The Prince George Cougars and Kelowna Rockets meet for a seventh time this season tonight in Prince George. Last night, Kelowna earned a hard-fought 4-2 victory, thanks in large part to their goaltender and some timely offense. Can the Cougars bounce back tonight? Here’s what they’ll be up against.

Overview:

The stakes truly could not be higher for the Kelowna Rockets as they head into action tonight. A win for the Rockets would move them into a tie for first place in the B.C. Division with Kamloops. Kelowna though would have the edge, since they own a game in hand. The Rockets are 9-1 in their last 10 games and are 28-10-1-1 through 40 games this season.

Who’s Up Front:

With so much attention surrounding the likes of Myles Bell and Colton Sissons, Zach Franko has very quietly but very consistently put together a stellar season for the Kelowna Rockets. Franko has registered 14 multi-point games so far this season, and is second on the team with 47 points which is just six points shy of his season high of 53. Franko has put up nine points in five games so far this season against Prince George.

Who’s on D:

The strength of the Kelowna Rockets back-end is their consistency. Last night, head coach Ryan Huska didn’t seem to hesitate rolling through all of his defense pairings, and all of whom seemed to contribute something valuable to the victory. Colten Martin was a +3 in last night’s game, and he along with partner Damon Severson were probably the most consistent defensive duo for Kelowna.

Who’s in Goal:

How hot is Rockets goaltender Jordan Cooke? He’s won 12 straight decisions, and was a big difference maker in last night’s game, particularly in the first period when his team was outshot 10-4. Cooke made two magnificent saves off of Jake Mykitiuk in the first half of the game, which kept his team tied. Does Jordan Cooke get the nod again tonight? Or does Ryan Huska elect to start Jackson Whistle in the second game of back-to-back games?

X-Factor:

Last night we saw just how effective the Rockets special-teams can be. While their power play was somewhat underwhelming, their penalty kill was outstanding. The Cougars power play struggled to get things set up, and it seemed as if the Rockets certainly used their penalty-kill to gain some momentum back during the course of the game. It will take a similar effort on special teams tonight for the Rockets to find success.

Overview:

Though the Cougars will never use injuries as an excuse, it’s hard to look at the number of key pieces missing from the lineup, and not sympathize with their situation. Last night they were without nine regulars and still put forth a solid effort against the Rockets. The situation will be similar tonight for the Cougars, who will need to dig deep, keep things extremely simple, and make the most of their opportunities. With Everett and Vancouver both winning last night, even more pressure is on the Cougars to grab a victory to keep pace.

Who’s Up Front:

20-year-old forward Ryan Hanes will suit up for his 200^th game in the Western Hockey League tonight. Since joining the Cougars, Hanes has scored five times, and has provided the club with a wealth of character and leadership. Hanes opened the scoring last night for the Cougars, and will no doubt be looked upon to play an energetic, and dependable game again tonight for the Cougars.

Who’s on D:

The Cougars played last night’s game with only five defenceman, and barring any last minute changes it will be the same scenario tonight. The Cougars saw first-hand last night how opportunistic that Kelowna Rockets can be when they’re given chances. Tonight the entire group will need to bring their best defensive effort possible, and minimize Kelowna’s offensive opportunities. If they can do that, they’ll give themselves a better chance to be successful.

Who’s In Goal:

With Brett Zarowny battling illness, Mac Engel was the Cougars lone option last night between the pipes. Engel faced 27 shots and turned aside 23, and once again barring any unexpected moves, will get the call tonight. Engel has not had an easy go over the past three games, but certainly has the capabilities to steal a game when necessary. The Cougars are going to need Mac Engel to be in top form tonight if they want to snag two points from the Rockets.

X-Factor:

Dean Clark highlighted the first period from last night’s game as one that the Cougars need to emulate in tonight’s game. Last night the Cougars outshot Kelowna 10-4 in the opening frame, and did everything but score. It will be important for the Cougars to get off to a fast start again tonight, and if they can score an early goal, get the crowd going, and give the bench some early confidence – It would bode extremely well for them tonight.