Great Lakes Junior C Playoff Preview

The Great Lakes Junior C playoffs are upon us with several intriguing match ups. Here is a break down of the four playoff series.

Essex 73s (1) vs. Alvinston Flyers (8)

David versus Goliath. Alvinston fought hard in the team’s four meetings this year, even winning their first game against the 73s. Essex however, is not the same team as they were in late October when Alvinston slipped by them in OT. Essex’s depth is hard to contend with, as their entire roster hit double digits in points, and although he has his retractors, Trevor Wheaton, when he is tested is the league’s premiere goalie. Prediction: Essex in 4.

Blenheim Blades (2) vs. Dresden Kings (7)

We hate seeing one Chatham-Kent team knocked out in round one, but we love seeing one advance. This is an uneven match up considering the Blades have one of the most dynamic offenses in the league, and Dresden has struggled to put a team of defencemen of any sort together until recent weeks. With Marlatt, Horvath, Hopkins, Ritchie, Wood, Clark et al, the Blades offense is potent. The Kings themselves, led by the likes of Dillon Liberty and Kyle Dawson have the offense to compete, but as mentioned before, have struggled in their own end all year. The Kings however, took as many points from the Blades as any team this season, and will put up a fight. Prediction: Blenheim in 5.

Amherstburg Admirals (3) vs. Wheatley Sharks (6)

Coming in as the underdog, you have to love when you can beat your playoff opponent 4-1 on the final night of the season. That’s exactly what Wheatley did. Wheatley also won 7 of their final 8 games, including against 3 of the top 4 teams. Hope you brought your work boots Amherstburg, if you want the win, the pesky Sharks are going to make you work for it. Brett Bowman is also the league’s leading scorer, and he’ll need to carry Wheatley. If nothing else, Wheatley will help to wear down the Admirals for their second round opponent. Prediction: Amherstburg in 7.

Mooretown Flags (4) vs. Lakeshore Canadians (5)

You’d be hard pressed to find a more surprising team than the Mooretown Flags this season. They’re not loaded with star power, but they’re well coached and disciplined. Plus, they have one of the best goalies in the league in Brandon Johnson. They’re coming up against a very experience Lakeshore organization, and will need to maintain their poise, despite their inexperience, to avoid the “upset.” Prediction: Mooretown in 7.