IceCats winter update: Freddie Franchise, Fichaud under fire, Buzak emerges

by Andrew Marsella - Associate Editor

The Worcester IceCats of the American Hockey League continued their dynamic second season throughout the winter break, playing several important divisional games against Northern division rivals Portland, Providence, and Springfield, as well as contests against other division teams - such as expansion Baltimore Bandits. It's been a tough month for the 'Cats, whose overall record has slipped to 13-15-9, placing them two points behind the second place Providence Bruins, who have been on a winning streak of late.

The most impressive game of the holiday season, by far, was a 10-7 victory over the Portland Pirates. It was the highest scoring game in IceCats history, as well as in recent AHL history, and featured a penalty shot (with a great save!) against goalie Eric Fichaud and a hat-trick by IceCat scoring leader Fred Knipscheer. Knipscheer, who has 19 goals and 18 assists for 37 points in 31 games, has been the IceCats most consistent and exciting forward, and is on par for a strong 90 point season barring a call-up by NHL affiliate St. Louis Blues (we can hope, can't we?!).

Also, IceCats rookies Fichaud and Jamie Rivers on defense have been selected to play in the AHL All-Star Game, which is on ESPN2 at 7:30 tonight (the 16th). Fichaud, who has played a majority of the IceCat's games and consistently been one of the AHL's leading goaltenders, was selected (big surprise) in the All-Star fan ballot, while Rivers was selected by the All-Star committee.

Another pleasant surprise for the IceCats has been the recent emergence of backup goalie Mike Buzak, the 6'1" Blues prospect, as a solid contender for goaltending duty in Worcester. After a disappointing 4-2 loss to the Baltimore Bandits following the 10-7 fiasco (an incredible game in all aspects except goaltending), a rather tired and frazzled Fichaud was given a two game rest, allowing Buzak to start back-to-back games for the first time all season. He responded with extremely solid work between the pipes, picking up consecutive ties to start off the 'Cats recent road trip. Buzak's record has improved to 1-3-3 with a save percentage of over 90%, proving that he is a valuable and competent asset in the cage for the IceCats.

The IceCats return to Centrum ice this Friday night (the 19th) at 7:35 to face off against the Fredericton Canadiens and again on Sunday (the 21st) for a 4:05 matinee versus the Springfield Falcons. The Springfield game will be opened by an appearance from the famous Hanson Brothers from the classic hockey movie Slapshot (don't miss this one!).

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