Photo credits: Garrett James Photography (Bowen, Zakall), James Doyle (Buono)
In our first of five pod previews, we take a look at the Chilliwack Pod, featuring the Chilliwack Chiefs, Merritt Centennials and Prince George Spruce Kings.
Chilliwack Chiefs
Record:
2019-20: 26-21-5-6
2020-21 exhibition: 3-3-1-1
Key returning players:
F Ethan Bowen
F Kyle Penney
F Brett Rylance
D Xavier Henry
G Mathieu Caron
Key additions:
F Massimo Rizzo
F Sasha Teleguine
F Ray Fust
D Lachlan Getz
D Jackson Munro
Outlook:
Even after losing some players during the layoff between exhibition and the start of the season, the Chiefs still lead the league in college-committed players with 14. With many of their key contributors back again this year and playing alongside some high-profile additions, the Chiefs should be the favourite to finish at the top of their pod standings.
Merritt Centennials
Record:
2019-20: 14-40-1-3
2020-21 exhibition: 2-5-0-0
Key returning players:
D Talon Zakall
F Ben Ward
F Jake McLean
Key additions:
F Alex Ochitwa
F Walker Erickson
F Brandon Dent
F Zack Dallazanna
G Josh Dias
Outlook:
Merritt was the lone team to miss out on the BCHL playoffs last season, but has looked to go younger and build for the future this season. Things were starting to come together offensively for the Cents in exhibition before the extended break, so look for the team to get rolling offensively before too long.
Prince George Spruce Kings
Record:
2019-20: 18-32-3-5
2020-21 exhibition: 4-2-0-1
Key returning players:
F Corey Cunningham
D Mason Waite
F Andrew Seaman
F Carter Cochrane
Key additions:
F Christian Buono
F Rowan Miller
F Max Borovinskiy
F Hunor Torzsok
G Aaron Trotter
Outlook:
With last year’s playoffs getting cancelled, the Spruce Kings are still the defending Fred Page Cup champions, although Corey Cunningham is the only player still left on the roster from that team. Prince George looked to be an improved team in exhibition compared to last year and will look to prove that come Saturday when they kick their season off.
