The Jr. Hat Tricks look to rebound after a tough weekend sweep at the hands of the division-leading Johnstown Tomahawks. They play host to the red-hot New Jersey Titans Wednesday night at 7 p.m. Let’s take a look at the keys to the game.
Record
Danbury Jr. Hat Tricks (23 games, 11-10-2, 24 points)
New Jersey Titans (33 games, 17-11-5, 39 points)
Tale of the Tape
While the Jr. Hat Tricks only picked up one of a possible four points last weekend, the New Jersey Titans enter as one of the hottest teams in the Eastern Division. They have won four games in a row and nine of their last 10. Danbury opened their season with a 4-3 overtime win against the Titans back on October 9th. The Titans have won the succeeding three matchups with the Jr. Hat Tricks since that point, including two in the month of February.
Players to Watch:
Nolan Barrett, D (DHT)– Barrett provided an unforgettable moment in franchise history back in October, potting the game-winner in extra time on Opening Night. He’ll be relied on heavily to lead the Hat Tricks once more tomorrow night. Barrett was named an honorable mention for NAHL Defenseman of the Month, racking up six assists in February. He collected two more Saturday afternoon in an overtime loss to Johnstown. Look for Barrett to push the tempo and lead the breakout for the Jr. Hat Tricks.
Jason Kleinhans, RW (DHT)– Kleinhans played one of his best games of the season Saturday afternoon, generating turnovers and attempting high-quality shots that eventually resulted in his second goal of the season. He’s been a high-energy player for the Jr. Hat Tricks, developing over the season into a solid top-six winger. Kleinhans has two goals and 10 assists over 22 games.
Evan Werner, F (NJT)– Werner is the lone double-digit goal scorer in the Titans lineup, ranking as one of the best in the league. He has racked up 17 goals in 31 games, good for fifth in the NAHL and just two behind leaders Payton Matsui (ABD) and John Gelatt (JHT). Werner has a goal and an assist in three games against the Hat Tricks this season.
RELATED: Passarelli, McCurdy look to play the “Danbury Way”
How to watch
Tickets are available in a limited capacity by clicking here. Live streaming will be featured on HockeyTV. Follow @JrHatTricksNAHL on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for important updates on the Jr. Hat Tricks all season long.
Written by Casey Bryant