AHL Weekly Roundup: Paul Thompson, Bryan Bickell, Calder Cup Playoff Race

Feb 15, 2017; Detroit, MI, USA; Fans and players stand for a moment of silence prior to the game between the Detroit Red Wings and the St. Louis Blues at Joe Louis Arena. Detroit Red Wings owner Mike Ilitch passed away February 10, 2017. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 15, 2017; Detroit, MI, USA; Fans and players stand for a moment of silence prior to the game between the Detroit Red Wings and the St. Louis Blues at Joe Louis Arena. Detroit Red Wings owner Mike Ilitch passed away February 10, 2017. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

AHL Weekly Roundup: Springfield Thunderbird Paul Thompson is the AHL Player of the Week, Bryan Bickell’s Family is Motivating Him Through his Battle With Multiple Sclerosis, the Calder Cup Playoff Race is Getting Close and More! (AHL Weekly Headlines)

Welcome to the AHL weekly roundup. Here you’ll find the weekly headlines, matchups and standings for your favorite NHL affiliate teams. Catch up with the weekly happenings of the American Hockey League world.

There were a lot of AHL games on the week’s schedule but a few games stood out among the rest.  On Saturday, March 1, the Hershey Bears (WSH) smashed the Binghamton Senators (OTT) 7-1, the Chicago Wolves (STL) shut out the Miwaukee Admirals (NSH) 4-0 and the St.John’s IceCaps (MTL) beat out the Syracuse Crunch (TBL) in OT 3-2.

On Sunday, March 2, the Utica Comets (VAN) shut out the Senators 5-0, the Stockton Heat (CAL) beat the Grand Rapids Griffins (DET) in a shootout 5-4 and the Bridgeport Sound Tigers (NYI) beat the Hartford Wolf Pack (NYR) 5-2.

An AHL Reflection:

AHL Weekly Roundup: Weekly AHL Headlines

Paul Thompson is the AHL Player of the Week

Paul Thompson of the Springfield Thunderbirds has been named as the AHL Player of the Week. Thompson has been a standout player for Springfield this past week. In the last week, Thompson notched four goals and an assist in three games, therefore leading the team to three consecutive wins. [TheAHL.com]

Chris Rumble’s Unbelieveable Strength and Story

The first thing that comes to mind when you hear the name Chris Rumble is probably the fan-favorite D-man on the Binghamton Senators with a rocket slap shot. But Rumble has an unbelievable story and strength behind his game. The now 25-year-old recalls his battle with cancer at the age of 21 and the incredible journey he made to get back in the rink. Rumble is an incredible hockey player, a passionate person, an exciting fan-favorite and a proud cancer survivor. [TheAHL.com]

More from AHL

“Cunny Did Night” to be on March 25

The Tucson Roadrunners have dedcided to host “Cunny Did Night” in honor team captain Craig Cunningham who survived a scary medical emergency when he fainted in November prior to a matchup. Fans are encouraged to arrive early to the Roadrunners’ matchup against the San Jose Barracua on March 25 to see a pre-game ceremony dedicated to the captain. And, don’t forget to share your fan and game experuence with the #CunnyDid to honor the team’s captain. [TheAHL.com]

Bryan Bickell’s Family is Pushing Him Through his Multiple Sclerosis

Bryan Bickell is a member of the Carolina Hurricanes organization and is a hockey player beloved by many. Bickell’s world changed when he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis this season and has come face-to-face with challenges he never thought that he would have to face. Bickell’s family, in addition to his team, is the driving force in his work towards returning to the ice.  [SportsNet]

Tom Kostopoulos is Leading the Wilkes-Barre Penguins

Tom Kostopoulos is currently leading the Wildes-Barre Penguins (PIT) in goals and is helping his younger teammates improve. The 38-year-old has skill and experience that he isn’t hesitating to share with his team. He is a big part of the reason the Penguins have such strong developing talent and a successful AHL-affiliated team. [Post-Gazette]

Calder Cup Playoff Race Heating Up

The AHL is heading towards playoff season and the pressure to grab a playoff spot is picking up pace. The standings are getting dangerously close and these teams can’t afford to let their play slip as they chase the opportunity to bring home the Calder Cup. [NHL.com]

Next: NHL Must Attend the 2018 Olympics

AHL Weekly Standings Update

Atlantic Division: Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins with .697 PCT.

North Division: Syracuse Crunch with .582 PCT.

Central Division: Grand Rapids Griffins with .675 PCT.

Pacific Division: San Jose Barracuda with .722 PCT.