2014 Kitchener Rangers Roster: A Deep Dive into the Season
The 2014 Kitchener Rangers roster was a blend of veteran leadership and promising youth, setting the stage for an exciting season in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). This article provides an in-depth look at the team's composition, notable players, and key statistics from that year.
Roster Composition
The 2014 Rangers roster was a mix of 17 forwards, eight defensemen, and three goaltenders, totaling 28 players. The team was led by a core of experienced players, including captain Matt Puempel and alternate captains Ben Thomson and Radek Faksa. The roster also featured several promising rookies, such as Connor Bunnaman and Adam Mascherin, who would go on to make significant contributions to the team's success.
Notable Players
- Matt Puempel - The team captain and leading scorer, Puempel tallied 34 goals and 62 points in 59 games before being traded to the Kingston Frontenacs. His leadership and offensive prowess were crucial to the Rangers' success.
- Radek Faksa - A key part of the Rangers' offense, Faksa scored 28 goals and 55 points in 60 games. He was also a vital presence on the team's penalty kill.
- Connor Bunnaman - A rookie in 2014, Bunnaman quickly established himself as a reliable two-way forward. He scored 16 goals and 31 points in 62 games, showcasing his potential as a future leader for the Rangers.
Goaltending Tandem
The Rangers' goaltending duo of Frank Corrado and Matthew Greenfield provided a solid foundation for the team's defense. Corrado, a veteran of the OHL, started in 36 games, posting a .907 save percentage and 3.05 goals-against average. Greenfield, in his rookie season, appeared in 28 games, recording a .898 save percentage and 3.21 goals-against average.
Team Statistics
| Category | Regular Season | Playoffs |
|---|---|---|
| Games Played | 68 | 14 |
| Wins | 35 | 7 |
| Losses | 26 | 7 |
| OT Losses | 7 | 0 |
| Points | 77 | 14 |
| Goals For | 224 | 52 |
| Goals Against | 214 | 57 |
Season Recap
The 2014 Kitchener Rangers finished the regular season with a record of 35-26-7, good for 77 points and fourth place in the Western Conference. They qualified for the playoffs, where they faced the London Knights in the first round. Despite a valiant effort, the Rangers fell short, losing the series 4-3.
The 2014 Kitchener Rangers roster was a testament to the team's ability to blend experience and youth, creating a competitive and exciting hockey team. While the season ended in disappointment, the foundation laid by this roster set the stage for future success in the OHL.
