1957/58 Preseason Preview (Power Rankings)

1- Montréal Métros
The defending champions are stacked with talent and determined to defend their title. At center, Edouard Lefebvre remains the heart of the team, with Yvan Roy supporting him. On the wings, Tristan Loubier and Jean Sirois provide veteran leadership, while young stars like Raymond Rivard and Logan Murphy show immense promise. Defensively, Arthur Tremblay anchors the blue line alongside rising stars like Julien Villeneuve and Benson Warner. In goal, Louis-Philippe Tran has emerged as the starter in training camp, ready to shoulder the load with veteran Ray Young as a reliable backup. The Métros are poised to make another deep playoff run.

Best Player: C Edouard Lefebvre
Best Rookie: D Benson Warner (3-12)

2- Trois-Rivières Tigres
The Trois-Rivières Tigres head into the new season with the sting of last year's shocking first-round exit to the Quebec Reds still fresh. The team will rely on the leadership of two-way forward William MacDougall and the crafty playmaking of Timmy Overton at center to rebound from their playoff disappointment. Wingers Ted Gagne and Philippe Lalonde bring a blend of experience and youth on the flanks, while Darby Averill and William Gray provide a solid, physical presence on the blue line. Newcomer Leonard Miron, a highly touted winger, adds youthful energy, aiming to make an immediate impact. Between the pipes, the best goalie in the league, Emmett O'Leary, returns as the backbone of the squad, looking to recapture his championship-winning form. The Tigres have the pieces for another deep run, but execution will be critical.

Best Player: G Emmett O'Leary
Best Rookie: W Leonard Miron (1-8)

3- Fredericton Stars
The Fredericton Stars had a remarkable season, showcasing their resilience and skill. They captured the Atlantic Division title before making a solid run to the Sound Cup Finals, ultimately falling to the Montréal Métros. This year, the team is poised to build on their success with a blend of experienced talent and promising young players. Notable among them is Robert Leblanc, a seasoned defenseman who brings stability and leadership to the blue line, alongside rising stars like center Cassius Robitaille and winger Egidus Provencher, who are expected to take on more prominent roles as they continue to develop. The Stars also feature a mix of experienced forwards and a solid goaltending duo in Stanley Fraser and Victor Carbonneau, setting the stage for another competitive season. With strategic acquisitions and homegrown talent, the Stars are ready to make their mark in the upcoming campaign.

Best Player: D Robert Leblanc
Best Rookie: W Sebastien Masson (1-11)

4- Quebec Reds
Quebec enters the new season with a renewed sense of optimism after their surprising run to the conference finals last year, shaking off their reputation as perennial bottom feeders. With a core of promising players, they aim to build on last season's success. Leading the charge is center Hank Rodriguez, whose playmaking ability will be crucial in generating offence alongside fellow center Mathias Tardif and veteran Sean Fontana. Wingers Bastian Nachtnebel and Jules Henry bring speed and skill to the front lines, while Stephen Muller and Darren Bennett add depth and experience to the roster. The defensive unit features Anthony Campbell and Edouard Lécuyer, who are expected to anchor the blue line effectively. In goal, the experienced William Parker will look to solidify the Reds' defensive efforts, providing stability as the team strives to break through to the next level. With a mix of established talent and promising rookies like Fridélien Marchand and Travis Jacquessonne, the Reds aim to defy expectations this season.

Best Player: G William Parker
Best Rookie: D Travis Jacquesonne (1-10)

5- Ottawa Knights
Ottawa is eager to bounce back after missing the playoffs last season despite a winning record. They boast a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talent. On offence, Les Conner, the team's big free-agent signing this offseason, brings physicality and leadership to the center. He'll be supported by the up-and-coming Carson MacDonald, whose rapid improvement could make him a key contributor down the middle, as well as veteran Allan Wilson. On the wing, look out for Nicholas Marriott, a consistent performer, and Terry Gemmill, who has been a pleasant surprise since joining the team. On defence, Rick Murray remains a rock at the blue line, combining physical play with solid defensive instincts. He'll be mentoring rising star Orphile Gobeil, who has shown tremendous potential. In goal, the Knights have a developing talent in Anthony Brown, who wrestled the starting spot away from David Moreau, who will be his backup this year. The Knights have the right pieces in place for a playoff push but will need their younger players to continue developing and their veterans to stay consistent if they want to make a deep run this season.

Best Players: D Rick Murray / C Les Conner
Best Rookie: W Carter MacDonald (1-6)

6- Charlottetown Monarchs
The Charlottetown Monarchs head into the new season looking to build on a promising campaign, one that saw them make the playoffs but suffer a frustrating first-round exit at the hands of the Cape Breton Islanders. Veterans like Jacques Tremblay and Doug Fournier bring experience and leadership to a team that mixes seasoned talent with promising young players. Frederic St. John and Justin Spring offer hope for the future as the Monarchs develop their youth movement at center. At the same time, Stephen Collins and Ken Chang will continue to provide a solid offensive presence on the wings. Defensively, Charlottetown has bolstered its backline with the emergence of Geoffrey Jeffries and Roger Legault, both showing significant improvement and adding grit to the blue line. In goal, Peter Chiasson remains the reliable backbone of the team, with Benoit Tremblay being groomed as a potential future star. The Monarchs have a balanced roster and will look to push deeper into the postseason this year, aiming to shake off their recent playoff struggles.

