By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA For Mike Mersch, revenge was best served with a high backhander from the slot on Wednesday night. Hit in the head as he was bashed into the boards by Parker Kelly’s heavy check late in the third period, Mersch got even not with a check or punch but by scoring the winning goal as the Rochester Americans defeated the Belleville Senators 4-3. “I don’t … [Read more...] about Mersch gains his revenge with the winning goal as Quinn, Amerks win again
Amerks
Peterka and Quinn shine as Amerks revive a little old-time hockey in home-opening win
By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA After one season was abruptly halted and the next was played with an abbreviated schedule and without fans, the Rochester Americans welcomed normalcy back to Blue Cross Arena at the War Memorial on Friday night. They also welcomed back excitement. And big hits. And slick plays. And winning. And even a little old-time hockey. Rookies JJ Peterka and … [Read more...] about Peterka and Quinn shine as Amerks revive a little old-time hockey in home-opening win
Stanley Cup curse cast in 1968 by former Amerk Larry Hillman still dooms Leafs
By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA The curse of Larry Hillman on the playoff fortunes – or rather misfortunes – of the Toronto Maple Leafs is still alive and well. That’s even after the spell-master himself said he had removed the hex nearly four years ago, after the Maple Leafs finally paid off on a 50-year debt for what Hillman perceived to be a disrespectful contract offer. But … [Read more...] about Stanley Cup curse cast in 1968 by former Amerk Larry Hillman still dooms Leafs
Amerks established plenty in a season where winning really didn’t matter
By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA The strangest season in Rochester Americans history has come to an end. With the start twice delayed as the coronavirus pandemic raged on during the fall and into winter, the American Hockey League was finally able to embark on an abbreviated season starting on the first weekend of February. The Amerks played their first game on Feb. 5, a 3-2 loss to … [Read more...] about Amerks established plenty in a season where winning really didn’t matter
Mersch has been the ideal veteran leader for Amerks
By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA The American Hockey League has billed itself as the world’s best development league for better than two decades, and the accomplishments of the young stars are front-and-center when it comes to showcasing talent. But the veteran leaders remain a critical part of the development process, which is why Rochester Americans coach Seth Appert is so happy to … [Read more...] about Mersch has been the ideal veteran leader for Amerks