Friday, August 27, 2010

Stockton Thunder Makes Trade With Greenville / #StkThunder


08/26/2010 1:00 PM - McKenzie, acquired for Igor Gongalsky, was Ottawa draft selection in 2004 and has 64 games experience in AHL
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MORE: JIM McKENZIE CAREER STATISTICS
VIDEO: Matt O'Dette discusses Jim McKenzie for Igor Gongalsky deal

STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers and San Jose Sharks, has acquired right wing Jim McKenzie from the Greenville Road Warriors in exchange for left wing Igor Gongalsky (gawn-GALL-skee), Thunder head coach Matt Thomas announced today.

Jim McKenzie(photo by Andre Ringuette
/NHLi via Getty Images)
"Jim is a player possessing a large frame and impressive offensive tools that fit the role of an imposing power forward," said Thomas. "In the last few seasons, he has demonstrated the knack for scoring and contains upside to his game that has already been proven with significant playing time in the American Hockey League. We're excited about how he fits with our physical, in-your-face team identity."

McKenzie, 26, was originally selected by the Ottawa Senators in the fifth round (141st overall) of the 2004 NHL Entry Draft and has appeared in 98 career games in the ECHL, spanning two seasons (2007-08, 2009-10) with the Elmira Jackals and Johnstown Chiefs, scoring 25 goals and 59 points (25g-34a) while collecting 150 penalty minutes. He has one goal in six career Kelly Cup Playoff games.

Last year, the 6-foot-2, 210-pound winger posted career-highs in goals (16), assists (24) and points (40) in 55 games for Johnstown.

McKenzie has also skated in 64 career games throughout three seasons (2007-10) in the AHL with the Binghamton Senators and Lake Erie Monsters, scoring eight points (3g-5a) while posting 33 penalty minutes.

The St. Paul, Minn. native played in 112 career college games with Michigan State University (NCAA), spanning three years (2004-07) while scoring 34 goals and 76 points (34g-42a). He achieved career-highs as a 2006-07 junior when he scored 30 points (12g-18a) in 35 games for the Spartans.

Gongalsky, 24, has appeared in 176 career games in the ECHL with the Thunder and Fresno Falcons and in the AHL with the San Antonio Rampage, scoring 104 points (42g-62a) and posting 358 penalty minutes.

A selection to the National Conference All-Star roster in 2008, he scored 14 goals, 31 points (14g-17a) in 55 games for the Thunder and added nine points (2g-7a) in 14 playoff games last season.

OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION

Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 15, when the Thunder opens the 2010-11 regular season at home against the Ontario Reign, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena. The Thunder and Alaska Aces meet in the preseason opener on Oct. 5 at Sullivan Arena, beginning at 8:15 p.m. The Thunder and Ontario Reign square off in the only preseason game at Stockton Arena on Friday, Oct. 8 at 7:30 p.m.

The Thunder are freezing Season Ticket Prices for the 2010-11 season, which are on sale now can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 or by visiting http://www.stocktonthunder.com/. Thunder Season Ticket Holders enjoy the highest-demanded seating locations in Stockton Arena, preferred parking options, benefits including admission to Season Ticket Holder-only events, discount opportunities on Thunder merchandise, a free e-newsletter, an exclusive gift, admission to the first two rounds of the Kelly Cup Playoffs and more. Information on individual and group tickets will be announced soon.

A two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the fifth consecutive season in 2009-10. Season Tickets and mini-plans for 2010-11 are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

-Written by the Stockton Thunder-

I Have Been Shut Down! and Other Random Jambalaya Thoughts


Yes, I am moving to a new house and the internet will be shut off from today till Sunday. Then we are back. So please no crying that OilersJambalaya.com is going anywhere. We're not, I was kidding in the title.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

RANDOM JAMBALAYA

- So what does everyone think of the new OIL TERMINAL podcast? I loved it. I thought that Eric and Scott where really good at it and they seemed to work well together. It was quite enjoyable. I would like some arguing once in a while though. You guys can't always agree. ;) Maybe they need a splash of Smokin' Ray in there?

- When is Gagner going to get signed? WTF is the holdup? Maybe he DID receive some offers from other teams and he's just making the Oilers sweat it out? All I know is I want this kid signed ASAP.

- Notice how I didn't wonder about Cogs? Maybe I'm over him already? Isn't he traded yet?

- How awesome is that that the OKC Barons are coming to Calgary? February 17th the Barons will take on the Abbotsford Heat in Calgary. The Saddledome should be packed for that game. Maybe we will have a OilersJambalaya.com and OilFieldHockey.com meet up at the game?

- Speaking of the Barons, if you have never been there, you should check out okcbarons.com. They have pretty good website that is just waiting to get going once the season starts. The new season is just about ready to get started. GO BARONS GO!

- Finally, the AHL has realeased their schedules for this up coming season. Check it out here.

- I wish I would have listened to Jack Michaels when the Stockton Thunder was playing the Alaska Aces in the Kelly Cup playoffs. I, for obvious reasons, listened to Mike Benton (Stockton's media guy and the Play by Play guy) instead. Mike's been great to us here at OJ, but I am now wishing I checked out Michaels then.

- Also speaking of the Thunder. Check out StocktonThunder.com. Great site and great people running it.

- If you or someone you know is going to the Young Stars tournament, let us know. We want to hear your take on things.

SEE EVERYONE SUNDAY NIGHT!!!

-Written by Smokin' Ray-

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Introducing "The Oil Terminal"


OilFieldHockey.com and OilersJambalaya.com are happy to bring our readers "The Oil Terminal". The Oil Terminal is our podcast of news and our opinions of what's going on in the Oilers Organization. You can find our latest podcast on "The Oil Terminal" tab at the top of Oilfieldhockey.com or by clicking here. Also you can either download the podcast(MP3 format) for offline listening to your device of choice, or you can listen to it right from the Podbean Player on the page. If you have a Comment or have a Question for The Oil Terminal Team, please email us at theoilterminal@oilfieldhockey.com. Or you can message us on Twitter, and be sure to follow us on twitter at @OilFieldHockey, @AHLBarons, and @OilersJambalaya. To stay up to date about we're talking about today, and the latest news from the Oilers, Barons, and the Stockton Thunder.

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

The Stockton Thunder Back In The Hunt(s) / #StkThunder


08/25/2010 10:49 AM - Two-time "Fan Favorite" Award Recipient Garet Hunt, brother Trevor return to Stockton for 2010-11

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MORE: GARET HUNT CAREER STATISTICS
MORE: TREVOR HUNT CAREER STATISTICS
VIDEO: Matt Thomas Discusses the Return of Garet and Trevor Hunt
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Garet Hunt (right) scraps with Brendan Milnamow of the Idaho Steelheads. (photo by Sean Blair)

STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers and San Jose Sharks, and head coach Matt Thomas announced today the team has signed unrestricted free agent left wing Garet Hunt and rookie defenseman Trevor Hunt. Per club policy, terms of the deals were not disclosed.

