Spitfires inch past Flint
Windsor is back in customary territory atop the Western Conference of the Ontario Hockey League. The Spitfires scored two more wins this weekend, giving them five successive victories and a share of first place with the Flint Firebirds while holding a game in hand.
The Spitfires have 55 points from a record of 26-8-3. Flint also has 55 points but has played one more game than Windsor. The Firebirds split a pair of weekend games.
Spitfires 2, Niagara 1. Second year forward Ethan Garden scored the game winner in overtime and defenseman Anthony Cristoforo clicked for his 11th tally of the season as the Spitfires nipped the IceDogs. Rookie goalie Michael Newlove won his sixth game of the season for Windsor.
Spitfires 4, Erie 1. It was another road win for Windsor, which got goals from Ethan Garden — his 10th of the season — as well as rookies Caden Harvey and Johnny McLaughlin and overage defenseman Wyatt Kennedy. Joey Costanzo won his 20th game of the season in the Windsor net.
Flint 5, London 0. Overage reclamation project Mason Vaccari — formerly of the Kingston Frontenacs — made 26 saves for his 21st win of the season and recently acquired forward Kevin He had a goal and assist to spark the Firebirds past the Knights. Alex Kostov chipped in with three assists for Flint.
Brampton 2, Flint 1. The Firebirds outshot the Steelheads 36-23 but overage defenseman Urban Podrekar was the only player to find the back of the net for the Firebirds.
Trade deadline. Friday is the OHL trade deadline and don’t be surprised if general manager Billy Bowler makes a move or two for the Spitfires. Bowler has a few excess draft picks stashed away but Windsor may also be open to moving a younger forward or defensemen if the right trade for an older skater can be made. Flint general manager Dave McParlan has been very active on the trade front throughout the season and it would not be a shocker if he made another deal before the deadline.