The Rangers started this one off with a goal very late into the 1st period; Tanner Lam made a quick pass to Luca Romano for a short one-timer to make it 1-0 going into the 2nd. The game was end-to-end action, but neither team could capitalize on any opportunities, and it would remain 1-0 going into the 3rd. Kitchener opened the 3rd perfectly as top 2027 NHL prospect Luca Santala fired a shot from the circle; it deflected more than once but found its way past Vermirovsky for a 2-0 lead. Brady Smith would bring the hounds within one with a beautiful one-handed tuck five-hole, and with 2 minutes remaining, Rangers goaltender Jason Schaubel would make his first mistake all game: a bad puck bounce off the boards, and he ended up dropping his stick before swatting it away, where Ryan Kaczynski would tap it in the empty net. Jakub Winklehofer would win it for the Greyhounds a minute into overtime.
The Standouts
Luca Santala – Luca had a slower start to the game, but looked great in the 2nd and 3rd. An ability of his that really stood out to me was his puck protection; he was very strong on his skates and used his body to distance the puck from defenders while keeping his head up, looking to make plays. He showed very good vision and made many slick passes, especially on the power play; he thinks ahead of the play and is able to put himself in scoring opportunities before they develop.
Trevor Daley Jr – Daley was on the best line for the hounds again; he, along with his line, were punishing on the forecheck, not only hitting but his relentless work ethic and pace; he is extremely effective along the boards as well, often won’t just crash and bang in the battles but will sneak in, lift a stick and take it with perfect timing.
Jason Schaubel – Schaubel was incredible, stopping 33/36 with one of them being an unlucky bounce off the boards; the Greyhounds had plenty of high-danger chances, and he kept the Rangers in it all night. He has extremely fast lateral movement, is very quick down low, and showed great positioning throughout the game, especially while on the penalty kill.