Played on Mar 7, 2025
Western Hockey League
Game Played in Art Hauser Centre
General Game Notes: Neutral Zone viewed the WHL matchup between the Saskatoon Blades and the Prince Albert Raiders on March 07, 2025. This was a tight contest that saw both teams have numerous strong scoring chances, but the Blades took full advantage of a double minor slew foot penalty in the second, scoring twice and scored early in the third to win this game. The Raiders looked like the stronger team on the ice, making more plays, hitting more, and getting more shots off, but just couldn’t finish their chances in the end.
Lukas Dragicevic (D, R, 6’1″, 200, Prince Albert Raiders, 04/25/2005)
Game Rating
A-
Dragicevic made an impressive debut, showcasing a strong all-around game. He demonstrated excellent puck movement under pressure in his own zone, quickly transitioning the play to set up counterattacks. Offensively, he was a dynamic force on the blue line, using his speed and agility to create space and generate scoring chances. His skating ability allowed him to weave up the ice and create opportunities with smart passes and shot selection. He also displayed physicality and toughness, making a big hit in his own corner and showing resilience when blocked by an opponent’s shot. Defensively, he was equally effective, using his stick to disrupt plays and his strength to win battles for the puck.
1 Viewing
Comments: Dragicevic played a well-rounded game, excelling both offensively and defensively. His gap control and ability to stick with shifty forwards made it difficult for opponents to create space against him. He stayed tight on his assignments, using his body and stick effectively to shut down opposing rushes. In transition, he was excellent at skating the puck out of his own zone, making controlled exits under pressure, and generating offense from the back end. He consistently used strong body positioning to cut in front of attacking forwards, taking possession cleanly and immediately moving the puck up ice. One of his best plays was a perfectly executed lead pass through the middle, sending his team on a 3-on-1 rush after catching the defense off guard. His ability to jump into the rush or quarterback a play from the blue line was notable, as he skated like a forward at times, seamlessly carrying the puck into the offensive zone and making smart plays to maintain possession. Defensively, he pinned a forward against the wall to stop an attempted cycle, forcing a turnover and clearing the puck. In one-on-one defensive situations, he maintained great stick positioning, deflecting a shot attempt away and neutralizing the scoring chance. On the offensive blue line, he showed high-end skill, walking the line with quick hands to evade pressure before getting well-placed shots through traffic.
Vojtech Vochvest (D, L, 5’11”, 195, Prince Albert Raiders, 10/20/2005)
Game Rating
C+
1 Viewing
Comments: Vochvest made his physical presence known early, stepping up at the blue line to deliver a big hit that stopped the rush in its tracks. He was aggressive in defensive-zone battles, using his body to gain inside positioning and control the play along the boards. His ability to hold the offensive blue line was also impressive, as he used his body to stop a rushing forward and kept the puck in the zone with a well-timed stick play.
Daxon Rudolph (D, R, 6’2″, 200, Prince Albert Raiders, 03/06/2008)
Game Rating
B
1 Viewing
Comments: Rudolph played a responsible defensive game, reading plays well and making smart pinches to disrupt the opposing team’s breakouts. One of his best moments came when he anticipated a pass and stepped in front of a forward to cut off the breakout attempt. Offensively, he got a heavy shot through traffic, forcing the goaltender to make a difficult save. His passing ability was also evident, as he quickly moved the puck to his winger in open ice, setting up a dangerous chance from the slot. Defensively, he was strong in critical moments, breaking up a 3-on-1 rush by aggressively challenging the puck carrier and getting down to block the passing lane, preventing what could have been a prime scoring chance.
Brayden Dube (RW, R, 5’10”, 176, Prince Albert Raiders, 09/22/2005, Bemidji State)
Game Rating
B
Brayden Dube showcased his hockey IQ by controlling the puck effectively along the blue line, making smart decisions to evade pressure and distribute it to his teammates. He was also notable for his strong work ethic, as seen when he beat out an icing call after a missed pass, indicating his willingness to engage in physical play. Offensively, Dube demonstrated a clever release on his shot, using his deceptively quick moves to create 1-on-1 scoring opportunities. This move allowed him to get shots off despite being outnumbered by defenders.
1 Viewing
Comments: Dube was a smart and effective playmaker, showing his composure in tight situations. On a 3-on-1 opportunity, he received a hard pass on his backhand, controlled it smoothly, and then delivered a perfect feed across the crease to his teammate for a high-quality scoring chance. His puck control was a major asset, as he skated into open ice and made smart decisions to extend offensive zone possession. His ability to continue the cycle and make clean passes under pressure allowed his team to maintain control in the attacking zone. He also displayed excellent speed and effort, winning a full-ice race from behind to secure possession and help his team set up in the offensive zone.