The transaction reunites the brothers, who played together on the Thunder 2009-10 squad that made its first appearance in the Conference Final. They have increased the total to five players returning from last season's team.

"Garet brings back familiar elements of energy, work ethic and fearlessness that are vital supplements for our team and have deservedly earned the admiration of our fan base," said Thomas. "He provides energy with the way his style rubs off on the rest of our group. He's handled his role as a true professional and realizes how it fits into our scheme, but is aware of the possibilities for his continued development."

Of Trevor Hunt, Thomas said, "Trevor enters his first full season with a lot of promise and potential. We were impressed with how he handled the professional environment coming out of college last year and we're looking for him to contribute with a solid, two-way style, similar to what Ryan Constant has provided over the last two seasons. He won't back down physically, is capable of handling the puck and possesses a hard shot from the point that we're excited to continue developing."

Garet, 22, will be entering his third season as a member of the Thunder and has been the recipient of the Thunder "Fan Favorite" Award for two consecutive seasons. He has spent his entire ECHL career of two seasons (2008-10) in a Thunder uniform, suiting up in 115 career games, scoring 28 points (10g-18a) while ranking second on the Thunder all-time list with 463 penalty minutes.

The 5-foot-8, 190-pound forward has also appeared in 26 lifetime Kelly Cup Games, scoring eight points (6g-2a) and totaling 30 penalty minutes.

Last season, Garet led the Thunder with 215 penalty minutes in 52 games and added five goals and 12 points (5g-7a). He scored four points (2g-2a) in 12 Kelly Cup Playoff games, including a game-winning goal.

In 193 career games, spanning four seasons (2004-08) in the Western Hockey League with the Vancouver Giants, he collected 542 penalty minutes and 41 points (16g-25a).

"I wanted to come back to Stockton because of many factors," said Garet. "I'm really looking forward to a special opportunity in playing alongside my brother. The fan support at Stockton Arena is second to none and I've really enjoyed my role and the opportunities to grow under Coach Thomas' style. He gives us a chance to win the Kelly Cup and that's the ultimate goal. I've got a good feeling about our chances this year."

"I'm looking forward to playing with Garet and enjoying that opportunity for the whole season," said Trevor. "From the time I spent in Stockton, late last season, the feel I got from the fans and community was incredible. It makes me excited for the upcoming year. I'm looking forward to contributing by playing a defensively sound, physical style and generating offense when the chances come my way."
Trevor Hunt generated two
assists in 8 ECHL games
from the blueline, coming
out of college.
(photo by George Steckler)


Trevor, 24, will enter his first full season of professional hockey after originally signing an amateur tryout contract with the Thunder on March 17, 2010 and notching two assists and 15 penalty minutes in eight ECHL games.

Previously, the 5-foot-10, 190-pound blueliner spent all four seasons (2006-10) of his college hockey career at the University of Alaska-Anchorage (NCAA), suiting up in 100 games for the Seawolves while totaling 22 points (5g-17a) and 114 penalty minutes.

As a 2008-09 junior, he recorded a career-high 12 points (4g-8a), four goals and eight assists in 36 games.

OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION
Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 15, when the Thunder opens the 2010-11 regular season at home against the Ontario Reign, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena. The Thunder and Alaska Aces meet in the preseason opener on Oct. 5 at Sullivan Arena, beginning at 8:15 p.m. The Thunder and Ontario Reign square off in the only preseason game at Stockton Arena on Friday, Oct. 8 at 7:30 p.m.

The Thunder are freezing Season Ticket Prices for the 2010-11 season, which are on sale now can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (209) 373-1500 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or by visiting http://www.stocktonthunder.com/. Thunder Season Ticket Holders enjoy the highest-demanded seating locations in Stockton Arena, preferred parking options, benefits including admission to Season Ticket Holder-only events, discount opportunities on Thunder merchandise, a free e-newsletter, an exclusive gift, admission to the first two rounds of the Kelly Cup Playoffs and more. Information on individual and group tickets will be announced soon.

A two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the fifth consecutive season in 2009-10. Season Tickets and mini-plans for 2010-11 are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (209) 373-1500 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

-Written by the Stocktn Thunder-

AHL Schedule Announced!


The AHL released their season schedule today. The Barons will open up their season and a 4 game homestand on Oct 9th in Oklahoma City against the Houston Aeros. They will play the Chicago Wolves the next day. Their first game against the defending Western Conference champions, the Texas Stars, will be Nov 5th in OKC. That game will also kick off an 8 game homestand. The Barons first trip to Canada will be Oct 23rd to take on the Toronto Marlies and the Hamilton Bulldogs the following night. Feb 17th, the Barons will travel to Calgary to take on the Abbotsford Heat in the Saddledome. To check out the entire Barons schedule, click here.

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

The Young Stars Tournament, is it Important to the Oilers?



If the Edmonton Oilers rookies don't dominate the Young Stars tournament and go undefeated, is that considered a fail? Is this tournament a definite measure of how good our rookies actually are? How much impact does this have for these kids in the long run? How is this Oilers team going to fare against the other rookie teams they are facing? Hmmmm...

After looking at the Calgary Flames Young Stars roster, I think the Oilers have a good chance to win that game. Other than the more experienced goaltending and a couple of forwards, the Flames don't have a top notch roster. No doubt though, based on skill (Hall, Eberle & Paajarvi) I think the Oilers should win this one.

Here is the San Jose Sharks roster. They look beatable no? Sure the Sharks rookies are pretty big, but with the Oilers speed and skill, they should out preform those pesky sharks. If the Oilers do lose one game out of the three, it's this one against the Sharks.

What about the Vancouver Canucks? Here is their roster. Do think the Oil can win this game too? I do. They are led by Cody Hodgson who has some experience so they will be a decent group, but with the Oilers fire power, the Oilers should have the advantage in a straight up run and gun game. If I'm a betting man, this game I put my money on the Oilers.

So if the Oilers play it out like that, a 2 wins, 1 loss record is pretty good. Let's just see what happens. I suppose the big question will be to see if they can get it together and work as a team right from day 1?

Anything less than a 2 wins 1 loss record will not be disastrous, but definitely not a good thing for the organization, publicity included. But then again, I may be reading too much into a rookie tournament. Maybe this is all fluff and show and not meat and potatoes like I'm thinking it is?

Regardless, I can't wait to see these kids in action.

On a side note: Look at the roster below and pay attention for these games. Many of these kids might be with the OKC Barons this year and there isn't much footage from there.

