Powell River Kings came away with one win and one loss in two games at the BC Hockey League (BCHL) Showcase in Chilliwack, held from September 20 to 24. The event brings together all league teams to showcase their young players to professional and college scouts. The games are also worth points in the standings.
Kings beat Vernon Vipers 2-1 on September 22 and lost 4-2 to Trail Smoke Eaters the following day.
“Vernon bottled us up and Trail had a great game plan against us,” said Kings head coach Kent Lewis.
With 31 goals in six games, Kings are the hottest scoring team in the league. Divisions rivals Nanaimo Clippers are next, six goals behind.
The weekend prior to the Showcase, Kings scored 18 goals in two games.
“Teams are really gearing up for us,” said Lewis. “They want to shut us down.”
Against Vernon and Trail, Kings were abysmal on the power play, according to Lewis. The team failed to score on eight man-advantage chances in its win over Vernon and scored only two goals in eight power-play opportunities in the loss to Trail.
“That falls on the coach; we didn't execute,” said Lewis. “Special teams are always the coach’s fault. When there's a loss, it's always the coach’s fault. That's the nature of the business.”
Kings veteran Carter Turnbull was named BCHL player of the week for the week ending September 17. Turnbull and teammate Jonny Evans are tied for second in league scoring with 11 points each. Turnbull has scored five of his team’s 31 goals on the season.
Kings next action is at home against Alberni Valley on Saturday, September 30. Game time is 5 pm.
In October, six of Powell River’s nine games will take place at Hap Parker Arena.
