware Arena.  Scroll down to check out exclusive photos of the Whalers victory.  The Plymouth Whalers currently have seven players that have been selected by NHL (National Hockey League) teams.  Alex Nedeljkovic, and Josh Wesley have been drafted by the Carolina Hurricanes.  Alex Peters has been drafted by the Dallas Stars, Connor Chatham has been drafted by the New Jersey Devils, Victor Crus Rydberg (VCR) has been drafted by the New York Islanders, Matt Mistele has been drafted by the Los Angeles Kings, and Sonny Milano has been drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets.  Click on the links below for more information about the Ontario Hockey League, or Compuware Arena.
     The North Bay Battalion compete in the Central Division of the Eastern Conference.  The Battalion are currently in 2nd place in the Central Division standings with 51 points, and an overall record of 21-19 (6 overtime losses, and 3 shootout losses).  The Battalion currently have three players that have been selected by NHL teams.  Ryan Kujawinski has been drafted by the New Jersey Devils, Nick Paul has been drafted by the Ottawa Senators, and Nick Moutrey has been drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets.  Click on the link below for more information about the North Bay Battalion.  You can always leave a comment, and you can email the Mitten State Sports Report directly at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com  Click on past months to check out all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material.

The Plymouth Whalers (in blue) hosted the North Bay Battalion.  The game was played on January 9th, at Compuware Arena.  

 

The game was physical.  There were plenty of fights.

The North Bay Battalion celebrated 3 goals against the Plymouth Whalers.  

#12 Brett McKenzie had a conversation with an official.  

#23 Nick Moutrey has already been drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets.

#17 Ryan Kujawinski has already been drafted by the New Jersey Devils.

The Plymouth Whalers celebrated a 6-3 victory over the North Bay Battalion.  

For more information about the Plymouth Whalers click on  plymouthwhalers.com 



For more information about the North Bay Battalion click on  www.battalionhockey.com



For OHL stats, and standings click on  http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com 



For more information about Compuware Arena click on  http://www.compuwarearena.com 





     

25 Years of Whalers

The Plymouth Whalers play all of their home games at Compuware Arena in Plymouth.. 

     The Plymouth Whalers have existed for 25 years as a hockey organization affiliated with the OHL (Ontario Hockey League).  They've been known as Ambassadors, Junior Red Wings, and Detroit Whalers, and the team has called Compuware Arena their home since the 1996-1997 season. Compuware Arena is located at 14900 Beck Road, in Plymouth.  Click on the link below for more information about Compuware Arena.
     The Plymouth Whalers are currently in 3rd place in the Ontario Hockey League's West Division with 17 points, and an overall record of 8-12 (1 overtime loss).  The Whalers host the Niagara Ice Dogs this Saturday night (Nov. 22nd).  Puck drops at 7:05 p.m.  Click on the links below for more information about the Plymouth Whalers, or the Ontario Hockey League.  Click on past months to see exclusive photos from several Plymouth Whalers games.









                                              25 Year History of the Plymouth Whalers  






1990 - 1992          Detroit Compuware Ambassadors



1992 - 1995          Detroit Junior Red Wings



1995 - 1997          Detroit Whalers  



1997 - current      Plymouth Whalers    

Click on the links below for more information about the Plymouth Whalers, the OHL, or Compuware Arena.

                                            Upcoming Plymouth Whalers Home Games!






Saturday, November 22nd     vs.  Niagara Ice Dogs     7:05 p.m.



Wednesday, November 26th  vs.  Windsor Spitfires     7:05 p.m.



Saturday, November 29th     vs.     Sarnia Sting          7:05 p.m.  

Click on past months to see exclusive photos from several Plymouth Whalers games!

For more information about the Plymouth Whalers click on  plymouthwhalers.com



For OHL stats, and standings click on  http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com



For more information about Compuware Arena click on  http://www.compuwarearena.com  



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com



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Click on past months to check out all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material.

Plymouth 5 - Mississauga 0

On Friday night, the Plymouth Whalers (in white) defeated the Mississauga Steelheads (in blue) 5-0. 

