Crunch Aim for Fifth Straight Victory in Rematch with Comets
The Syracuse Crunch are heading to Utica for their final regular season matchup against the Comets at the Adirondack Bank Center. Coming off a 3-2 overtime win against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, the Crunch are looking to extend their winning streak to five games.
Head-to-Head History & Recent Form
Although Syracuse has had the upper hand in the season series, winning seven of the first ten games, Utica has claimed the last three contests played at the Adirondack Bank Center. The Crunch are currently on a strong run, having won 11 of their last 12 games.
Mercuri’s Rising Star Power
Rookie forward Lucas Mercuri is proving to be a key player for the Crunch. He scored the overtime winner against the Penguins, extending his point streak and bringing his goal total to four in the last six games. Mercuri currently leads all Crunch rookies in scoring with 21 points (12 goals, 9 assists) and boasts a plus-17 rating, ranking sixth among all AHL rookies.
Furry Finding His Scoring Touch
Forward Brendan Furry continues to impress, scoring his third goal in the last four games. He’s established a new career-high with 13 goals and 27 points this season. Furry has a total of 30 career AHL goals in 176 games.
Comets’ Playoff Push
Utica is making a late-season push for a playoff spot, going 7-3-0-1 since mid-February. They’ll be looking to rebound after a 7-3 loss to Belleville. Brian Halonen leads the Comets in scoring with 17 goals and 28 points, while Xavier Parent is also tied for the team lead in points with 28, and is on a five-game goal-scoring streak.
Goaltending Matchup
Nico Daws (11-14-7) has struggled against the Crunch this season, posting a 1-6-0 record in seven starts. He was pulled in the second period of Utica’s recent game against Belleville. Rookie Jakub Málek (9-11-2) entered in relief, making 10 saves on 12 shots.
Crunch’s Overtime Efficiency
Friday’s game against Wilkes-Barre/Scranton was only the seventh overtime game for the Crunch this season, the fewest in the AHL. Syracuse is 3-4 in overtime games, with both overtime goals scored by rookies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do the Crunch and Comets play?
The game is at the Adirondack Bank Center in Utica, NY.
How can I watch or listen to the game?
The game can be streamed via AHLTV on FloHockey and on the radio at ESPN Radio Syracuse and www.espncny.com.
Who is the leading scorer for the Syracuse Crunch?
Lucas Mercuri leads all Crunch rookies in scoring with 21 points.
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