Tonight the Colorado Mammoth (4-0) will travel to face the Saskatchewan Rush (1-1). Colorado already holds a two game lead over the Rush, so this game is of major importance to the Rush.
As we know the Rush won the 2015 Champions Cup under the name of the Edmonton Rush. The defense was stellar all season by only allowing 9.83 GPG, and scoring at 13.38 GPG. But this season they have scored as many goals as they have allowed (21).
Rush are led by Mark Matthews (3G/8A), and Robert Church (5G/3A). Last years Rookie of the Year Ben McIntosh has registered only (1G/2A). Is it possible the are still suffering from the Championship hangover?
Yes it is early in the season, but being two games out of first this early, the Rush can not afford to fall behind by three this early in the season.
For Colorado, after finishing at 9-9 and a first round loss to Calgary in last years playoffs, the Mammoth have come out on fire. The offense is averaging 15.25 GPG. Adam Jones (15G/15A),Callum Crawford (9G/20A), and John Grant Jr., (11G/14A) lead this high powered offense. Jeremy Noble who was acquired mid season from Rochester has (6G/14A). Right now this is needed as the defense is a little shaky in letting up 12 goals a game, (Toronto 0-4, let up same number).
Alex Buque played in the opener, winning 16-15 in overtime. Since then it’s been Dillon Ward’s show, going 3-0 with a 10.50 GAA.
Tonight will be a big test for the Colorado offense (15.25 goals a game) as the Rush’s defense/goaltending has only allowed 9.83 GA through their first two games. For the offense of the Rush, they average 13.38 goals a game which is close to what Colorado’s defense allows (12 GAA).
This is sure to be a classic game.