HERE IS THE OILERS ROSTER

Forwards
Cameron Abney RW Right 6' 4" 192 23 May 1991 Aldergrove, BC, CAN
Philippe Cornet LW LEFT 6' 0" 173 28 Mar 1990 Val-Senneville, QC, CAN
Drew Czerwonka LW LEFT 6' 2" 192 1 Jul 1992 Glenavon, SK, CAN
Jordan Eberle C Right 5' 10" 174 15 May 1990 Regina, SK, CAN
Taylor Hall LW Left 6' 1" 185 14 Nov 1991 Calgary, AB, CAN
Curtis Hamilton LW Left 6' 3" 202 4 Dec 1991 Kelowna, BC, CAN
Teemu Hartikainen C Left 6' 1" 198 3 May 1990 Kuopio, FIN
Milan Kytnar C Left 6' 0" 180 19 May 1989 Topolcany, SVK
James Livingston RW Right 6' 1" 210 8 MAR 1990 Newmarket, ON, CAN camp invite
Ryan Martindale C Left 6' 3" 183 27 Oct 1991 Brooklin, ON, CAN
Magnus Paajarvi LW Left 6' 1" 201 12 Apr 1991 Norrkoping, SWE
Kristians Pelss F Left 5' 11" 179 9 Sep 1992 Preili, LATVIA
Tyler Pitlick C Right 6' 2" 194 1 Nov 1991 Centerville, MN, USA
Chase Schaber C Left 6' 0" 194 3 JAN 1991 Red Deer, AB, CAN camp invite
Mike Thomas RW Right 6' 0" 185 8 FEB 1990 New Maryland, NB, CAN camp invite
Chris Vande Velde C Left 6' 2" 190 15 Mar 1987 Moorhead, MN, USA

Defencemen
Jordan Bendfeld Right 6' 2" 216 2 FEB 1988 Leduc, AB, CAN
Jeremie Blain Right 6' 2" 190 19 Mar 1992 Longueuil, QC, CAN
Brandon Davidson Left 6' 1" 190 21 Aug 1991 Taber, AB, CAN
Dallas Ehrhardt Left 6' 4" 210 31 Jul 1992 CALGARY, AB, CAN camp invite
Martin Marincin Left 6' 4" 187 18 Feb 1992 Kosice, SVK
Johan Motin Right 6' 1" 202 10 Oct 1989 Karlskoga, SWE
Jeff Petry Right 6' 3" 176 9 Dec 1987 Ann Arbor, MI, USA
Alex Plante Right 6' 4" 225 9 MAY 1989 BRANDON, MB, CAN
Dominik Schlumpf Left 6' 1" 175 3 MAR 1991 Switzerland camp invite
Nolan Toigo Left 6' 1" 187 22 JUL 1989 Delta, BC, CAN camp invite

Goaltenders
Tyler Bunz Left 6' 1" 196 11 Feb 1992 St. Albert, AB, CAN
Bryan Pitton Left 6' 2" 168 26 Jan 1988 Mississauga, ON, CAN
Olivier Roy Left 6' 0" 165 12 Jul 1991 Amqui, QC, CAN

HERE IS THE SCHEDULE

Game 1 Vancouver vs Edmonton Sept. 12 4:00pm
Game 2 San Jose vs Anaheim Sept. 12 7:30pm
Game 3 Anaheim vs Calgary Sept. 13 4:00pm
Game 4 San Jose vs Vancouver Sept. 13 7:30pm
Game 5 Calgary vs Edmonton Sept. 14 7:30pm
Game 6 Anaheim vs Vancouver Sept. 15 4:00pm
Game 7 Edmonton vs San Jose Sept. 15 7:30pm
Game 8 Calgary vs Vancouver Sept. 16 12:00pm

**Don't forget that we will have the LIVE TweetCast of the tournament AND we will have the LIVE streaming Oilers games shown right here in the comfort our site. ;) **
-Written by Smokin' Ray-

Are You Attending The Rookie Young Stars Tournament?

As most of you know, we here (the Jambalaya Family and OFH.com) like to do LIVE TweetCast's of events that most people can't attend to provide a more in depth look at what is going on.

The Young Stars tournament is no exception.

We are looking for people who will be at the tournament that can tweet what they see as it unfolds. We need the help of you to make this a success.

If you are going, let us know ( email ) so we can have your tweets included in our LIVE TweetCast of the Young Stars tournament. This will indeed be a special rookie tournament for all those that get to watch it live.

Stay tuned in September for the Jambalaya families and the OilFieldHockey.com LIVE TweetCast and LIVE video footage of the games.

Brought To You By:
OilFieldHockey
Oilers Jambalaya
Flames Jambalaya
Canucks Jambalaya

Jack Michaels Is The New Play By Play Guy

The Edmonton Oilers have hired a new voice for the team. Jack Michaels will be the guy behind the mic. We look forward to hearing him call the games and this announcement was a big mystery to all that followed. Good luck Jack and welcome to Oil Country.

-Smokin' Ray-

Here is what the Oilers say about Jack. As per the Oilers website:


Tuesday, 24.08.2010 / 9:30 AM / News By Edmonton Oilers Press Release

Jack Michaels, the Oilers new play-by-play voice.

The Edmonton Oilers today announced that Jack Michaels has been named to the position of radio play by play voice of the Edmonton Oilers. Michaels will partner with host and color commentator Bob Stauffer in delivering all Oilers games via the Oilers Radio Network and flagship station 630 CHED.


“We welcome Jack to Oil Country,” said Oilers President and CEO Patrick LaForge. “We underwent a comprehensive search to find the right voice with the right credentials and chemistry to launch this new era of Oilers Radio.”


Jack Michaels, the Oilers
new play-by-play voice.
Michaels, a veteran of over 900 hockey broadcasts, joins the Oilers after eight seasons as the radio and television voice of the ECHL’s Alaska Aces. While with the Aces, Michaels was honoured as the ECHL Broadcaster of the Year in 2004 and was selected by the ECHL to broadcast their annual All Star Game on five separate occasions. Last year’s All Star broadcast was available to over 80 million homes on the NHL Network and Fox Sports West.


“An NHL play by play job has been a dream and believe me this is now a dream come true,” said Michaels. “I know fans have keenly listened to Oilers broadcasts for three decades of fabulous moments, and frankly I can’t wait to get started.”


NHL Hall of Fame broadcaster Mike Emrick, voice of NHL Hockey on NBC said of Michaels, “I first met Jack five years ago, and was immediately struck by the quality of his call, his professionalism and his passion for the game. He’s a great young guy who has it all. There is no question he is 100% NHL ready."


Michaels’ career began after graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree from Ithaca College in New York. He started as a sports reporter at Cornell University and Ithaca College and then moved on to Erie Pennsylvania and New York City as a Sports Reporter and Production Assistant. Michaels then moved full-time to the hockey world, joining the Colorado Gold Kings of the WCHL where he was the play by play voice for three seasons before moving to Anchorage, Alaska.


