The New Westminster Salmonbellies finished second last in the WLA last season with 7-10-1 record. One of the biggest bright spots during New Westminster’s 2013 season was the play of rookie Logan Schuss. Schuss had 29 goals and 27 assists for 56 points. Schuss also was awarded the WLA rookie of the year award. In his first year in the NLL Schuss has been putting on a show as he posted 36 goals and 37 assists with the Minnesota Swarm this past season. As the Salmonbellies head in the 2014 WLA season they will be looking at Schuss to lead the team offense.
The Salmonbellies offense struggled last year with only five players having more than 20 points. The Salmonbellies will be hoping that Schuss can succeed giving more playing time this season. The Salmonbellies will also be hoping that Jordan McBride can improve upon his 63 points from last season as he led the Salmonbellies in scoring in 2013. If the Salmonbellies can get some more secondary scoring they will be in a good position to challenge for a playoff spot.
The Salmonbellies made a splash this off season as they signed goalie Alexis Buque who played for the Minto Cup-winning Whitby Warriors. Buque is no stranger to winning as he won the Minto Cup twice with Whitby. Buque posted a 5.96 goal against average last year along with a .868 save percentage. The Salmonbellies will hope that Buque can add some stability in between the pipes as he will start as the back up to Neil Tyacke.
The Salmonbellies have made improvements this offseason and should be able to challenge for a playoff spot. The Salmonbellies were one of the toughest teams to play against in 2013 and they will look to be just as scrappy in 2014 as they hope to return to the playoffs. The Salmonbellies will open their 125th season against the Langley Thunder on May 22 at Queens Park Arena.
