By Matt Stefano
It’s a battle of two West Division teams tonight at the John Rhodes as your 2nd place Soo Thunderbirds will take on the 3rd place Blind River Beavers.
The Thunderbirds, who enter tonight’s game with 67 points, sit one point ahead of the Beavers in the NOJHL’s West Division.
Former Soo Thunderbirds captain Ryan Mulligan returns to the John Rhodes tonight for the first time since being traded to the Beavers back on December 28th.
In six meetings this season, the Beavers have won 4 times while the Thunderbirds have won twice.
MILESTONE FOR SMITTY
Thunderbirds top scorer Nick Smith will suit up in his 100th career game tonight.
In 99 career games with the Thunderbirds, the Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario product has 43 goals and 89 points.
ANOTHER RECORD FOR GORDO
Goaltender Brandon Gordon already holds a pair of team records, including most career wins and most career shutouts, and tonight he is on the verge of setting the new team record for most career games played by a goaltender.
Gordon, who will play in his 89th career game tonight, will pass Ryan Dube (2005-2009) for most career games played by a Soo Thunderbird goaltender.
OTHER NOTE
Fans are asked to be in their seats early before 7:30 p.m. as the Heart And Stroke Foundation will be at centre ice for a ceremonial puck drop.
(Photo credit to James Egan’s Sports Photography)
