NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TX — For the first time since the season opener, the Brahmas and the Mudbugs go head-to-head in the NAHL South’s marquee matchup.
The Mudbugs were red-hot to start the season after a loss to the Brahmas in the first game of the year, while the Brahmas went on an early skid.
Since then, though, the Brahmas have settled into a rhythm and the Mudbugs have cooled off to a still-respectable but more reasonable pace, leaving the two teams battling for the top spot in the NAHL South.
Last season, the Brahmas and Mudbugs finished first and second in the division respectively, so this battle for first place is a familiar one for both teams.
The Brahmas have won eight of their last ten games, so they’ll be looking to stay hot this week. The departure of defenseman Ryan Orgel is a key point these next few games as the Brahmas will need to readjust without one of their top offensive threats in the lineup.
Orgel, who left early this week to join the University of Denver Pioneers, had been extremely effective on the power play and came up with some big game-tying and game-winning goals during his short but productive tenure with the Brahmas.
Luckily, the offense has been coming from avenues as well. Forward Julian Biondo is still producing at a point-per-game clip with 23 points in 22 games and is currently on a five-game point streak.
On the blue line, Connor Stuart has been stepping up quite a bit with six points in his last five games. He’ll need to continue to do so, especially with Orgel gone.
For their part, the Mudbugs have won six of their last ten, but that span includes a grueling Alaska road trip.
Shreveport’s team has been good all year, and newly-committed forward Gueorgui Feduolov (Mercyhurst) has been very good since his return to the Mudbugs. Cameron Cook has also had a hot hand, with a four-game point streak — including two goals and an assist in his last game.
Tonight’s game promises to be an entertaining one, as both the Brahmas and Mudbugs know exactly what is at stake.
Puck drop tonight at the NYTEX Sports Centre is earlier than normal, as we’ll have a 7:05 start time. The game will be followed by a skate with the players, so make sure to stick around for that! Music during tonight’s game and the postgame skate will be provided by the one and only DJ EJ. Make sure to follow along by keeping an eye on our Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat accounts!
Remember, our online special is still active this week. Use promo code “AMERICAN” for $5 tickets for the remainder of the month!