Michaels and Stauffer will broadcast all Edmonton Oilers games this year with the exception of 10 ‘Rod’s Classics’ games when Rod Phillips, the Oilers Hall of Fame voice for the past 37 years, will be in the play by play chair.


Edmonton Oilers hockey is presented in part by the Rexall Family of Pharmacies, Molson Canadian, ATB Financial, TELUS, Cenovus Energy and Ford.

Sunday, August 22, 2010

The Latest Stockton Thunder Signing, Scott Howes #StkThunder


08/18/2010 8:07 AM - Third year pro makes Stockton his second ECHL stop after two years in Victoria

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MORE: SCOTT HOWES CAREER STATISTICS
VIDEO: "The Goal" - TSN Highlight of the Night
VIDEO: Matt Thomas discusses signing left winger Scott Howes


STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers and San Jose Sharks, and head coach Matt Thomas announced today the team has signed unrestricted free agent left wing Scott Howes (HOWZ). Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Scott Howes, at just 22 years of age,
brings 13 career multi-point
games to the Thunder.
(photo by Anne-Marie Sorvin)

Howes, 22, will enter his third year at the professional level after spending the last two ECHL seasons with the Victoria Salmon Kings, scoring 22 goals and 48 points (22g-26a) while adding a +1 rating in 86 career games. He was originally signed to an American Hockey League contract by the Manitoba Moose on July 3, 2008.

"Scott brings an elite level of skill and scoring ability that we're excited to add to our lineup," said Thomas. "Additionally, it's thrilling to realize that he still has room to grow as a young player at the pro level. Through the recruiting process, it's become very evident that his thirst for success and competitive desire will make a terrific fit for the group and type of culture we've developed here in Stockton."

The 5-foot-11, 190-pound forward earned a career-high 12 goals and 26 points (12g-14a) last season in 47 games last year for Victoria. During the season, he earned an assist on a Jan. 15, 2010 goal by Adam Taylor against the Bakersfield Condors that was featured in Canada as the "TSN Highlight of the Night" and also on ESPN.com. The originally posted highlight video has collected over one million views on YouTube.com.

Howes suited up in five AHL games for Manitoba in 2008-09, collecting two penalty minutes.

"If there was any new team I was going to end up with, I told my agent, right from the start, that I wanted it to be Stockton," said Howes. "I'm looking forward to staying in the same conference and the support in each game from Thunder fans, who are the loudest and most loyal I've ever seen in one building for my pro career. It's also where I scored the first hat trick of my career, so it already holds a special meaning."

The native of Toronto spent two years (2006-08) of his major junior career with Drummondville and Saint John of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, skating in 113 career games while scoring 118 points (68g-50a) and 68 goals.

Howes led the Sea Dogs with 42 goals in 2007-08 and was the club's leading scorer in the playoffs, notching 26 points (15g-11a) and 15 goals in 14 postseason games.

OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION

Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 15, when the Thunder opens the 2010-11 regular season at home against the Ontario Reign, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena. The Thunder and Alaska Aces meet in the preseason opener on Oct. 5 at Sullivan Arena, beginning at 8:15 p.m. The Thunder and Ontario Reign square off in the only preseason game at Stockton Arena on Friday, Oct. 8 at 7:30 p.m.

The Thunder are freezing Season Ticket Prices for the 2010-11 season, which are on sale now can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 or by visiting http://www.stocktonthunder.com/. Thunder Season Ticket Holders enjoy the highest-demanded seating locations in Stockton Arena, preferred parking options, benefits including admission to Season Ticket Holder-only events, discount opportunities on Thunder merchandise, a free e-newsletter, an exclusive gift, admission to the first two rounds of the Kelly Cup Playoffs and more. Information on individual and group tickets will be announced soon.

A two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the fifth consecutive season in 2009-10. Season Tickets and mini-plans for 2010-11 are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

-Written by Stockton Thunder-

Summer Winds Down




As summer winds down, it signifies many things, the most important being, the new hockey season. For the Oilers it has not been the whirl-wind offseason like it was last year with a certain selfish sniper named Dany Heatley. But, that is long forgotten (somewhat), and as we Oilers fans begin to speculate who has it to make the NHL squad, let's take a look back at what transactions took place in this rather satisfying offseason for the Edmonton Oilers after their historic draft:

June 29 - Oilers waive Captain Ethan Moreau, who is picked up by the Columbus Blue Jackets on June 30th
June 30 - Oilers trade Patrick O'Sullivan for more than he's worth (a bag of pucks in my opinion), and received Jim Vandermeer from the Phoenix Coyotes (O'Sullivan's contract is bought out by the Coyotes hours after the trade)
June 30 - Oilers buy out the remainder of Robert Nilsson's contract, he signs with KHL's Salavat Yulaev on July 23rd
July 1 - Oilers sign big D-man Kurtis Foster, who has a had a very tough career but is a very solid player.
July 1 - Oilers UFA Charles Linglet signs with KHL's Nijni Novgorod
July 2 - Oilers UFA Chris Minard signs with the Detroit Red Wings
July 2 - Oilers sign UFA Richard Petiot to a 1-year contract
July 2 - Oilers re-sign UFA Jason Strudwick to a 1-year contract
July 2 - Oilers bring back UFA tough guy Steve MacIntyre on a 1-year contract
July 3 - Oilers sign former AHL MVP UFA Alexandre Giroux to a 1-year contract
July 5 - Oilers sign Number 1 Pick Taylor Hall to a 3-year Entry Level Contract
July 7 - Oilers UFA Ryan Stone signs with the Calgary Flames
July 7 - Oilers sign UFA Brad Moran to a 1-year contract
July 9 - Oilers sign UFA Ben Ondrus to a 1-year contract
July 9 - Oilers UFA Colin McDonald signs an AHL contract with the Oklahoma City Barons
July 13 - Oilers re-sign RFA Devan Dubnyk to a 2-year contract
July 13 - Oilers sign UFA Shawn Belle to a 1-year contract
July 14 - Oilers re-sign RFA J.-F. Jacques to a 1-year contract
July 15 - Oilers re-sign RFA Theo Peckham to a 1-year contract
July 16 - Oilers UFA Slava Trukhno signs with KHL's Novosibirsk
July 16 - Oilers sign UFA Gregory Stewart to a 1-year contract
July 16 - Oilers re-sign RFA Ryan O'Marra to a 1-year contract
July 23 - Oilers UFA Marc-Antoine Pouliot signs with the Tampa Bay Lightning
July 27 - Oilers re-sign RFA Gilbert Brule to a 2-year contract
July 31 - Oilers re-sign RFA Jeff Deslauriers to a 1-year contract
August 6 - Oilers sign UFA Martin Gerber to a 1-year contract
August 9 - Oilers re-sign RFA Liam Reddox to a 1-year contract
August 11 - Oilers UFA Dean Arsene signs with the St. Louis Blues
August 18 - Oilers UFA Fernando Pisani signs with the Chicago Blackhawks

