Chirps from Center Ice

The last Sunday before the regular season always is good times for me because I know that Penguins beat writer Jonathan Bombulie will be rolling out his predictions and things to look out for in the upcoming AHL season. Today is one of those days.

Bombulie did it a little different this year, focusing on the talent here in Wilkes-Barre vs. a league wide preview. He listed things in a “six-pack” variety.

I said earlier that I am not going to give it all away on the blog because it is unfair to the writer and the paper. If there is a link to the print article, I’ll post it. If not, go out and get a copy of the Citizens’ Voice today.

That said, here are some of the things that Bombulie had to say:

1. Hershey is again (sigh) the team to beat. JB had WBS slotted in at No. 5. Interestingly enough, no other Eastern Conference teams were listed in his Top 6.
2. Some of our bright spots are veterans, no rookies and the fact that Hershey is down a bit.
3. Trouble spots include depth at center, size (Sterling / Connor / Collins aren’t exactly giants) and goaltending. (3a, a mention of “Hershey being Hershey” also)
4. Contributions from Joey Haddad and Casey Pierro-Zabotel. In my opinions, fish or cut bait years for both.
5. Brad Thiessen. Told Bombulie his goal is to be the best goaltender in the AHL this year. Giddyup.

There was a spotlight version all on it’s own featuring pieces on Brett Sterling, Andrew Hutchinson, Ryan Craig and Alain Nasreddine. All will be huge, huge keys to success in Wilkes-Barre Township this season.

Nice Q&A with head coach John Hynes, who is a classical music buff.

Overall, fine work by Jonathan. I’m going to question him at the October 11 booster club meeting regarding some of the content. Such as, what are the odds of Norfolk, Charlotte and Binghamton having any success this year and contending for a Calder Cup.

This week, Bombulie sits down with Tom Grace on Monday, Alain Nasreddine on Tuesday, Jeff Barrett on Wednesday and Brad Thiessen on Thursday. The season prediction (always a favorite of mine) is Friday and the preview of the Hershey game is Saturday. Check that out.