Comment 1
X-Factor
Today's X-factor was none other than Chico Smeb. He had a big night in his SMJHL debut. The rookie potted 2 assists in just 12 minutes of ice time playing on the 3rd pairing. Both of these points came 5 on 5, as he doesn't play the powerplay, those were some efficient minutes for Chico today. In addition to his 2 assists, he also had a shot blocked ( in a league where shot blocks are fairly hard to get), and had a +2 rating. All in all, it was a nice debut for the rookie, and he's put himself in an early lead for rookie of the year, albeit 1 game in.

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Comment 2
Special Teams
I think it was clear the refs were out to get the Raptors tonight. It was as if the Raptors were playing against Halifax AND the refs. Just one powerplay for the Raptors compared to a whopping six for Halifax. I think this was one of the main reasons this game went to overtime. Colorado is known for being one of the best 5 on 5 teams in the league, so having to play just under 12 minutes shorthanded made this game closer than what it should have been. I hope this isn't a sign to come for what the reffing will look like this season, they need to be better.

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Comment 3
Shootout/Overttime - Yuri Ushakov
Colorado was dominant in the shootout/overtime period, which is a big relief for them after blowing a 2-0 lead, and a 4-3 lead. Their goalie Yuri Ushakov didn't have the greatest game in regulation, but he absolutely shut Halifax down in overtime and the shootout. Halifax had three high danger scoring chances in overtime, one ringing off the post, and two being robbed by Ushakov. He had to be feeling confident heading into the shootout, and indeed he was. This one was over quickly, as Ushakov stopped both Outlaw and Scoreov from Halifax, meanwhile both shooters for Colorado scored on McKorsy.

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