The Kitchener Rangers, a prominent junior ice hockey team based in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, fielded an exciting and talented roster during the 2017 season. This article delves into the details of the Kitchener Rangers 2017 roster, highlighting key players, their positions, and notable achievements.
Understanding the 2017 Kitchener Rangers Roster
The 2017 Kitchener Rangers roster was a blend of veteran experience and promising youth, reflecting the team's commitment to both immediate success and long-term growth. The roster was composed of 25 players, including 18 skaters and 7 goaltenders, providing depth and competition at every position.
Forwards: Speed, Skill, and Scoring
The forward group was led by a dynamic trio of Adam Mascherin, Connor Bunnaman, and Adam Liska, who combined for an impressive 207 points during the regular season. Mascherin, a 2016 second-round pick of the Florida Panthers, led the team with 35 goals and 67 points, showcasing his elite goal-scoring ability. Bunnaman, a 2016 fourth-round pick of the Philadelphia Flyers, chipped in with 27 goals and 56 points, while Liska contributed 25 goals and 54 points.
- Adam Mascherin: 35G, 32A, 67P in 66GP
- Connor Bunnaman: 27G, 29A, 56P in 68GP
- Adam Liska: 25G, 29A, 54P in 68GP
Defensemen: Stability and Offense
The Rangers' defensive corps was anchored by veteran blueliners Logan Stanley and Douglas Blaisdell, who provided a steadying presence and contributed offensively as well. Stanley, a 2016 first-round pick of the Winnipeg Jets, tallied 25 points in 68 games, while Blaisdell chipped in with 22 points in 66 contests.
- Logan Stanley: 5G, 20A, 25P in 68GP
- Douglas Blaisdell: 4G, 18A, 22P in 66GP
Goaltenders: Competition and Depth
The goaltending position was a strength for the Rangers in 2017, with Luke Opilka and Mario Culina providing a formidable tandem. Opilka, a 2017 sixth-round pick of the St. Louis Blues, posted a .905 save percentage and 3.17 goals-against average in 35 games, while Culina, an undrafted free agent, registered a .908 save percentage and 3.06 goals-against average in 28 contests.
- Luke Opilka: .905 SV%, 3.17 GAA in 35GP
- Mario Culina: .908 SV%, 3.06 GAA in 28GP
Notable Achievements and Transactions
The 2017 Kitchener Rangers roster saw several notable achievements and transactions throughout the season. In January, the team traded for overage forward Nick McHugh, who provided a significant boost to the team's offense with 21 points in 32 games. Additionally, defenseman Logan Stanley was named to the 2017 CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game, further cementing his status as a top prospect in the hockey world.
On the ice, the Rangers enjoyed a strong regular season, finishing with a 37-23-6-2 record and 82 points, good for second place in the Midwest Division. They would go on to make a deep playoff run, ultimately falling to the Erie Otters in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) Championship Series. Despite the disappointing finish, the 2017 Kitchener Rangers roster left a lasting impact on the organization and its fans.