Oilers UFA's unsigned: 6 (Mike Comrie, Josef Hrabal, Aaron Johnson, Matt Nickerson, Geoff Paukovich, Ryan Potulny)
Oilers RFA's unsigned: 2 (Andrew Cogliano, Sam Gagner)

If you look at last years roster, and then this years roster, you will notice that there are huge changes. It's a new era in Oil Country folks. We've finally gotten ridden of the small, inconsistent players that we've had for the better part of four seasons. Here are my projected lines for this year:

Forwards

Penner - Gagner - Hemsky
Hall - Eberle - Brule
Paajarvi - Horcoff - Cogliano
Jones - Fraser - Stortini/Jacques/MacIntyre
Scratches: the two tough guys that aren't in the lineup

Defensemen

Whitney - Gilbert
Smid (Souray*) - Foster
Vandermeer - Strudwick
Scratches: Chorney
Note: Souray will have to accept the fact that no one wants his contract, and will play in Smid's spot if so, leaving Strudwick the odd man out.

I will hold off on fully evaluating the roster until the final roster is announced after pre-season, but I can promise this, there's something special going on here in Edmonton.

-Nick "Oilers Fan" Walker

(As posted on NHLTALK202.com)

Friday, August 20, 2010

Days of Summer

We're less than a month from training camp, I'm completely bored without any hockey or Oiler talk and there are two significant names that have yet to be signed by our Oilers: Cogliano and Gagner. They're restricted free agents and we've waited all summer for their signings. We still wait. It's actually been very quiet on the Gagner front from both sides. I'm confident it will get done but it is interesting that it's taking so long. My guess is they're arguing over term?

Staples mentioned the Capitals were interested in either our Souray (used to be known as Big Sexy) or the Canucks' Bieksa. The Oilers have been trying to trade or give-away Souray all summer. I'm a bit surprised by this but if the Oilers can dump him for a bag of pucks, I'd be quite happy. And once again, Cogliano's name is being thrown in the mix as well. His name gets added to every single trade rumor.

And one last shout out to Pisani who signed with the Hawks. He will forever be remembered in Edmonton for his play during the spring of 2006. One of my favorite moments, game 5 of the finals and a beautiful overtime goal.

Thursday, August 19, 2010

OKC Barons on CBC


The AHL and the CBC announced today a one-year agreement to broadcast 10 AHL games this season. The ten games will feature all Canadian NHL affiliated teams. The Oklahoma City Barons will be shown in the second featured game on Oct 24th as they take on the Hamilton Bulldogs at Noon Central/11 Mountain. So finally, the Barons have an announced game with a set date and opponent. Now if we can just get someone in the OKC area to broadcast the game as well, we'll be set.

AHL on CBC 2010-11 Broadcast Schedule
Schedule subject to change...
All games also available live and on-demand on CBCSports.ca
Sunday, Oct. 17 – Binghamton at Toronto, 1:00 ET
Sunday, Oct. 24 – Oklahoma City at Hamilton, 1:00 ET
Sunday, Nov. 21 – Hamilton at Toronto, 1:00 ET
Sunday, Dec. 12 – Toronto at Hamilton, 1:00 ET
Sunday, Jan. 16 – Toronto at Abbotsford, 2:00 ET
Sunday, Jan. 23 – Abbotsford at Manitoba, 1:00 ET
Sunday, Feb. 27 – Manitoba at Toronto, 1:00 ET
Sunday, Mar. 6 – Hamilton at Toronto, 1:00 ET
Sunday, Mar. 27 – Abbotsford at Manitoba, 1:00 ET
Sunday, Apr. 3 – Manitoba at Toronto, 1:00 ET

-Written by Eric Rodgers-

The Burnt's Were On Vacation!

FOR SOME STRANGE REASON THIS NEVER POSTED!!!! BUT I'M BACK NOW!


This is it folks, I'm outta here!

I bought a new van and I'm off for 7 days to the wonderful West Kootenays in British Columbia with the family. Our parents all still live there so we are taking the kids and we are going home.

No posts or hanging around here for me. I promised the wife that I would for real "take a break" from OilersJambalaya.com. I still don't know what I'm going to do for 7 days. Probably drink. A lot.

Oh... I will have my phone so if anyone wants to call me, I have the time to talk. (no, I'm not posting my number.) I'll also be hanging around twitter so I'm not dead totally to the world. ;)

Don't worry... your in good hands with Eric and Scott, I'm sure they won't burn the place down. Will they?

I'll be back by Wednesday and I'll keep y'all posted!

-Written by Smokin' Ray-

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

OKC Barons and the Preseason?


Earlier today the San Antonio Rampage and the Houston Aeros both announced their preseason schedule. Besides announcing that they'll be playing each other once, the Rampage announced that they'll be playing the Texas Stars twice while the Aeros will play the Stars once, giving the Stars three preseason dates. After going through the preseason schedule announcements so far of the rest of AHL, the average amount of games teams have announced is 2 or 3. The Hartford Wolf Pack took the extreme of 5 games, including going with a 3 games in 3 nights stretch.

So where does that leave the Barons? The Rampage and Stars have their 3 games. I'm going to doubt that Houston's going to take a third game if they didn't include it with their earlier announcement. Peoria, Rockford, and Chicago have yet to announce their preseason schedules, but would they want to travel the 11+ hour drive here for a preseason game? Or will the Barons take a road trip to play in Illinois and leave the OKC fans high and dry? Unless the Stars are going to take on a 4th(maybe 5th?) game, or the Barons and one of the Illinois teams decide to do a home and home, I'm having some serious doubts of seeing a home preseason game this year.

-Written by Eric Rodgers-

Update: The Texas Stars announced that they will be playing the Barons on Oct 2nd in Cedar Park, taking place of one of their games with the Rampage. The Rampage's release now shows them playing only 2 games, one against the Stars and the other against the Aeros.

Pisani heads to Chicago

Since Ray's still on vacation, I figured I'd post this for him. And since I'm a 'Hawks fan, it pertains to me too. Per TSN's Ryan Rishaug, Fernando Pisani has signed a 1-year deal with the Chicago Blackhawks worth $500k. Seems like it should be a good signing for the 'Hawks if Pisani's able to stay healthy. Does it make up for Buff and Ladd being traded away? No, but I'll take it.

