The Grizzlies begin their 5-day road trip tonight in Wichita in what will be the 4th meeting of the year between the two teams. The Grizzlies currently lead the season series 3-0, outscoring the Thunder 18-4.
Stout goaltending and an explosive offense was the formula for the Grizzlies in December, and it's that same formula they'll need to capitalize tonight. The Thunder currently lead the ECHL's Mountain Division in goals against, while Utah's potent line of Lewis, McGauley, and Molino have a combined 41 goals on the season. Goaltender Martin Ouellete has posted a record of 9-1-0-1 since joining the Grizzlies back in mid-December, earning him ECHL Goaltender of the Month honors.
Wichita forward Stefan Fournier currently leads the Thunder with 13 goals. He was also the lone scorer for Wichita the last time these two teams met. With defenseman Teigan Zahn recently placed on injured reserve, the Grizzlies will rely on team captain Taylor Richart and defenseman Eric Williams to keep Fournier in check.
The upcoming road trip is a crucial one for the Grizzlies, as each of their four games comes against a divisional foe. Currently seated in third place in the Mountain Division, just three points behind the Idaho Steelheads, the trip poses a unique opportunity for the Grizzlies to distance themselves from the lower half of the division.
Puck drop for tonight's game will be at 6:00 PM MST. You can stream the game live on ECHL TV or by listening to Classic Country 1370. Follow the Utah Grizzlies on social media to stay up to date on all the action as well.
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