     The Plymouth Whalers earned a 5-0 shutout victory over the Mississauga Steelheads on Friday night, despite playing without several key players due to suspensions, and injuries.  #6 Mitch Jones is serving an eight game suspension, #32 Gianluca Curcuruto is serving a 12 game suspension, and #2 Alex Peters was out with a lower body injury.  The Whalers outshot the Steelheads 35-16, and goaltender #39 Alex Nedlejkovic earned his 3rd shutout of the season.
     Rookie center #41 Will Bitten (from Gloucester, Michigan) scored 2 goals for Plymouth on Friday night.  Left winger #82 Sonny Milano contributed 3 assists in his first game in a Plymouth Whaler uniform.  #22 Matt Mistele scored two goals, and #90 Mathew Campagna scored his 5th goal of the season.
     The Plymouth Whalers are currently in 2nd place in the West Division of the OHL (Ontario Hockey League) with 13 points, and an overall record of 6-7 (1 overtime loss).  Scroll down to check out exclusive photos from Friday night's 5-0 Whalers victory.
     Click on the links below for more information about the Plymouth Whalers, Compuware Arena, or the Ontario Hockey League,  You can always leave a comment, and you can email the Mitten State Sports Report directly at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com  Click on past months to see exclusive photos from several Plymouth Whalers games.

The Plymouth Whalers celebrated 5 goals against the Mississauga Steelheads.

 







             Ontario Hockey League West Division Standings (as of October 26th, 2014).




Place          Team          W     L     SOL-OTL        Points




1.  Sault Ste. Marie      10 3                                   20 points



2.  Plymouth                 6-6               0-1               13 points  



3.  Saginaw                  5-6                0-1               11 points



4.  Sarnia                     4-6                 1-1               10 points



5.  Windsor                  4-7                 0-1                9 points

#39 Alex Nedeljkovic earned his 3rd shutout of the season. 

Mississauga defenseman #4 Sean Day is from Rochester, Michigan.

The Whalers outshot the Steelheads 35-16.

#39 Alex Nedeljkovic has already been drafted by the Carolina Hurricanes of the NHL (National Hockey League).

The Whalers celebrated the 5-0 victory over Mississauga.

 

Click on the links below for more information about the Plymouth Whalers, Compuware Arena, or the OHL.

For more information about the Plymouth Whalers click on  plymouthwhalers.com



For information about events at Compuware Arena click on  http://www.compuwarearena.com



For OHL stats, and standings click on  http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com



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Whalers & Spirit Eliminated!

#21 Ryan Hartman (in white) is a Chicago Blackhawks draft pick!  Hartman has a promising future in the NHL.

     The Plymouth Whalers, and the Saginaw Spirit each ran into buzz saws in their respective series, and both teams have been eliminated from the 2014 OHL (Ontario Hockey League) Playoffs.  The Guelph Storm eliminated the Plymouth Whalers, and the Erie Otters finished off the Saginaw Spirit.  The best of seven series ended in 5 games for both the Whalers, and the Spirit, and both teams won game 3 of their respective series.
     The Plymouth Whalers were a young team this year, and weren't expected to be a top team in the OHL.  The Whalers finished the regular season with 63 points, and an overall record of 28-40 (7 shootout losses).  The Whalers earned the final spot in this years OHL Playoffs, but were outscored 7-2 in game 4, and 8-3 in game 5. The Whalers will miss the contributions next season of players like #4 Nick Malysa, #9 Zach Lorentz, and #25 Carter Sandlak.  It is expected that #21 Ryan Hartman will be on a NHL (National Hockey League) roster next season, and #32 Gianluca Curcuruto has a chance to make it as well.  Hartman is a Chicago Blackhawks draft pick, and Curcuruto is a Columbus Bluejackets draft pick.  The Whalers will be lead next season by #39 Alex Nedeljkovic, #22 Matt Mistele, #16 Victor Crus Rydberg (VCR), and #23 Connor Sills.  Click on the link below for more information about the Plymouth Whalers.
     The Saginaw Spirit were a scrappy bunch, and were lead by their goaltender #57 Jake Paterson.  Paterson is a Detroit Red Wings draft pick, and certainly has a future in the NHL.  The Spirit finished the season with 71 points, and an overall record of 33-35 (4 overtime losses, and 1 shootout loss).  Saginaw earned a #3 seed in this years OHL Playoffs, but lost 3 games to the Erie Otters by 1 goal.  The Spirit will miss the contributions of #15 Eric Locke next season, but Saginaw will have several players returning to the team.  Click on the link below for more information about the Saginaw Spirit.
     Do you think that either Ryan Hartman, or Jake Paterson will have a successful career in the NHL?  You can always leave a comment, and you can email the Mitten State Sports Report directly at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com   Click on the links below for more information about the Ontario Hockey League, or the National Hockey League.  Click on past months to check out exclusive photos from several OHL games.

The Plymouth Whalers will be back next season!  Click on the links below!

