Game Preview: Brainerd Warriors vs. Sauk Rapids-Rice Storm

The Brainerd Warriors host the Sauk Rapids-Rice Storm on Tuesday, January 7, at 7:00 PM at the Essentia Health Sports Center.


Team Overview

Brainerd Warriors (2-9-0, 2-2-0 Central Lakes Conference)
The Warriors, led by Head Coach Jerr Johnson, are coming off a dominant 8-1 win against Willmar. Despite their struggles this season, Brainerd has shown the ability to put up big offensive numbers when everything clicks. They are averaging 2.82 goals per game but need to tighten up defensively, as they allow 3.91 goals per game.

The offense is driven by Chad King, who leads the team with 11 points, and Dylan Wikoff, who has scored 7 goals this season. Goaltender Griffin Bartholomaus has been a steady presence in net, posting a .899 save percentage and a 3.66 GAA.

Key Strength: The Warriors’ ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities when they find their rhythm.


Sauk Rapids-Rice Storm (5-5-1, 2-1-0 Central Lakes Conference)
The Storm, coached by Brady DeGagne, are coming off a 5-4 win against Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato. The team’s offense has been their weapon, averaging 4.73 goals per game, led by an explosive top line. However, their defense has been inconsistent, giving up 3.82 goals per game.

Elijah Fitch leads the Storm with 11 goals and 26 points, tied with linemate Bryden Prelvitz, who also has 26 points. Vincent Murn has been a key secondary contributor with 10 goals. Reed Omvig and Landon Jennings have shared the new this season, with Omvig putting up a 3.00 GAA.

Key Strength: A high-powered offense capable of overwhelming opponents with its top line.


Brainerd’s penalty kill (87.5%) has been strong, but they will face a challenge against the Storm’s power play, which converts at 22.7%.


Players to Watch

  • Brainerd Warriors:
    • Chad King: The team’s leading scorer will look to ignite the offense.
    • Griffin Bartholomaus: A solid performance in goal will be crucial against the Storm’s potent attack.
  • Sauk Rapids-Rice Storm:
    • Elijah Fitch: A dynamic forward who can change the game with his scoring ability.
    • Bryden Prelvitz: Fitch’s linemate and equal contributor, who will look to keep the pressure on Brainerd’s defense.

Prediction

The Warriors have the home-ice advantage, the Storm’s top line and deeper offensive output could give them the edge.

Prediction: Sauk Rapids-Rice 5, Brainerd 3.

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