Moose host Checkers to cap 2016

Following a 10-day layoff, the Manitoba Moose (12-12-2-2) return from the holiday break welcoming the Charlotte Checkers (11-17-2-0) to the MTS Centre tonight at 7:00 p.m. CT.

Last Game

Manitoba wrapped up a five-game road trip on Dec. 19 in Iowa, playing three games in as many days. The Moose and Wild played to a 1-1 tie for the majority of the contest until Kyle Connor rifled a quick wrister over the shoulder of Steve Michalek with 1:13 remaining in the game, giving the Moose a 2-1 win.

Flash Back

Tonight’s tilt marks the third meeting between the Moose and Checkers. The Manitoba visited Bojangles’ Coliseum for two-game series on Dec. 13 and 14. The Carolina Hurricanes’ affiliate took the first tilt 4-2 while the Moose managed to nab a point the following night, falling 3-2 in overtime. Chase De Leo and JC Lipon found the score sheet in both games, finishing with two points (1G, 1A) respectively.

Balanced Scoring

As the Moose hit their final game of December, the team has gotten scoring from all corners the roster this month.  Chase De Leo leads the squad with five points (3G, 2A) and he is followed by five others with four points (Roslovic, DeSalvo, Lipon, Connor, Lodge).  Roslovic posted his four points in just six games and Connor registered his in seven contests while the others played in nine games through the month.

Charlotte’s Story

Since picking up two wins against Manitoba at home, the Charlotte Checkers are in the midst of a four-game slide and now sit in last place in the AHL. In addition to their recent struggles, the Checkers are 0-10-2-0 over their last 12 road games. The Checkers’ powerplay is a work in progress too, sitting at the bottom of the league at 11.1 per cent. Andrew Poturalski has 19 points (6G, 13A) in 30 games – good for the team lead. Veteran goaltender, Michael Leighton, is amongst the league leaders in between the pipes with a 1.90 GAA and a .930 save percentage.

Shutout Hunger

Fans attending tonight’s game are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for donation to Winnipeg Harvest.  Volunteers from Winnipeg Harvest and families of Manitoba Moose players will collect food items at each entrance of the MTS Centre until midway through the first period. Additionally, Red River Co-op will have two locations on the concourse where fans can make cash donations.  Money raised at the booths will support the purchase of hampers for Winnipeg Harvest.  The booths will remain open until the beginning of the third period. Fans donating non-perishable food items or cash will be entered to win an autographed Manitoba Moose jersey and tickets to the Manitoba Moose Firefighter Appreciation game on Sunday, Jan. 15.

What’s Next?

The two teams will hit pause on this series tomorrow before they hit the ice for the rematch on Sunday for a New Years Day matchup at 2:00 p.m. CT. Remember fans, you’ll want to be in the building for Sunday’s game as the first 3,000 fans will receive an Eric Comrie bobblehead. For tickets to all Manitoba Moose home games, visit moosehockey.com/tickets.