Monday, 20 March 2017

Western Conference Round 1: Erie Otters (1) vs Sarnia Sting (8)


Other Previews



OTL and SOL combined in record breakdown section

OTL and SOL combined in record breakdown section

This is the 3rd time these 2 teams have met in the playoffs with the Erie Otters prevailing each time 4-1 in the opening round. The Otteres come into this series as the first team in CHL history with 4 straight 50 win seasons. Anything less than an OHL championship will be seen as a major disappointment.

The Sting came into this season with lots of potential but lost 3 players to the NHL. They have a young and emerging roster and while over matched against Erie they can use this as a stepping stone to greater success next season.


Players to Watch

Erie Otters

Kyle Maksimovich: We all know about the Debrincat's, the Stromes, the Cirelli's etc. For the Otters to finally break through and take the OHL title in what is looking like the final year of their window they will need scoring from all levels of their offence. Maksimivich is in the middle of what may be the quietest consecutive point per game season in the league. He will need to improve upon his .62 ppg from last seasons playoffs and the growth in his game this year should allow him to do so.

Owen Headrick: A 14th round pick in 2013 Headrick saw his game blossom in the NOJHL as a 16 and 17 year old before jumping to the NCAA with LSSU as an 18 year old true freshman. In 1.5 seasons in the Michigan Soo he thrived playing against men who were 4 to 6 years older than him. He has been a solid addition to the Otters blueline with 8 points in 23 games but dont be surprised if that productions sees a jump come playoff time.

Sarnia Sting

Drake Rymsha: The scoring forward cost the Sting 4 draft picks including 2 2nds at the deadline that left some scratching their heads. All Drake has done since the trade is put up points. His (insert total) is the most by any player acquired at the deadline.

Jeff King: The overage defender his coming off of a career year where he has blown all his personal bests out of the water. He has been particularly dynamic since the middle of February where he had a stretch of points in 12 out of 13 games which included 7 goals and 15 assists.

Keys to the Series

Erie: Don't pick up any injuries, stay disciplined and use it as a stepping stone to what could be a challenging 2nd round match up

Sarnia: Use this as a building block for next season. The Sting have a intriguing roster shaping up for next season and if they can get Hughes and Weiss to commit they may be the best bets in the West Division to challenge the Greyhounds. Use this as a learning experience and allow it to help supplement further development.


Season Series

Head to Head Results

Oct 2nd
Sarnia 2 @ Erie 7
Nov 19th
Erie 4 @ Sarnia 3
Jan 20th
Erie 8 @ Sarnia 2
Mar 4th

Sarnia 5 @ Erie 3



Other Series Predictions

From @DominicTiano is his Playoff preview for all 8 series

From @NaitSayger comes his OHL playoff preview for SportsNet
Prediction

Erie in 4. Sarnia could steal one like they did in Erie on March 4th but so much would have to go right for them to do that even just once that I personally wouldn't bet on them winning a game.

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