Oli Chenier (C, R, 5’10”, 185, Prince Albert Raiders, 01/26/2007)
Game Rating
B-
1 Viewing
Comments: Chenier demonstrated high-end offensive skill, particularly with his ability to manipulate defenders with fakes. He froze a defenseman with a deceptive move before sliding a pass to a teammate in the slot, leading to a one-time goal. His speed was also a major asset, as he carried the puck down the wing, faked to the middle, and executed a spin move around the defender, opening up a lane to the net for a quality shot. His ability to create scoring chances for both himself and his teammates made him a consistent offensive threat.
Aiden Oiring (C, L, 5’7″, 180, Prince Albert Raiders, 05/09/2005)
Game Rating
B
Aiden Oiring’s ability to navigate the ice with ease is a key aspect of his game. He excels at making quick movements between lanes, often catching opponents off guard. Oiring’s vision and passing skills are also noteworthy, as evidenced by a well-placed pass to a teammate that set him up for success on the other end of the ice. Oiring’s physicality is another notable aspect of his game, particularly in his ability to crash the net and capitalize on rebounds. His work ethic is consistently evident, with a strong focus on backchecking and shutting down opponents’ scoring chances.
1 Viewing
Comments: Oiring was reliable in all three zones, offering strong support in his own end by battling behind the net to help his defensemen win puck battles. In transition, he displayed great vision, sending a perfectly timed pass to a forward entering the offensive zone, allowing his teammate to get a clean break. He showed his toughness by taking a hit to make a play, demonstrating a willingness to sacrifice his body for the team. In the offensive zone, he positioned himself well at the top of the crease, and when a rebound came his way, he quickly lifted a backhand shot over the goalie’s pad for a well-earned goal.
Evan Smith (LW, R, 6’0″, 180, Prince Albert Raiders, 04/22/2006)
Game Rating
B-
1 Viewing
Comments: Smith was an effective forechecker, using his speed and anticipation to disrupt the opposing defense. He pressured the puck well, forcing turnovers and moving the puck up the boards to his teammates. Offensively, he had a quick release, showcasing it on a one-timer from the slot that beat the goalie clean. He also showed good awareness by finding a loose puck in the corner and making a quick pass to the net for a dangerous scoring chance.
Niall Crocker (RW, R, 6’4″, 200, Prince Albert Raiders, 07/31/2004, Ohio State)
Game Rating
B+
The player’s ability to control the puck was evident throughout the game, as they showcased impressive hand-eye coordination with a midair rebound goal. Their hockey IQ allowed them to make smart decisions on the ice, drawing defenders into the middle and creating space for teammates. They were highly engaged in all three zones, making impactful plays that contributed to their team’s offense and defense. A strong backcheck demonstrated their commitment to defending, as they used their stick to break up a drop pass. Additionally, they displayed speed and determination when winning foot races, setting up scoring opportunities for their teammates.
1 Viewing
Comments: Crocker was a strong two-way presence, particularly on the penalty kill, where he made smart plays to clear the puck and relieve pressure. He showed excellent composure when under pressure, grabbing possession, shielding the puck, turning, and firing it down the ice for an effective PK clear. His neutral zone awareness was also strong, as he pressured an opponent into a turnover with a well-placed stick check and then carried the puck deep into the offensive zone while shorthanded. He was confident with the puck, looking off a pass before pulling the puck around a defender and driving to the net for a quality scoring opportunity. His strength on the puck was evident as he absorbed contact from a defenseman, maintained possession, and sent a sharp pass across the slot for a prime scoring chance. Later in the game, he showcased his offensive instincts by carrying the puck into the zone and setting up a teammate with a well-placed feed for an open shot.
Ty Meunier (LW, L, 5’8″, 160, Prince Albert Raiders, 08/16/2008)
Game Rating
B-
1 Viewing
Comments: Meunier played with high energy, particularly on the forecheck, where he won a key puck race and gained possession for his team, allowing them to establish an offensive cycle. His ability to pressure defensemen and force them into rushed decisions was noticeable. He also showcased his offensive awareness, breaking in on a partial breakaway after receiving a well-placed pass. Despite having pressure on his back, he managed to get a strong shot off, narrowly missing a goal as the puck rang off the post.
