Home opener brings big test

Despite the split, the Spruce Kings believe there are plenty of positives to build on as they prepare for their first home crowd of the year. Forward Cooper Faughnan said the team is focused on tightening up its play in the defensive zone while continuing to build chemistry with a roster that includes several new faces.

“I think we just need to clean up some little details,” said Faughnan. “We were pretty good in the O-zone, but in the D-zone we’ve got to do a little more communicating and just all be on the same page. I think as the season goes on, that’s something we’ll get better at as we work on it in practice.”

Tonight’s game also marks the first opportunity for the club’s younger players to experience BCHL hockey in front of a Prince George crowd, something Faughnan believes will provide an extra boost.

“It’ll be great getting back in front of our fans,” he said. “They always boost our step. I think the younger guys will get a really good taste of what it feels like having that support system behind them. It’s a way different atmosphere, so I think they’ll enjoy it a lot.”

Associate coach Brad Tobin echoed those thoughts, saying attention to detail remains a priority as the team continues to adjust early in the season.

“Obviously it’s a new group and there are a lot of young guys playing their first couple games in the league,” said Tobin. “Just hashing out our coverage in our own end and having a little more bite in our game will be important.”

Tobin expects fans to see an exciting style of hockey from this year’s Spruce Kings squad.

“Speed. A lot of speed,” he said. “We’ve got a lot of guys up front that can push the pace. It’s going to be fun. It’s an exciting weekend for us.”

The home stand continues Saturday when the Spruce Kings welcome another unbeaten team to town, the 2-0 Salmon Arm Silverbacks.

For Prince George, the goal is simple: use the energy of the home crowd to build momentum and turn a promising start into a successful opening weekend on home ice.

by Stephen Lewyta

Home opener brings big test

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