Articles, Hockey

The Heat search for elusive road wins

The Abbotsford Heat are on the road this week, with three games of the must-win variety. Wednesday and Friday give the Calgary Flames AHL affiliate a chance at points against the last place Hamilton Bulldogs, while Saturday offers an afternoon tilt against the division-leading Toronto Marlies. The Heat are in tough to make the playoffs, having won just three of their last ten games.

More after the jump.

Abbotsford Heat defenseman Joe Callahan is better known for his physical, stay-at-home style, but he added an assist in a split against the Rockford Ice Hogs the weekend of March 21, 2013.
Abbotsford Heat defenseman Joe Callahan is better known for his physical, stay-at-home style, but he added an assist in a split against the Rockford Ice Hogs the weekend of March 21, 2013. Photo by Jason Kurylo for Pucked in the Head.

As of this posting, the Heat are in a four-way tie for the final playoff spot in the AHL Western Conference with nine games remaining. Unfortunately for them, the Chicago Wolves and Oklahoma City Barons have 14 games left, and the Rockford Ice Hogs have 12. Wins are paramount, and preferably regulation wins — despite picking up a win against the Ice Hogs on Saturday, Abbotsford gave Rockford one of those points back as the game went to OT on a tying goal with just nine seconds left.  Click here for up-to-date standings.

Abbotsford Heat ice crew member Kirsten picks up speed as Danny Taylor strikes his trademark pose during a TV timeout at the AESC. Photo by Jason Kurylo for Pucked in the Head.
Abbotsford Heat ice crew member Kirsten picks up speed as Danny Taylor strikes his trademark pose during a TV timeout at the AESC. Photo by Jason Kurylo for Pucked in the Head.
It's always good to tip the hat to the folks behind the scenes. Here's Andrew, a security fella always quick with a smile and a chat by the media green room at the AESC. Photo by Jason Kurylo for Pucked in the Head.
It’s always good to tip the hat to the folks behind the scenes. Here’s Andrew, a security fella always quick with a smile and a chat by the media green room at the AESC. Photo by Jason Kurylo for Pucked in the Head.