Tomas Mrsic (C, L, 5’11”, 170, Prince Albert Raiders, 02/26/2006)
Game Rating
B+
Tomas Mrsic showcased his skillset as a dynamic and creative player. He demonstrated exceptional speed and agility, allowing him to quickly gain possession in the offensive zone and find space on the ice. His vision and awareness enabled him to make smart passes and set up scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. Mrsic was particularly effective on odd-man rushes and with his passing ability, which he showcased through a beautiful saucer pass that was nearly unstoppable.
1 Viewing
Comments: Mrsic played with speed and urgency, often being the first player on pucks and creating offensive chances through his quickness. He received a perfect breakaway pass after blowing by a defender on a 2-on-1, showcasing his acceleration. On the power play, he was a key playmaker, controlling the puck from the half-wall and setting up dangerous cross-ice passes. He was a major driver of controlled zone entries, carrying the puck through the middle before bouncing outside and getting shots off from distance.
Rilen Kovacevic (RW, R, 5’11”, 180, Prince Albert Raiders, 08/02/2004)
Game Rating
B-
Kovacevic displayed strong skillset throughout the game, showcasing his ability to control the tempo with smooth hands and quick acceleration. He effectively used his elite puck skills to create space and opportunities for himself and teammates, including a highlight-reel end-to-end rush. His skating allowed him to move freely around the ice, making him a threat from various positions. On defense, Kovacevic demonstrated excellent awareness, intercepting passes and capitalizing on loose pucks. He was able to read plays quickly and capitalize on mistakes by opponents. His speed and agility enabled him to outmaneuver defenders, resulting in two goals. Overall, Kovacevic’s skillset made him a valuable asset to his team.
1 Viewing
Comments: Kovacevic demonstrated his offensive instincts throughout the game, making the most of his chances in the attacking zone. He showed good puck control and patience, curling around a defenseman before firing a quick-release shot on goal. He consistently took advantage of open space, moving into prime scoring areas and getting high-quality shots off. His hands were on display as he attempted a high-skill play, dangling around two defenders before running out of space against the last man. While he couldn’t fully complete the move, his ability to navigate through traffic and create scoring opportunities was impressive.
Ben Saunderson (D, L, 6’0″, 191, Saskatoon Blades, 09/24/2004, Quinnipiac)
Game Rating
B-
Benjamin Saunderson’s exceptional skill set makes him a formidable asset on the blue line. He possesses excellent puck-handling skills, allowing him to create scoring opportunities from various angles. His ability to read the game and identify open lanes enables him to find the perfect spot for his shots. Additionally, his agility and quickness enable him to drag opposing players out of position, making him a master at creating space in dangerous scoring areas. Saunderson’s vision and passing skills also allow him to make precise passes into the high slot, setting up his teammates with scoring chances.
1 Viewing
Comments: Saunderson played a steady, responsible game on the back end. He made smart, efficient plays with the puck, including a crisp tape-to-tape pass up the middle that allowed a forward to enter the offensive zone with speed. His ability to move the puck under pressure helped his team transition quickly. Offensively, he showed good instincts. After retrieving a puck that had been wrapped around the boards, he wasted no time bursting to the middle and firing a shot on goal, showing decisiveness in attacking plays. Defensively, he made an impact with his willingness to block shots and sacrifice his body. With his team clinging to a one-goal lead in the final minute, he made a critical shot block to prevent a dangerous chance, demonstrating his commitment to playing a complete game.
Grayden Siepmann (D, R, 5’11”, 185, Saskatoon Blades, 05/26/2004, Minnesota Duluth)
Game Rating
C+
1 Viewing
Comments: Siepmann’s powerful skating was a key asset in his game. He had a strong stride that allowed him to cover a lot of ice quickly, whether he was breaking out of his own zone or closing gaps defensively. When he had the opportunity, he burst into open ice to create transition opportunities. His vision and awareness on breakouts were also strong. He scanned the ice well before making decisions and connected on a well-placed stretch pass to start an offensive rush.
Rowan Calvert (LW, L, 5’11”, 191, Saskatoon Blades, 10/01/2005)
Game Rating
C+
1 Viewing
Comments: Calvert was strong on the puck, using his size and balance to protect possession in tight spaces. He controlled pucks well in the corners, making tight turns to evade defenders while keeping his feet moving. His ability to handle physical play made him difficult to knock off the puck, and he helped sustain offensive pressure by cycling effectively.