-Written by Eric Rodgers-

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

OJ is # 6

As many have read that Smokin' Ray is off on vacation at the moment. So I thought I would post about an achievement that I consider pretty prestigious. That OilersJambalaya came in at #6 on Dave Staples Top 35 Oilogosphere blogs. Smokin' Ray does a fantastic job keeping things fresh, and finding stuff to talk about here on OJ. And he does the same talking about the Barons over on OilFieldHockey.com. And a big thanks to all the readers that come here(and to OFH too). Also a big thanks to Smokin' Ray for teaming with OFH, cause it's been one whale of a ride. And the fun is just about begin with hockey season right around the corner!

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Oilers announce Young Stars Roster

From the Oilers Website:


Oilers announce Young Stars tournament roster
Tickets go on sale Monday, August 16
Thursday, 12.08.2010 / 5:00 PM / Rookie Camp
By Edmonton Oilers Press Release

General Manager Steve Tambellini announced today the Edmonton Oilers roster for the upcoming Vancouver Canucks Young Stars Tournament taking place from September 12-16 at the South Okanagan Events Centre in Penticton, British Columbia.

The Oilers will head to Penticton led by first round draft choices Taylor Hall (1st overall in 2010), Magnus Paajarvi (10th overall in 2009) and Jordan Eberle (22nd overall in 2008).

The eight-game tournament will feature players from the Oilers, Anaheim Ducks, Calgary Flames, San Jose Sharks and Vancouver Canucks. A total of 16 NHL first round draft picks, seven players that appeared in the Final of the 2010 World Junior Championships, and the 2009 and 2010 CHL Players-of-the-Year are all scheduled to play for their respective teams. Notable prospects from the other four teams participating include Mikael Backlund (CGY), Emerson Etem (ANA), Cam Fowler (ANA), Cody Hodgson (VAN), Kyle Palmieri (ANA), Nick Petrecki (SJ), Jordan Schroeder (VAN) and Mitch Wahl (CGY).

For more information on the tournament, visit www.canucks.com/youngstars

Young Stars Rosters:

* Anaheim
* Calgary
* Edmonton
* San Jose
* Vancouver

Also today, The Vancouver Canucks announced single game tickets and day passes (access to all games on the given day) for the tournament will go on sale Monday, August 16 at 10:00am Pacific Time.

Single game tickets will be available for $12, or day passes (access to all games on the given day) will be available for $20, beginning Monday, August 16. A special 2-for-1 offer will take place on September 16 with all tickets for the game between the Flames and Canucks being sold for just $12 per pair. Limited tournament packages, which include a ticket to each of the eight games, will be available for purchase starting at $66, until Monday, August 16 at 10:00am PDT. Tournament ticket packages and single game tickets are available for purchase online at www.valleyfirstTIX.com, by phone at 1-877-763-2849 or in person at the South Okanagan Events Centre box office. Game dates, times and opponents are subject to change.

VANCOUVER CANUCKS YOUNG STARS TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

GAME
TEAMS DATE
TIME*
Game 1 Vancouver vs. Edmonton Sept. 12 5:00pm
Game 2 San Jose vs. Anaheim Sept. 12 8:30pm
Game 3 Anaheim vs. Calgary Sept. 13 5:00pm
Game 4 San Jose vs. Vancouver Sept. 13 8:30pm
Game 5 Calgary vs. Edmonton Sept. 14 8:30pm
Game 6 Anaheim vs. Vancouver Sept. 15 5:00pm
Game 7 Edmonton vs. San Jose Sept. 15 8:30pm
Game 8 Calgary vs. Vancouver Sept. 16 1:00pm

*Game dates, times and opponents subject to change. Times are Mountain.
All Oilers games will be streamed live on edmontonoilers.com

Edmonton Oilers 2010 Young Stars Roster (09-10 stats)

Forwards (16)

Cameron Abney
Philippe Cornet
Drew Czerwonka
Jordan Eberle
Taylor Hall
Curtis Hamilton
Teemu Hartikainen
Milan Kytnar
James Livingston
Ryan Martindale
Magnus Paajarvi
Kristians Pelss
Tyler Pitlick
Chase Schaber
Mike Thomas
Chris Vande Velde

Defencemen
Jordan Bendfeld
Jeremie Blain
Brandon Davidson
Dallas Ehrhardt
Martin Marincin
Johan Motin
Jeff Petry
Alex Plante
Dominik Schlumpf
Nolan Toigo

Goalies
Tyler Bunz
Bryan Pitton
Olivier Roy
OilFieldHockey.com and OilersJambalaya.com will be holding a week long Tweetcast of the Tournament. If you are going and can tweet from the tournament. We will include your tweets and pics from the tournament on our Tweetcast. Please email or tweet us here at OilFieldHockey.com and OilersJambalaya.com with your information.

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Stockton Thunder Add Player / #StkThunder

THUNDERVISION: Matt Thomas Comments on Jordan Foreman Signing


Tuesday, August 10, 2010

It's True! No More Oilers PPV's!


Yes folks, there will never be another PPV game for at least 10 years. Wooo!

Much like we had hoped earlier, the Oilers and the Flames have both reached a deal with Rogers Sportsnet to carry at least 58 Oilers and 58 Flames games every year for the next 10 years. That's a sweet deal to me.

I guess there will be one untelevised game on Feb. 5/11. The Oilers game in Columbus conflicts with a CBC Maple Leafs broadcast. Go figure!

But whatever, 81 games on the tube is pretty awesome no matter how you look at it.

Good bye stupid $14.95 money wasters, hello VERY CHEAP $2.99 a month SportsnetOne.

Life just got better....

-Written by Smokin' Ray-

Monday, August 9, 2010

Where Will You Be? Campaign Launched / #StkThunder


08/09/2010 11:43 AM - New campaign for sixth season in the Central Valley unveiled for 2010-11

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STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, a two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," announced its 2010-11 hockey season will be themed, "WHERE WILL YOU BE?" The new season's marketing campaign aims to spotlight the overall hockey and entertainment experience presented to the fans through game night promotions, special events, community activities and charitable efforts.

The Thunder has averaged over 6,000 fans per game through the turnstiles at Stockton Arena for five consecutive seasons (2005-present) and two years ago, became the first team in the ECHL to lead the league in attendance for four straight seasons since the Florida Everblades accomplished the feat for five straight years (2000-05).

"The concept is based on the individual fan enjoying the shared experience of a Thunder game," said Thunder vice president of marketing Marlena Aranda. "We appreciate and want to recognize the fact that these moments at Thunder games create life long memories for so many."
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The Thunder has recorded 14 sellouts at the 9,737-seat Stockton Arena since entering the league in 2005-06. Last year, a Thunder record of $656,977 was donated in cash, tickets, memorabilia and other items to charity in 2009-10, toppling its charitable record of over $550,000 set in 2008-09.

The official season artwork and theme was released with a vibrant design adorned in the Thunder's black, gold and white colors. The season's theme will feature Thunder fans, die-hard and casual, in anticipation and celebration of highlights of the Thunder experience that have become a staple attraction: electrifying hockey on the ice and thrilling entertainment.

