The Wings open up their 27th season on Friday January 11 when the Buffalo Bandits come to town. Game time is at 7 PM at the Wells Fargo Center.
The Wings look to get back on track after losing there last 5 regular season games of 2012, along with a defeat in the first round of the playoffs has left a very bitter taste in the mouths of players. The Wings are looking to rinse that taste out, and what better way then a win over the Bandits.
Last season the Wings took the season series from Buffalo 2-1. Defeating the Bandits on January 27th in Buffalo by a score of 13-10, Then on Feb 12 at the Wells Fargo Center, pulling out a nail biter 14-13. The final meeting was back in Buffalo, and in a game the Bandits needed they dominated the Wings 17-7
The Wings come into 2013 with 17 Americans on their roster. They also come into the opener with many changes to their roster.
Notable additions for 2013 Wings are Kevin Buchanan acquired from Buffalo for David Brock and Mike Hominuck. Buchanan had 10G, 19A in 2012. Kevin Ross acquired from the Minnesota Swarm who compiled 28G, 31A in 2012, and Paul Rabil, the main piece in the blockbuster trade sending Dan & Paul Dawson to Rochetser. Rabil had 3G, 5A with Washington in 2012 before being traded to Edmonton.
Other key newcomers include Kyle Hartzell and Kevin Croswell (both picked up from the Washington Stealth), Joel White (Rochester), and 2012 draft picks Michael Manley (4th round) and C.J. Costabile (5th round).
The Wings played two preseason games at the Toronto Rock Athletic Centre in Oakville, ON. On December 21 they lost to Buffalo 20-12 (five quarters) then on the 22nd they fell 12-9 to the Rock in a much closer game.
Jordan Hall may miss the game for the Wings as he was assessed a one game suspension for actions in the pre-season game vs Toronto. NO word on if he will be appealing.
Injuries: Max Seibald (foot-PUP), Brendan Mundorf (ankle-PUP). Erick Hoffman (knee-IR, slated to be off on Jan 27)
History vs Buffalo– 22-23 Season Openers 12-14
Home—12-10
2012– 2-1
2012 Leaders (returning players)
Goals: Kevin Crowley and Drew Westervelt – 36 Captain— Brodie Merrill
Assists: Brendan Mundorf – 40
Points: Kevin Crowley – 71
Goals Against: Brandon Miller – 12.64
Next Game
The Wings are back in action on January 19 when they travel to Toronto to face the Rock at the Air Canada Centre. Next Home Game January 27 vs Calgary Roughnecks
Game can be viewed LIVE on YouTube www.youtube.com/
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