Calm Before The Storm

It’s been a fairly quiet week in Sea Dogs land. The team hasn’t played since Saturday, but things should pick up tomorrow when a tough two-game road trip kicks off.

A few things and thoughts on a Thursday night:

• The AHL website has an article on former Sea Dogs defenseman Eric Gelinas. “I think the main differences [between junior and AHL] are the speed, the size of the guys, their strength, and the skills too,” he said. “Here everyone’s good so you’ve got to play at the top of your game all the time.”
• Shawinigan beat Rouyn-Noranda 4-2 tonight. They are now three points back of the Sea Dogs for first place but have played one more game.
• While the Cataractes are still trying to catch Saint John for first place, they have some company in the rear-view mirror. With four games to go, the Quebec Remparts are just two points back for the Telus East Division lead.
• Massive game on Sunday in Shawinigan as the Sea Dogs and Cataractes meet for the final time this regular season. If you haven’t read Andrew McGilligan’s column on the rivalry, it’s time to stop living in the past and read it up.
• In the race for the final playoff spot, the PEI Rocket are four points back of the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles. Both have five games remaining. The team that finishes in last place has the unfortunate title of being the only team in the QMJHL to not make the playoffs.
• UNB beat UdeM 4-2 tonight at the Aitken Centre, taking a 2-0 series lead.
• We travelled to Halifax to watch Wednesday’s Mooseheads game (pictured). The Moose beat Bathurst 7-0 despite being outshot 35-30. First time we’ve seen a fan throw a shirt back on the ice during the t-shirt toss.
• Not sure what to even think of this. It took place last Friday in the Harbour Station lobby.

The Sea Dogs take on the Chicoutimi Sagueneens tomorrow night at 8:30pm. Follow our live blog for coverage.