Broncos present next Cougars test

Defenceman Ethan Popowich says the key has been taking advantage of every opportunity on the ice.

“You just gotta use every practice to the best you can, get extra ice we have at the end, and just work on the things you need to work on,” said Popowich.

The extended time between games has also allowed the coaching staff to keep players engaged while continuing to build systems and chemistry.

Assistant coach Carter Rigby says the unusual schedule has required a different approach.

“It’s a little different with three games in three weeks,” said Rigby. “You’ve got to be a little bit creative with your scheduling, obviously, and your practice time. Skating five days a week is too much. You’ve got to find different ways to keep these guys engaged.”

One area of focus for the Cougars has been the power play. While the team’s penalty kill has performed well early in the season, Rigby believes there is still room for improvement with the man advantage.

“I think for sure to start the season getting some chemistry,” said Rigby. “Our zone entries have got to be better than they have been. Our breakouts, we’ve got to worry about getting pucks there.”

Sunday’s game will also feature a different routine for players with a matinee puck drop rather than a traditional evening start.

Popowich says the adjustment is relatively minor.

“You get up a little earlier, get to the rink a little earlier,” he said. “Just get with the guys, try to keep it similar to a night game and go out and play your best.”

As for the opposition, both Popowich and Rigby expect a strong challenge from a Broncos team featuring a number of new faces under a new coaching staff.

Rigby believes the matchup could feature two teams with similar styles.

“They’ve got some toughness and some size up front, but I think it’ll be two kind of similar style hockey teams,” said Rigby.

Popowich echoed that sentiment.

“They’re a good team. We just gotta bring it.”

Puck drop between the Cougars and Broncos is set for Sunday afternoon at the CN Centre.

by Stephen Lewyta

Broncos present next Cougars test

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