The Ridge Meadows Flames have started the new season with four straight lopsided victories, and tonight (Sept. 20) they will try to keep rolling when they face the Chilliwack Jets at Cam Neely Arena.
The Flames latest win in this young Pacific Junior Hockey League season was a 10-3 decision over the Delta Ice Hawks on Tuesday.
They were led by veteran Pierce Whyte who had a goal and three assists, while rookie Dalton Toma tallied two more goals. Veterans Aidan Wildeman and Cohen Muc each had a goal and two assists
Through four games, this team has scored 45 goals and allowed just six, and that 39-point differential is 22 better than the next closest team.
"It's tough to want any more from them," said GM Derek Bedard.
He said of the four teams they have beaten, three were playoff teams last season. But last year's Stonehouse Cup champions have their sights set on a repeat, and a provincial championship.
"Obviously having 16 players from last year's championship roster is a great starting point," said Bedard. "The players are really motivated. It's a competitive group."
The high-flying line of Zack Lagrange (12 points), Theo Kochan (11) and Nolan Bowsher (10) are second, third and fourth in league scoring so far, and the only guy ahead of them has played three more games.
As teams try to deploy personnel to shut them down, other lines do damage. The rookie line of Owen Nutland (9 points), Dalton Toma (8) and James Eagle (7) has had an impressive four games.
Blowing teams out doesn't make a franchise many friends, but Bedard said the team's own internal competition for playing time means his skaters aren't just heading on the ice to go for a twirl.
"We have high aspirations and goals as a club, but we're not tying to embarrass anybody," said the GM. "It's early, and other teams are going to get better."
Tonight's opposition should be a challenge, and the Jets won their first two games.
"They're hard to play against, they're heavy, and Chris (Price) is an exceptional coach over there," said Bedard.
The Flames will host Chilliwack in their regular Friday night game on Sept. 20 at 7:30 p.m.
