Sometimes, all you need is a single win to get your mojo back. That’s what Ontario Reign coach Marco Sturm is likely hoping for heading into Wednesday night’s game against the visiting San Jose Barracuda.
Following Sunday’s victory — where Kings prospect Brandt Clarke scored his first AHL goal — Sturm indicated he plans to keep Alex Turcotte and Quinton Byfield on the same line for now. In fact, we’re expecting most of his forward groupings together on Wednesday.
Veteran Nate Thompson did not skate in practice on Tuesday. However, he was a full participant on Wednesday morning, prior to the team leaving for Ontario. He should slot back in at 3C, as Akil Thomas remains sidelined with an injury suffered Saturday in Henderson.
Defensively, we’re expecting Kim Nousiainen to rotate out, similar to what he’s been doing about every other game of late.
ICYMI — John Hoven was on Bally Sports West on Tuesday night discussing what’s next for Byfield, Clarke, and Turcotte:
VIDEO: Hoven on Kings Intermission Report via Bally Sports West
This will be the third game between Ontario and San Jose this season. Both previous events were decided by a single goal; with the Reign winning a 2-1 affair in late October and coming up short in a 4-3 shootout a few weeks ago.
ONTARIO REIGN PROJECTED LINEUP vs. SAN JOSE BARRACUDA
Turcotte – Byfield – Madden
Ward – Tynan – Fagemo
Quine – Thompson – Dudas
Lee – Helenius – Chromiak
Björnfot – Spence
Gaunce – Clarke
Bisson – Grans
Copley
Villalta
Game scratches: Allard, Doty, Nousiainen, Thomas, Wagner
Puck drop is scheduled for 7pm PST today and the game can be viewed on AHL TV.
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