Good as gold up in KL
Kirkland Lake Gold Miners are in first place in the East Division of the Northern Ontario Jr. Hockey League for the first time since the 2015-2016 season.
The Gold Miners have won five straight — including a pair at this week’s showcase tournament — to improve their record to 10-2-0 through the first 12 games of the 2018-2019 season.
The Gold Miners have scored 53 goals and allowed just 23 in the 12 games.
“It is truly nice to see the boys get off to a hot start,” second-year Gold Miners coach-general manager Ryan Wood told Hockey News North. “I think one of the biggest keys was laying out expectations and ensuring the players met them.”
Wood said he likes the makeup of his Kirkland Lake crew.
“We as a coaching staff knew what type of player we wanted and once we got them it was important to lay out the plan,” Wood relayed. “The leadership group we have has been amazing and knowing how dedicated to the team they are translates into ensuring all the new guys to KL are buying in the minute they step into the locker room.
“We have 25 drivers and no passengers,” Wood emphasized.
PHOTO: Kirkland Lake Gold Miners and Blind River Beavers, in NOJHL showcase tournament action from earlier this week.