The artwork to accompany the theme was designed by Donnie Conner in the Thunder marketing department and will be featured prominently with Thunder publications, advertising and merchandise throughout the season. Special events that have become a signature for premier hockey entertainment in the Central Valley will be synergized with the theme, including "Thunder Goes Pink," "Easy Being Green" and more.

Details on 2010-11 FanFest, the prominent event to help launch the season that invites fans to view a Thunder practice, pick up season tickets and participate in themed activities around Stockton Arena, will be announced soon.

OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION
Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 15, when the Thunder opens the 2010-11 regular season at home against the Ontario Reign, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena. Details on Thunder 2010 training camp information will be announced soon.

The Thunder are freezing Season Ticket prices for the 2010-11 season, which are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 or by visiting http://www.stocktonthunder.com/. Partial-season Mini Plans are also available now and information on individual tickets will be announced soon.

The proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers and the San Jose Sharks of the National Hockey League, the Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the fifth consecutive season in 2009-10. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com//.

-Written by Stockton Thunder-

Saturday, August 7, 2010

Show Me The Money / OKC Barons Edition

Today we look at the amount of projected dollars the Edmonton Oilers/OKC Barons will spend this year on Barons players. Let me tell you this, if I am correct, this is going to be a very expensive team.

Read no further if you are squeamish to large numbers.

PRODIGAL HOCKEY OWNER: Bob Funk Jr.
AFFILIATE TEAM: Edmonton Oilers
GENERAL MANAGER: Bill Scott
ASSISTANT GM: ????
HEAD COACH: Todd Nelson
ASSISTANT COACH: Gerry Fleming
TRAINER: Brandon Dionne
EQUIPMENT MANAGER: ????
MASCOT NAME: Derrick


WEBSITE: http://www.okcbarons.com/
TWITTER: www.twitter.com/okcbaronshockey
FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/okcbarons

PROJECTED OKC BARONS ROSTER*

*Players subject to change. All dollar figures below are 2010-11 AHL dollars only.

Go to CapGeek.com for the full list NHL contracts.

FORWARDS:


C - Ryan O'Marra ($70,000)
C - Chris Vande Velde ($62,500)
C - Brad Moran ($225,000)
C - Teemu Hartikainen ($65,000)
C - Milan Kytnar ($55,000)

LW - Linus Omark ($65,000)
LW - Alexandre Giroux ($500,000)
LW - Gregory Stewart ($105,000)
LW- Phillipe Cornet ($60,000)
LW - Matt Marquardt ($62,500)

RW - Magnus Paajarvi/Jordan Eberle** (MPS $67,500 / JE $65,000)
RW - Colin MacDonald (??? will update)
RW - Ben Ondrus ($130,000)
RW - Toni Rajala ($55,000)

**(Projecting that one of the two will be in OKC)

DEFENCEMEN:

Shawn Belle ($150,000)
Richard Petoit ($105,000)
Jake Taylor (??? will update)
Alex Plante ($65,000)
Jeff Petry ($62,500)
Johan Motin ($55,000)
Jordan Bendfeld ($60,000)
Taylor Chorney ($62,500)
Theo Peckham ($65,000)

GOALIES:

Martin Gerber ($200,000)
Jeff Deslauriers ($1,050,000 if he clears waivers)
Devan Dubnyk ($800,000 if he clears waivers)
Bryan Pitton ($55,000)

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

So there we have it. Now let's add up some numbers.

Forwards Total not including MPS, Eberle & MacDonald: $1,455,000

Defence Total not including Jake Taylor & Theo Peckham: $560,000

Goalie Total not including Deslauriers & Dubnyk: $255,000

OKC BARONS GRAND TOTAL: $2,270,000 AHL dollars

Now add Deslauriers or Dubnyk to that number. WOW! That's some big bucks.

This team better be a Calder Cup contender, if not the champs.

-Written and Updated by Smokin' Ray-

Friday, August 6, 2010

Gerber signs two way deal with Oilers

From the Oilers' Website:

General Manager Steve Tambellini announced today the Edmonton Oilers have agreed to terms with goaltender Martin Gerber on a one-year contract.Gerber, 35, played last year with Altant Moscow of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). In 30 appearances he went 15-6-6 with a 2.19 GAA and .914 save percentage.

Gerber, who is from Burgdorf, Switzerland, was originally drafted 232nd overall by the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim. In two seasons with the Ducks he played in 54 games going 26-21-5 before being dealt to the Carolina Hurricanes where he led the Canes to to a division championship. In 60 games Gerber posted a 38-14-6 record, 2.78 GAA and .906 save percentage.

The 5'11", 195 lbs veteran also played with the Ottawa Senators and Toronto Maple Leafs before heading to the KHL. In 226 games Gerber has a 110-78-21 record, 2.65 GAA and .910 save percentage.

Gerber also has some international experience and split the goaltending duties with David Aebischer for Team Switzerland in the 2006 Winter Olympics.

Edmonton Oilers hockey is presented in part by the Rexall Family of Pharmacies, Molson Canadian, ATB Financial, TELUS, Cenovus Energy and Ford.

Contract Details: From @RealKyper on Twitter: Oilers sign Martin Gerber 1 year / 2-way contract. 500/200 guaranteed in minors. Oilers have him pegged as a 3/4 goalie in system.

Oilers' name Bill Scott as Barons' GM

Per the Barons' Website:

BILL SCOTT NAMED GM OF BARONS
(by Josh Evans, OKC Barons)

Edmonton Oilers general manager Steve Tambellini today named Bill Scott as the general manager for the Oklahoma City Barons.

Scott’s role will be management of the Barons hockey operations department on a day-to-day basis. In addition, he will also serve as a scout for the Oilers organization. He will work with the Barons’ coaching staff of Todd Nelson and Gerry Fleming to communicate the progress of the Oilers prospects in Oklahoma City.

“We feel we have secured one of the bright young minds in the AHL with Bill,” said Tambellini. “He has several years of experience in hockey operations with the AHL and ECHL and will be an important part of our management team moving forward.”

Prior to his appointment as general manager of the Barons, Scott acted as the Director of Hockey Operations for the American Hockey League for four seasons. His duties with the AHL included creation the league schedule, assisting in determining player fines and suspensions, supervised regular season and playoff games and interpreted by-laws and the Collective Bargaining Agreement for member teams.

“The Barons are pleased with the Oilers selection for this position,” said Prodigal LLC owner Bob Funk Jr. “His understanding what the Oilers are positioning themselves for will ultimately assist all of us in our success here.”

The native of Unionville, Ontario graduated from Michigan State University in 2003 with a Bachelors degree in Business Management. He worked as the student manager with the Spartans in the season they hosted The Cold War (first outdoor game) and their run to the Frozen Four in 2001. He got his start in hockey as an intern in the Nashville Predators hockey operations department before moving to the ECHL as manager of hockey operations for three seasons.

