The Vernon Vipers begin the 2010 RBC Cup on Saturday in a match-up with their hosts from Dauphin, MB, but they shape up as much more than just a club that has had its place in the event assured since before the puck dropped on the 2009/10 season. Despite the temptation of taking what was given to them, the Kings went on to capture the MJHL title before knocking off the SJHL's La Ronge Ice Wolves for the Anavet Cup.
While the game will be the first at the tournament for both teams, many pundits expect it to also serve as a preview on the National Championship game set for Sunday, May 9th.
The Kings were good wherever they travelled during the regular season and playoffs, but they were particularly tough to beat on home ice. The club dropped just a pair of games at Credit Union Place this year while winning 38 times.
Dauphin's strength comes in part from a handful of offensively gifted players that provide offence up and down the lineup. Three different Kings led all regular season, playoff and Anavet scoring respectively. The trio of Shane Luke (101 points), Ryan Dreger (99) and Bryce Lamb (89) finished first, second and fourth in the MJHL scoring race, while Steven Shamanski and Zeanan Ziemer combined for 40 points in 13 postseason contests.
Joel Kot, Mitch Czibere and Ryan Dreger then took on the lion's share of the scoring versus La Ronge with 23 points between them in just four games.
The hosts are just as strong in net, as former Brandon Wheat Kings starter Joe Caligiuri posted a 2.59 goals-against average during the regular season and only got better in March and April. He went on to allow just 22 goals in 13 MJHL playoff contests and five in a trio of Anavet Cup games.
Vernon follows Saturday's opener with games against La Ronge, Oakville and Brockville. Follow all the RBC Cup action through the Hockey Canada website HERE.