Cooper Williams (C, L, 6’0″, 165, Saskatoon Blades, 02/18/2008)
Game Rating
B
1 Viewing
Comments: Williams showed excellent anticipation and hockey IQ, reading plays well and jumping into passing lanes to create turnovers. He played an opportunistic game, knocking down an icing attempt with his glove on the power play and quickly feeding a pass to the high slot for a goal. He also intercepted a D-to-D pass behind the opposing net and moved the puck to the front, leading to another goal. His ability to disrupt breakouts was also evident when he stepped up to steal a pass and quickly turned it into a scoring chance with a well-placed shot.
Hayden Harsanyi (LW, L, 5’9″, 175, Saskatoon Blades, 01/10/2007)
Game Rating
B+
1 Viewing
Comments: Harsanyi was one of the most noticeable players on the ice, showcasing his exceptional skating ability. His stride is smooth, allowing him to glide effortlessly and pick up speed without wasting movement. He used this ability effectively to create space for himself and his teammates, taking advantage of open lanes in the offensive zone. Whether carrying the puck through the neutral zone or making quick cuts in tight spaces, he constantly applied pressure on defenders. Defensively, he demonstrated strong positional awareness. He tracked back well and provided reliable support in his own zone, taking straight lines to loose pucks and tying up his man in front of the net. His defensive responsibility made him a reliable option in all situations, as he didn’t just focus on offensive opportunities but also helped prevent high-danger chances against. In the offensive zone, Harsanyi was quick and unpredictable. He made shifty moves along the boards, using quick bursts to dart toward the net or pounce on loose pucks. His ability to carry the puck through the middle with speed made him difficult to contain, as he gained control of the offensive zone with confidence. He played an active role on the powerplay, taking a well-placed shot designed to create a big rebound for second-chance opportunities. His ability to make tight turns in the corners allowed him to shake off defenders while keeping his head up, always looking for his next play.
Hunter Laing (RW, R, 6’5″, 205, Saskatoon Blades, 05/16/2006)
Game Rating
B-
1 Viewing
Comments: Laing, a big right-handed forward, showed his scoring touch with a pair of well-executed goals. On the power play, he received a pass in the middle, took one quick step to adjust his angle, and snapped a wrist shot into the net. Later, he positioned himself well in the slot, floating into open ice as a teammate won a puck battle in the corner. When the pass came, he wasted no time burying it.
Tanner Scott (LW, L, 5’9″, 175, Saskatoon Blades, 05/31/2004, Bowling Green)
Game Rating
C+
1 Viewing
Comments: Scott brought a relentless energy to his game, especially on the forecheck. He was aggressive in pressuring defenders, winning puck battles in the corners, and disrupting the opponent’s breakout attempts. His work ethic in the offensive zone kept plays alive and allowed his team to maintain possession. What stood out most was his commitment to the defensive side of the game. He made an impressive backcheck, hustling to catch an opposing forward who was breaking down the wing. This effort prevented a dangerous scoring opportunity and showed his strong two-way instincts. Scott’s first three strides were particularly effective, allowing him to accelerate quickly and get involved in plays at both ends of the ice.
Frantisek Dej (C, L, 6’4″, 215, Saskatoon Blades, 02/28/2005)
Game Rating
B-
1 Viewing
Comments: Dej played a controlled, steady game. He was able to carry the puck through the neutral zone and gain clean zone entries, making smart decisions with possession. While not the strongest skater, he protected the puck well and picked his routes effectively. He made a key shot block late in the game, showing his defensive awareness. However, he made an unforced error when he was too casual on an empty-net chance, missing the net on a backhand attempt and giving the opposing team one last rush down the ice.
David Lewandowski (LW, L, 6’1″, 180, Saskatoon Blades, 02/20/2007)
Game Rating
B-
David Lewandowski showcases exceptional skillset in tight spaces, utilizing his slick hands to maneuver through narrow areas. He can effectively fake out defenders with quick footwork, leaving them behind as he weaves past them. When moving into open space, Lewandowski demonstrates strong vision and passing ability, picking up the puck after losing control and launching a precise pass to a teammate in the slot. Additionally, his ability to play without the puck on his stick allows him to create scoring opportunities through clever footwork and deception.
1 Viewing
Comments: Lewandowski was active in all three zones, using his speed to contribute offensively and defensively. He made a strong drive toward the net after skating around the top of the zone and down the wall. Defensively, he stayed tight on his man and blocked a shot by maintaining good positioning. On a one-on-one rush, he showed good speed but could improve his shot release, as he telegraphed his attempt, allowing the defender to get a stick on it.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images