Broncos Captain Cody Eakin will also be wearing the “C” for Team WHL in the Subway Super Series game against Team Russia this week in Prince George. This will be the second time Eakin has suited up in the Super Series. The Washington Capitals draft pick’s participation was somewhat in question last week when he missed Swift Current’s game against Portland with a nagging injury. However, Eakin returned to the line-up this weekend and looked very good in scoring the overtime winner against Seattle on Saturday.
Eakin’s alternate captains will be Tyson Barrie (Kelowna), Brett Connolly (PG) and Matt McKenzie (Calgary). He’ll be heading out tomorrow to join Team WHL for Thursday’s game. Eakin will then have a quick turn around from Prince George to Red Deer for Friday’s Broncos game against the Rebels.
I’d say after his (from all accounts) outstanding performance at the World Junior evaluation camp this summer Eakin is a lock for Team Canada’s camp in December regardless of his play in this particular game. That doesn’t mean it would hurt for him to go out there and put on a show. It would shock me if someone as talented as the Broncos Captain doesn’t make the World Junior squad this time around. I’m sure he isn’t going to take that for granted and is going to do anything he can to make sure he gets the invite.
BLONDE BOMBSHELL
Speaking of Eakin, Magic 97.1 morning man (and often Broncos colour commentator) Ryan Switzer discovered some “magic” performed by local students on the Eakin bobbleheads. Check out his blog on Swift Current Online for the scoop. It looks like the toy makers had a “blonde moment” that left the Broncos “seeing red” and forced into action. Seriously though kudos to the local school for stepping up and helping out. They made sure a lot of young (and old) Broncos fans went home happy on Saturday.
CHYNOWETH SURVIVES AXE
Dean Chynoweth is staying behind the New York Islanders bench, but he’ll have some new company there. The former Broncos Coach and GM was retained as an assistant coach today despite the firing of bench boss Scott Gordon. AHL Coach Jack Capuano will take over as Head Coach on Long Island.
Chynoweth and company are in the midst of a 10 game losing streak and I guess something had to give. A lot of times that will mean that the whole coaching staff gets the boot. It seems Chynoweth has done enough to stick around after the move. I’m sure Broncos fans are hoping he and the Islanders can get things turned around.
On another note, I was expecting to see the Central Scouting CHL based NHL Draft watch list today. Apparently it has been delayed until tomorrow. I would expect you’ll see a number of Broncos names on that list. There are several 93s on this club who certainly deserve consideration and will be getting attention throughout the year. I don’t think it’s a big stretch to assume there will be a hand full of Broncos getting their names called this June.
Lastly, I just wanted to say to those who asked about Laura’s visit… yes she did enjoy Swift Current very much. That seems to be the most common question. Luckily we didn’t have the upcoming snow storm when she was here. As a Castlegar, BC girl she is certainly used to a different climate and geography, but she has quickly warmed to the city the same way I have. She already loaded up with Broncos gear from the Stable and is firmly on board as a fan. Now we just have to work on getting her here for her nursing placement!
Shawn Mullin's Swift Current Broncos Blog 