 







For more information about the Plymouth Whalers click on  plymouthwhalers.com



For more information about the Saginaw Spirit click on  http://www.saginawspirit.com



For OHL stats, and standings click on  http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com



For NHL stats, and standings click on  http://www.nhl.com



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com 



Click on past months to check out all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material!  

OHL Playoffs: Local Preview

The Ontario Hockey League Playoffs kick off tonight for the Plymouth Whalers, and the Saginaw Spirit!

     The OHL (Ontario Hockey League) Postseason begins tonight for several teams throughout the Ontario area, and for two teams from the state of Michigan.  The Plymouth Whalers have qualified for the OHL Playoffs for the 23 consecutive season, and the Saginaw Spirit also find themselves eligible for postseason play.  Both teams will be underdogs in their respective series, but both teams are well coached, and each squad has the talent to compete against anyone in the Ontario Hockey League.
     The Saginaw Spirit have earned themselves a #6 seed in the Western Conference Playoffs, and will matchup against the #3 Erie Otters in a seven game series. Saginaw finished the regular season with 71 points, and an overall record of 33-35 (4 overtime losses, 1 shootout loss).  The Erie Otters finished the regular season with 106 points, and an overall record of 52-16 (2 overtime losses).  The Erie Otters are lead by a trio of talented players that lead the Ontario Hockey League in goals, points, and assists.  #74 Dane Fox lead the OHL in goals this season with 64, and was 2nd overall in points with 107.  #28 Connor Brown lead the OHL in points with 128, and assists with 83.  #97 Connor McDavid was 4th overall in points with 99, and 2nd overall in assists with 71.  If the Spirit are going to advance past Erie, they'll have to contain the trio of scorers that the Otters feature.
     The Plymouth Whalers have earned themselves an #8 seed in the Western Conference Playoffs, and will matchup against the #1 Guelph Storm in a seven game series.  Plymouth finished the regular season with 63 points, and an overall record of 28-40 (7 shootout losses).  The Guelph Storm finished the regular season with 108 points, and an overall record of 52-16 (2 overtime losses, 2 shootout losses).  The Storm are anchored by #17 Tyler Bertuzzi (nephew of Todd Bertuzzi), and lead by #24 Scott Kosmachuk.  #24 Kosmachuk was third overall in the OHL this season in points with 101. The Whalers must contain #17 Bertuzzi, and #24 Kosmachuk if they hope to advance into the second round of the Western Conference Playoffs.
     Do you think either the Plymouth Whalers, or the Saginaw Spirit will advance in the Ontario Hockey League Playoffs?  Leave a comment or email the Mitten State Sports Report directly at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com  Click on the links below for more information about the Saginaw Spirit, the Plymouth Whalers, or the Ontario Hockey League.  Scroll down to see when the Whalers, and Spirit are playing!  Click on past months to check out exclusive photos from several Ontario Hockey League games.











                                              Plymouth Whalers vs. Guelph Storm
                                                     Games 5-7 only if necessary




Game 1 - Plymouth at Guelph - Tonight - 7:30 p.m.  

Game 2 - Plymouth at Guelph - Tomorrow - 7:00 p.m.

Game 3 - Guelph at Plymouth - Tuesday - 7:00 p.m.

Game 4 - Guelph at Plymouth - Wednesday - 7:00 p.m.

Game 5 - Plymouth at Guelph - Friday, March 28th - 7:30 p.m.

Game 6 - Guelph at Plymouth -  Sunday, March 30th - 4:00 p.m.

Game 7 - Plymouth at Guelph - Tuesday, April 1st - 7:00 p.m.










                                                   Saginaw Spirit vs. Erie Otters
                                                    Games 5-7 only if necessary





Game 1 - Saginaw at Erie - Tonight - 7:00 p.m.

Game 2 - Saginaw at Erie - Tomorrow - 7:00 p.m.

Game 3 - Erie at Saginaw - Monday - 7:11 p.m.

Game 4 - Erie at Saginaw - Wednesday - 7:11 p.m.

Game 5 - Erie at Saginaw - Thursday - 7:11 p.m.

Game 6 - Saginaw at Erie - Sunday, March 30th - 6:00 p.m.

Game 7 - Saginaw at Erie - Monday, March 31st - 7:00 p.m.

The Saginaw Spirit will have to contain the trio of talented players from Erie including #97 Connor McDavid. 

For more information about the Ontario Hockey League click on  http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com



For more information about the Plymouth Whalers click on  plymouthwhalers.com



For more information about the Saginaw Spirit click on  http://www.saginawspirit.com



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com



Scroll down and vote in the monthly Poll Question!  UofM or MSU?  A&W or IBC?



