By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA When their rookie seasons ended in June in the Calder Cup Eastern Conference finals, Jiri Kulich and Isak Rosen had proven they were well on their way to playing in the NHL. By the time the calendar hit Thanksgiving this season, the talented forwards had reinforced that belief. Kulich was among the top goal-scorers in the American Hockey League, … [Read more...] about Kulich, Rosen slumps magnified in Amerks 2-1 loss to Crunch
Amerks rookie Neuchev elevating his game, with an assist to Google Translate
By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA The list of teaching aids used by the Rochester Americans coaching staff is extensive, from video clips and whiteboards to on-ice drills and sessions in the shooting room. Oh, and Google Translate. At least when it comes to making sure rookie winger Viktor Neuchev fully understands the message. Playing in North America for the first time, the … [Read more...] about Amerks rookie Neuchev elevating his game, with an assist to Google Translate
Offense sputters as Amerks blanked by Utica
By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA The Rochester Americans modest three-game winning streak came to an abrupt end on Friday night when they were shut out 4-0 by goalie Isaac Poulter and the Utica Comets. The Comets ramped up the physicality and the Amerks weren’t able to counter, and when Ryan Scmeltzer and Joe Gambardella scored in a nine-minute stretch of the first and second periods, … [Read more...] about Offense sputters as Amerks blanked by Utica
Aiming to just be one of the boys, Levi enjoys his one-game stint with Amerks
By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA Devon Levi knew this trip to Rochester would be brief. The rookie goaltender would play in Saturday’s home game for the Rochester Americans against the Springfield Thunderbirds, then head back to Buffalo and accompany the Sabres on their three-game visit to California next week. But Levi didn’t want to be just some outsider joining the Amerks just so … [Read more...] about Aiming to just be one of the boys, Levi enjoys his one-game stint with Amerks
Comrie finding his game as Amerks blank Phantoms 6-0
By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA Eric Comrie is now in his ninth professional season, and over the previous two years filled the backup goaltending role with the NHL’s Winnipeg Jets and then the Buffalo Sabres. But despite a resume that shows better than 250 games of pro experience, he’s more than willing to keep learning after a New Year’s Day demotion by the Sabres. Which may be … [Read more...] about Comrie finding his game as Amerks blank Phantoms 6-0