Kitchener Rangers Roster in the 2014-2015 Season
The Kitchener Rangers, a renowned junior ice hockey team based in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, had an exciting roster during the 2014-2015 season. This article delves into the details of the team's lineup, highlighting key players and their roles in the season's journey.
Forwards: The Scoring Prowess
The Rangers' forward line was a blend of youth and experience, boasting a mix of skill, grit, and scoring ability. Leading the charge was Ryan MacInnis, who notched 34 goals and 73 points in his rookie campaign. The son of former NHLer Al MacInnis, Ryan displayed exceptional hockey sense and playmaking skills, often setting up his linemates for scoring opportunities.
Joining MacInnis on the top line was Rickard Rakell, a dynamic winger with a penchant for goal-scoring. Rakell, who would go on to enjoy a successful NHL career with the Anaheim Ducks, tallied 37 goals and 63 points in his final OHL season. His quick release and ability to find open ice made him a constant threat on the power play.
Rounding out the top line was Ben Thomson, a physical presence who provided a balance of skill and grit. Thomson, known for his relentless forechecking and agitating style, chipped in with 20 goals and 45 points while also serving as an alternate captain.
Defensemen: A Blend of Skill and Grit
The Rangers' blueline was anchored by a trio of steady, reliable defensemen. Leading the way was Dylan DiPerna, a smooth-skating, puck-moving defenseman who quarterbacked the power play. DiPerna, a fifth-round pick of the Nashville Predators, registered 44 points in 68 games while logging heavy minutes in all situations.
Partnered with DiPerna was Frank Corrado, a rugged, physical defenseman who brought a sandpaper element to the backend. Corrado, a sixth-round pick of the Vancouver Canucks, played a key role in the Rangers' penalty kill and chipped in offensively with 27 points.
Completing the top three was Max Iafrate, a stay-at-home defenseman known for his shot-blocking abilities and physical play. Iafrate, the son of former NHLer Al Iafrate, provided a steady presence on the backend and played a crucial role in the Rangers' defensive structure.
Goaltending: A Dynamic Duo
The Rangers enjoyed a luxury in net with a dynamic duo of goaltenders, Francois Brassard and Luke Opilka. Brassard, a sixth-round pick of the Ottawa Senators, started the majority of games, posting a .907 save percentage and 3.07 goals-against average. His athleticism and competitiveness made him a formidable opponent in net.
Opilka, a fifth-round pick of the St. Louis Blues, provided a solid backup option, appearing in 22 games with a .899 save percentage and 3.27 goals-against average. His ability to steal games and provide a spark when called upon made him an invaluable asset to the team.
Roster Breakdown
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Forwards | Ryan MacInnis, Rickard Rakell, Ben Thomson, Matt Puempel, Nick Magyar, Adam Mascherin, Darby Llewellyn, Brent Pedersen, Mitchell Heard, Jacob Cascagnette, Justin Bailey, Connor Bunnaman, Cameron Gaunce, Darby Llewellyn, Brent Pedersen, Mitchell Heard, Jacob Cascagnette |
| Defensemen | Dylan DiPerna, Frank Corrado, Max Iafrate, Ben Fanelli, Evan McEneny, Mitchell Vande Sompel, Darby Llewellyn, Brent Pedersen, Mitchell Heard, Jacob Cascagnette |
| Goaltenders | Francois Brassard, Luke Opilka |
The Kitchener Rangers' 2014-2015 roster was a talented and balanced group, boasting a mix of skill, grit, and experience. With a strong core of forwards, a steady defense, and a dynamic duo in net, the Rangers were poised to make a deep playoff run. Despite falling short of expectations, the team's performance throughout the season was a testament to the talent and potential of its roster.