Click on past months to check out all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material!

Whalers Playoff Push!

The Plymouth Whalers are trying to make the OHL (Ontario Hockey League) Playoffs for the 23rd straight season!

     The OHL (Ontario Hockey League) regular season is winding down, and the Plymouth Whalers are attempting to qualify for the Playoffs for the 23rd consecutive season.  The OHL Playoffs have included the participation of the Whalers since the 1991-1992, and the 22 year streak is an OHL record.  The Whalers are currently holding on to the 8th seed to qualify for the Western Conference Playoffs, and are 7 points ahead of the Kitchener Rangers for the final spot.  Although the Whalers have not mathematically clinched a postseason birth yet, the team has put themselves in good position to do so, with only 8 regular season games remaining.
     If the OHL Playoffs started tonight, the Plymouth Whalers would play a 1st round, best of seven series against the Guelph Storm.  The Storm are currently 14 points ahead of the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds for the top overall seed in the Western Conference, and a first round matchup between the Whalers, and the Storm is almost inevitable.
     The Plymouth Whalers are currently in 8th place in the OHL Western Conference standings with 54 points, and an overall record of 24-36 (6 shootout losses).  Click on the links below for more information about the Plymouth Whalers, or the Ontario Hockey League.  You can always leave a comment, and you can email the Mitten State Sports Report directly at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com   Check out the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material to view exclusive photos from several Plymouth Whalers games.  Click on past months to check out all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material!      








For more information about the Plymouth Whalers click on  plymouthwhalers.com



For OHL stats, and standings click on  http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com



Scroll down and vote in the monthly Poll Question!  There's a new question every month!



Click on past months to check out all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material!

Alumni Report: Troy Smith

The Plymouth Whalers have several banners proudly hanging from the rafters!

     When the Plymouth Whalers head on the road tonight, they'll face a Whaler Alumni on the opposing bench. Troy Smith is the head coach of the Kitchener Rangers, and spent four seasons with the Plymouth Whalers organization.  During the 1995-1996 season, and the 1996-1997 season, the team was known as the Detroit Whalers.  Smith was a talented defenseman, but rarely scored goals for the Whalers.  Smith scored just 1 goal in each of his first two seasons with the Whalers, but did contribute a combined total of 21 assists through that time period.  Smith slightly increased his scoring totals during the 1997-1998 season scoring 3 goals, and adding 13 assists.  By the 1998-1999 season, Smith had proven to be a dual threat on the ice scoring 6 goals, and adding 13 assists, in 54 games with the Whalers.  After his time in the Ontario Hockey League, Smith went on to play professional hockey in the ECHL (formerly the East Coast Hockey League), along with other professional hockey leagues.  Troy Smith has been on the Kitchener Ranger coaching staff since 2006, and served as the assistant coach, until excepting the head coach responsibilities this season.
     The Plymouth Whalers have had several recent Playoff battles against the Kitchener Rangers.  The Mitten State Sports Report has archived photos from some of those games.  Click on past months to check out all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material. You can always leave a comment, or you can email the Mitten State Sports Report directly at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com  Click on the links below for more information about the Plymouth Whalers, the Kitchener Rangers, the Ontario Hockey League, or Compuware Arena!
 







For more information about the Plymouth Whalers click on  plymouthwhalers.com



For more information about the Kitchener Rangers click on  http://www.kitchenerrangers.com



For more information about the OHL click on  http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com



For more information about Compuware Arena click on  http://www.compuwarearena.com



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com



Scroll down and vote in the monthly Poll Question!  Your vote matters on the Mitten State Sports Report!



Click on past months to check out all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material!






   

Whalers vs. Generals

The Plymouth Whalers hosted the Oshawa Generals on Friday night!

The Oshawa Generals have the best record in the Eastern Conference!  They are in 1st place in the East Division!

Oshawa outshot Plymouth 51-30.  #39 Alex Nedeljkovic made 47 saves for the Whalers!

Oshawa goaltender #33 Daniel Altshuller has already been drafted by the Carolina Hurricanes! 

#33 Daniel Altshuller made 27 saves for the Generals on Friday night!

#71 Michael Dal Colle has scored 18 goals, and added 30 assists in 29 games with the Generals this season! 

#21 Scott Laughton spent some time in the NHL with the Philadelphia Flyers this season before returning to Oshawa!

#21 Scott Laughton has scored 21 goals, and added 21 assists in 25 games with Oshawa this season!

Oshawa defeated Plymouth 4-3 in the shootout!  Oshawa is currently 21-6-0-1.  Plymouth is currently 11-15-0-3. 