In operation since 1936, the AHL continues to serve as the top development league for the players, coaches, managers, executives and broadcasters of all 30 National Hockey League teams. More than 85 percent of today’s NHL players are American Hockey League graduates, and for the ninth year in a row, more than 6 million fans attended AHL games across North America.

Just 64 days remain until the Barons season opener October 9 at the newly renovated Cox Convention Center. Season tickets and mini packs are available by calling 232-GOAL (4625).

Ben Laing - Equipment Manager of the Year / #StkThunder


08/05/2010 3:53 PM - Rochester, N.Y. native earns award to conclude second season as a professional

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STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, a two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," announced in conjunction with the ECHL that Thunder head equipment manager Ben Laing has been named recipient of the ECHL "Equipment Manager of the Year" award, presented by Reebok Hockey.

The winner is determined in a vote of the league's equipment managers. As recognition of the yearly award, Laing will receive a pair of 11K skates from Reebok Hockey.

"Benny is well deserving of the award and we couldn't be more proud of him," said Thunder head coach Matt Thomas. "He is a tireless worker, handles himself as a true professional and has done a tremendous job on my staff over the last two seasons. The feedback from our players indicates respect for his efforts and it shows how much it makes a difference in our dressing room culture."
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Ben Laing helps goaltender Bryan Pitton with a piece of equipment during overtime of Game 3 of the 2010 National Conference Finals. (photo by George Steckler)

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Laing completed his second season in the ECHL and first in Stockton this year after serving as equipment manager for Fresno in 2008-09. In addition to handling day-to-day equipment duties for the club, Laing handled maintenance and inventory preservation of team supplies while assisting the hockey operations department with administrative duties and supervision of Thunder game day equipment staff.

A Rochester, N.Y. native, Laing previously spent eight years in the hockey retail industry with Locker Room Sports served as assistant coach for his alma mater, Monroe (N.Y.) Community College in 2003-04. Previously, he spent two seasons (2001-03) in the program as a defenseman.

ECHL Equipment Manager of the Year
2009-10 Ben Laing, Stockton Thunder
2008-09 Pat Noecker, Reading Royals
2007-08 Pat Noecker, Reading Royals
2005-06 Chris Burke, Fresno Falcons
2004-05 John Jennings, Florida Everblades
Russ Holden, Reading Royals
2003-04 John Krouse, Pensacola Ice Pilots
2002-03 Tom Severance, Charlotte Checkers

OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION
Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 15, when the Thunder opens the 2010-11 regular season at home against the Ontario Reign, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena. Details on Thunder 2010 training camp information will be announced soon.

The Thunder are freezing Season Ticket prices for the 2010-11 season, which are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 or by visiting http://www.stocktonthunder.com/. Partial-season Mini Plans are also available now and information on individual tickets will be announced soon.

The proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers and the San Jose Sharks of the National Hockey League, the Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the fifth consecutive season in 2009-10. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

-Written by the Stockton Thunder-

*reprinted by OilersJambalaya.com with permission from the Stockton Thunder Hockey Club*

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Thunder Signs Rookie Center Dan Bartlett / #StkThunder


08/05/2010 10:05 AM - Highly skilled, versatile Princeton product is fifth player to sign in Stockton

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MORE: DAN BARTLETT CAREER STATISTICS
VIDEO: Matt Thomas discusses the signing of Dan Bartlett



STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers and San Jose Sharks, and head coach Matt Thomas announced today that the team has signed free agent rookie center Dan Bartlett (BART-let). Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"What jumps out to me about Dan is we get another exciting player with top college credentials who is ready to take the next step in his developing game," said Thomas. "He comes from a great college program at Princeton University with the reputation of producing impact players with character I've had the honor of coaching like Daryl Marcoux, Kyle Hagel and Dustin Sproat. He's one of the youngest, dynamic, ‘one-on-one' players available on the free agent market and has the ability to bring fans out of their seats with his skill level."
Dan Bartlett led Princeton
 in scoring during his
last two seasons.
(photo by Beverly Schaefer)

Bartlett, 24, is the second newcomer to the Thunder roster during the offseason, joining Jordan Cyr, who enters the pro game after leading his college program in scoring for the last two straight seasons.

Bartlett enjoyed a career-high 29 points (16g-13a) and tied a career-high with 16 goals as a 2009-10 senior last season for Princeton, earning second-team All-Ivy honors and the Blackwell Award for the largest contributions in the club's "play, sportsmanship and influence."

The 5-foot-10, 185-pound forward led the Eastern College Athletic Conference tournament in scoring as a 2008-09 junior and was named to the ECAC All-Tournament team.

A native of Portland, Maine, he will be reunited with Thunder defenseman Daryl Marcoux, after the two were teammates during Bartlett's 2006-07 freshman season. He also guided the club to an NCAA Frozen Four tournament appearance as a junior.

"Daryl was very helpful in my decision making process," said Bartlett. "I was excited to hear his endorsement on how great the Thunder organization is, on and off the ice and how exciting it is to be part of it and the surrounding community in Stockton this next season. I'm hoping to contribute offensively to the best of my abilities, but I'm also proud of how my defensive game has improved. I feel all of that will be a good fit into Coach Thomas' intense, up-tempo playing style."

Bartlett totaled 79 points (42g-37a) in 119 career games with the Tigers, spanning four seasons (2007-10).

The contract signing marks the fifth player to sign with the Thunder, joining Marcoux, captain and center Craig Valette, left wing Jordan Cyr and defenseman Steve Vanoosten.

OPENING NIGHT AND TICKET INFORMATION
Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 15, when the Thunder opens the 2010-11 regular season at home against the Ontario Reign, starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena.

The Thunder are freezing Season Ticket Prices for the 2010-11 season, which are on sale now can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 or by visiting http://www.stocktonthunder.com/. Thunder Season Ticket Holders enjoy the highest-demanded seating locations in Stockton Arena, preferred parking options, benefits including admission to Season Ticket Holder-only events, discount opportunities on Thunder merchandise, a free e-newsletter, an exclusive gift, admission to the first two rounds of the Kelly Cup Playoffs and more. Information on individual and group tickets will be announced soon.

A two-time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," Thunder was voted "Best Local Sports Team" by readers of the San Joaquin Magazine, led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the fifth consecutive season in 2009-10. Season Tickets and mini-plans for 2010-11 are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

-Written by StocktonThunder.com-

*reprinted by OilersJambalaya.com with permission from the Stockton Thunder Hockey Club*

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Oilers Jambalaya is in no way, shape or form associated with the Edmonton Oilers or the Bakersfield Condors. This is a fans blog for fans. We happen to love those teams, so we write about them.