Moose to battle Stars at MTS Centre
By: Manitoba Moose Staff | Published: December 4th 2016
The Manitoba Moose (10-8-1-1) hit the ice this afternoon (2:00 p.m. CT) looking for revenge as they host the Texas Stars (11-7-1-1) at MTS Centre.
Last Game
Saturday afternoon’s contest (Dec. 3) between Manitoba and Texas began with plenty of anticipation as the Moose hosted Star Wars Day. The galactic theme was a complete success, drawing a season high crowd of 10,203. Julian Melchiori’s lone third period marker for the Moose wasn’t enough as the Stars picked up a 6-1 victory.
Flash Back
The Moose continue this year’s season series with Texas today after a forgettable series last year. Texas took all four meetings against Manitoba including a 7-6 shootout affair (Feb. 10) featuring a two-point performance (1G, 1A) by Manitoba blueliner Brenden Kichton.
Still Going
Dan DeSalvo now owns the longest point streak by a Moose player this season with points in five straight games. He extended the streak, picking up an assist on Melchiori’s third period goal yesterday. Over the five games, DeSalvo has seven points (2G, 5A) to bring his total up to 12 on the season. That mark ties him with Quinton Howden for second in team scoring in just 10 games. With 1.20 points per game, DeSalvo is tied for fifth in the AHL in the category among players who have played at least ten games. DeSalvo is having success against Pacific Division teams, six (3G, 3A) of his 12 points have come against teams from the Pacific.
Texas’ Story
Heading into this weekend’s series, the Stars and Moose owned the exact same records. While Texas has seen its struggles on the penalty kill, they have had success. The Pacific Division squad leads the AHL in shorthanded goals with six on the season. Overall, Texas has gotten contribution from plenty of players as 11 have registered 10 or more points in 20 games. Leading the way is Brandon DeFazio with 17 points (8G, 9A) after tallying a goal on Saturday against Manitoba.
Autograph Alley
The first 3,000 fans through the doors will receive a Manitoba Moose pennant perfect for autographs at the Post-Game Autograph Alley featuring the full team.
What’s Next?
The Manitoba Moose have four days to re-charge until their next set of games. On Friday (Dec.9) Manitoba opens up another two-game set as they welcome the Cleveland Monsters to MTS Centre (7:00 p.m. CT). For tickets to all Manitoba Moose home games, visit moosehockey.com/tickets.