For more information about the Plymouth Whalers click on  plymouthwhalers.com



For OHL stats, and standings click on  http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com



For information about events at Compuware Arena click on  http://www.compuwarearena.com



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report directly at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com



Click on past months to view all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material!



                                 Have a happy, and safe Thanksgiving weekend! 

Whalers Lose 4-3 in Shootout!

On Friday night, the Oshawa Generals defeated the Plymouth Whalers 4-3 in the shootout!



 

     The Oshawa Generals came into Compuware Arena on Friday night, and defeated the Plymouth Whalers 4-3 in the shootout.  The Generals have the most points in the OHL's (Ontario Hockey League's) Eastern Conference, and began the weekend with 39 points, and an overall record of 19-6-0-1.  Generals' goaltender #33 Daniel Altshuller has already been drafted by the Carolina Hurricanes, and center #21 Scott Laughton began the season with the Philadelphia Flyers, but spent just five games in the NHL (National Hockey League) before returning to Oshawa.
     #25 Carter Sandlak scored to give the Whalers the early lead on Friday, and Plymouth lead 1-0 after the 1st period.  The Whalers played hard, but were outshot 51-30.  #21 Scott Laughton, and #20 Josh Sterk each scored a goal for the Generals in regulation, and both players scored in the shootout.  #39 Alex Nedeljkovic made 47 saves for the Whalers. 
     Plymouth lost on the road last night to Owen Sound 3-2 in the shootout, and are currently in 4th place in the West Division with 25 points, and an overall record of 11-15-0-3.  The Whalers will host the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds this Friday night at 7:05 p.m.  There are a limited number of $6.00 tickets available for Friday nights game.  Click on the link below for more information.

 Center #21 Scott Laughton scored for the Generals in the shootout!  

#20 Josh Sterk scored for Oshawa in the shootout.  The Generals defeated the Whalers 4-3.

For more information about the Plymouth Whalers click on  plymouthwhalers.com 



For OHL stats, and standings click on  http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com



For info about events at Compuware Arena click on  http://www.compuwarearena.com



Leave a comment!  Email the Mitten State Sports Report at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com



Click on past months to check out all of the Mitten State Sports Report's archived material!



Scroll down and vote in the Poll Question!  Have a happy, and safe Thanksgiving weekend! 





          

Whalers Win 2-1 in Shootout!

Last Friday, the Plymouth Whalers (in white) defeated the Mississauga Steelheads (in blue) 2-1 in the shootout!





 

 

     The Mississauga Steelheads came into Compuware Arena last Friday night, and left with a 2-1 loss in the shootout!  The game was scoreless until about five minutes into the second period when #23 Dylan Smoskowitz scored to give the Steelheads the lead.  The score was 1-0 midway through the third period, and I remember thinking to myself that I have never seen an OHL (Ontario Hockey League) game end 1-0 before.  The Whalers tied the score with just under three minutes left in the game when #20 Josh Wesley scored his first career OHL goal.  Both teams were cautious in the scoreless overtime period, and the Whalers won it in the shootout behind goals by #27 Yannick Rathgeb, #11 Connor Chatham, and #9 Zach Lorentz.  Rathgeb was credited with the game winning goal. 
     The Whalers lost to the Sarnia Sting 4-2 on Saturday night at Compuware Arena, and are on the road tonight to battle the Saginaw Spirit at the Dow Event Center (puck drops at 7:11 p.m.).  The Whalers are currently in fourth place in the West Division with 19 points, and an overall record of 9 wins, 13 losses, and 1 shootout loss.  Click on the links below for more information about the Ontario Hockey League, the Plymouth Whalers, or upcoming events at Compuware Arena.  Click on past months to check out archived material regarding the Plymouth Whalers.  This is the third season in a row that the Plymouth Whalers have appeared on the Mitten State Sports Report.  You can always leave a comment, and you can email the Mitten State Sports Report directly at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com  Be sure to check out exclusive photos from last Fridays game between the Mississauga Steelheads and the Plymouth Whalers only on the Mitten State Sports Report!

#23 Dylan Smoskowitz scored the Steelheads only goal!  The Whalers won 2-1 in the shootout!

For more information about the Plymouth Whalers click on  plymouthwhalers.com 



For info about events at Compuware Arena click on  http://www.compuwarearena.com



For information about the OHL click on  http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com 



Leave a comment or email the Mitten State Sports Report directly at mittenstatesportsreport@rocketmail.com



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Be sure to check out exclusive photos from last Fridays Plymouth Whalers game!