NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TX – For the first time this season Brahma fans will get a chance to check out the Odessa Jackalopes as Lone Star kicks off the home portion of their 2016 schedule on Friday night.
THE JACKALOPES: Currently fourth in the NAHL South, the “Jacks” have the fewest games played in the league at just 28. While they have games and time to try and make a playoff push, the team has just 26 points, which sets them at a big disadvantage.
Odessa has struggled away from home, currently holding a record of 3-6-1 in 10 games (another fewest in the league).
Forward Hampus Sjodahl leads the team in points with 27. At nearly a consistent point per game, the Swede has 20 points in his last 18 games.
Fans may recognize some familiar faces in road sweaters this weekend as both Eric Carreras and Gunner Rivers make their return to NYTEX Sports Centre. Carreras spent 34 games with the Brahmas last season before being dealt to the Jacks. Rivers opened camp and pre-season with the North Richland Hills gang but was shipped westward after losing the battle for the second spot to now former Brahma Darion Hanson.
THE BRAHMAS: It’s become evident the team is making a push for it all this season. Recent acquisitions Tyler Drevitch and Johan Lundgren will make their home debut on Friday and the vibe is that the Wildfong and Potter tandem may be far from done.
For now, the team will look to build off of their success at home and pick up some valuable points. The Topeka RoadRunners are just two points behind the Brahmas so in order to gain some ground wins this weekend are crucial. Topeka is off this weekend but the team in first place is not. Wichita Falls is set for a two game series against Corpus Christi, a team whom the ‘Cats have had no trouble with thus far this season.
The blue line has been impressive on the offensive side of things with Cam Clarke continuing to pave the way. The Ferris State commit has five points in his last five games but immediately behind him is Bud Madej with four. Brandon Estes, Sean Giles and Dalton Skelly all have three each.
In net, Conor O’Brien has returned to the team following a brief stint with the Youngstown Phantoms of the USHL. Corbin Kaczperski is 5-0-0 in his last five starts and hopes to remain hot this weekend.
TICKETS / PROMOTIONS: Friday is $1 Dr. Pepper Night so come thirsty! Saturday, lace up your boogie shoes because it’s 70’s Night! Tickets are still available by calling 817-336-4ICE, atop your screen under the tickets tab, or by swinging by the NYTEX Sports Centre box office.