Kitchener Rangers 2016 Roster: A Deep Dive into the Season's Lineup
The Kitchener Rangers, a prominent junior ice hockey team based in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, had an exciting 2016 season with a roster filled with promising young talent. This article provides an in-depth look at the Kitchener Rangers 2016 roster, highlighting key players, their positions, and notable performances throughout the season.
Understanding the 2016 Roster Structure
The Kitchener Rangers 2016 roster comprised 25 players, including 18 skaters and 7 goaltenders. The team was divided into forwards, defensemen, and goalies, each playing a crucial role in the team's overall performance. Here's a breakdown of the roster structure:
- Forwards: 12 players
- Defensemen: 6 players
- Goaltenders: 7 players
Notable Forwards in the 2016 Roster
The 2016 Kitchener Rangers forward line was led by Adam Mascherin, a skilled winger who was drafted by the Florida Panthers in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. Mascherin led the team in scoring with 86 points (35 goals, 51 assists) in 63 games played. Other notable forwards included Connor Bunnaman, who contributed 65 points (32 goals, 33 assists) and was drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers in 2016, and Adam Liska, who tallied 57 points (27 goals, 30 assists).
Defensive Core and Goaltending Duo
The Kitchener Rangers 2016 roster featured a solid defensive core, with Logan Stanley leading the way. Stanley, a towering defenseman standing at 6'7", was drafted by the Winnipeg Jets in 2016. He contributed 25 points (6 goals, 19 assists) and provided a physical presence on the backend. Other notable defensemen included Douglas Blaisdell and Connor Hall, who both chipped in with 20 or more points.
In net, the Rangers had a strong duo in Luke Opilka and Dawson Carty. Opilka, a 2016 NHL draft pick by the St. Louis Blues, appeared in 38 games, posting a .898 save percentage and 3.31 goals-against average. Carty, meanwhile, played in 27 games, recording a .895 save percentage and 3.40 goals-against average.
2016 Season Recap and Notable Performances
The Kitchener Rangers 2016 season saw the team finish with a record of 33-28-5-2, good for 73 points and a fourth-place finish in the Midwest Division of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). The Rangers made it to the playoffs but were ultimately eliminated in the first round by the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds.
Despite the early playoff exit, the 2016 Kitchener Rangers roster featured several standout performances. Adam Mascherin's 86-point campaign earned him a spot on the OHL's Second All-Star Team. Logan Stanley's strong play throughout the season also earned him recognition, as he was named to the OHL's Third All-Star Team. Additionally, goaltender Luke Opilka was named to the OHL's All-Rookie Team for his impressive first season in the league.
The Future of the Kitchener Rangers
The 2016 Kitchener Rangers roster was filled with young, talented players who have since moved on to professional hockey or continue to develop within the OHL. Adam Mascherin, Connor Bunnaman, and Logan Stanley have all made their mark in the professional ranks, while other players from the 2016 roster continue to hone their skills and work towards their ultimate goal of playing in the NHL.
The Kitchener Rangers organization has a rich history of developing young talent and providing them with an opportunity to showcase their skills on a national stage. The 2016 roster was no exception, as it featured several players who have gone on to successful hockey careers. As the Rangers look towards the future, they will continue to build on the success of the 2016 season and strive to develop the next generation of hockey stars.