Best Player: G Peter Chiasson
Best Rookie: D Gideon Watson (1-7)

7- Cape Breton Islanders
The Cape Breton Islanders are coming off a surprising season where they reached the conference finals, defying their reputation as perennial bottom dwellers. The team's success last year brought a new sense of optimism to the fanbase, and the Islanders hope to build on that momentum. Center Noah Cliffe, the team's big free agent signing this offseason, will be one to watch for in the coming years, as will emerging talents like Sal Deslauriers and Marc Desrosiers. On the blue line, veterans like Léonce Dupond anchor a defence that has shown flashes of brilliance. The Islanders' goaltending situation remains intriguing, with 21-year-old David Buck keeping his hold on the starting job. Cape Breton aims to shed its underdog status and continue its climb in the ECHO standings.

Best Player: D Léonce Dupond
Best Rookie: C Marc Desrosiers (3-9)

8- Halifax Highlanders
As the Highlanders head into the new season, they find themselves at a pivotal moment, looking to recapture the success they have enjoyed so far in the history of the ECHO. The roster features a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talents, providing a balance that could prove advantageous. At the center position, Guy Morrison brings experience, while young talents like Karl Sarrazin and Benny Lane are expected to step up as they continue to develop. The wings are bolstered by players like Antony Sinclair and Charlie Ellis, both of whom have significant experience in the league. The defensive core, anchored by Stanley Blackwood, provides stability, though the team will be looking for consistent performances from younger defenders. In goal, starter Alex Davis, at 38, is a seasoned presence and is in the last few years of his career, which means Halifax will probably look to his backup, William Richer, at some point this season to give the veteran a break. With a season of potential ahead, the Highlanders must harness their strengths and navigate challenges effectively to aim for a return to their playoff contender status.

Best Player: D Stanley Blackwood
Best Rookie: D Ronan McDonald (1-5)

9- Montreal Beavers
As the Beavers prepare for the upcoming season, they stand at a critical juncture after finishing last in the league and the St. Lawrence Division last year. It's been five years since they reached the playoffs, prompting a focus on revitalizing the roster with a blend of youth and experience. Center Daniel Bernard is poised to lead the offence, supported by Yvon Robichaud and promising young talents Denis Fontaine and René Gade, the first overall pick in the 1957 draft. On the wings, veterans Jacob Cox and John Peters will mentor younger players like Leo Banks and Glen Nash, who must step up for consistent scoring. Defensively, the Beavers made a significant move by signing Martin Rose from their city rivals, the Métros, adding skill to a young blue line that includes Alphonse Boudreau and Tom Kerouac. In goal, Zach Soloway arrives from Bathurst, bringing potential stability for the starting role. With a renewed focus on strategy and player development, the Beavers are determined to break their playoff drought.

Best Player: D Martin Rose
Best Rookie: C René Gade (1-1)

10- Moncton Generals
As Moncton prepares for the upcoming season, they find themselves at a crucial juncture following a difficult period marked by three consecutive playoff misses and a last-place finish in the Atlantic Division last season. The team parted ways with their long-time head coach this offseason, signalling a desire for fresh perspectives and renewed motivation. This season, Moncton will rely on a mix of experienced players and developing young talent to turn the tide. Veteran center Thierry Rousseau, at 32 years of age, will look to guide the team's offence while promising prospects like Jonathan Marois and Antoine Leroux aim to make their mark. The wing positions see contributions from seasoned players such as Andrew Postl and Georges Héroux, but the Generals will need consistent production from all forwards to compete effectively. Defensively, the team is anchored by Bartholomé Carpentier and David Veilleux, both of whom bring a blend of youth and skill. In goal, the Generals will look for stability from Raphael Vannier, who has shown flashes of potential. With a fresh start on the horizon, Moncton must harness its collective strengths to aim for a return to playoff contention and rebuild its reputation in the league.

Best Player: G Raphael Vannier
Best Rookie: C Jonathan Marois (1-2)

11- Sherbrooke Blue Jays
Entering their third season in the ECHO, Sherbrooke are determined to climb the ranks with a solid core of talent. Center Derek Hauptmann, the team's first-ever draft pick, remains the heartbeat of the offence with his sharp playmaking skills. Alex Fortin adds depth down the middle, while young rookie Ethan MacKenzie looks to make his mark after being the third overall pick this year. On the wings, veterans Ephraim Gauthier and Sebastian Wilson provide offensive firepower, while Alain Turcotte, a 20-year-old with high potential, is set for a breakout season. The Blue Jays' defence will be anchored by Arthur MacDonald, supported by rising star Marc Mattler, who has shown significant growth. Between the pipes, Vincent Carroll returns as the starting goalie, looking to solidify his place, though David Taylor, who the team signed this offseason, could challenge for starts. This year is pivotal for Sherbrooke as they aim to establish themselves as a competitive force.

Best Player: C Derek Hauptmann
Best Rookie: W Yves Ouellette (1-4)

12- Bathurst Phantoms
The Bathurst Phantoms are heading into their third season in the ECHO, bringing a roster that blends youthful promise with a few seasoned faces. At the center position, George Hamilton, the team's 19-year-old draft pick, shows significant potential and could anchor the offence for years to come. On the wings, Louis Moreau will be counted on to lead a young forward group while the steady Stephen Dawson continues to develop. Defensively, Leonard Lefèvre and Jacob Kensington provide stability, and there's excitement about Jean-Luc Giroux, the promising 21-year-old goaltender who's poised to make his mark. With a roster of rising talent, Bathurst aims to take another step forward in this competitive league.

Best Player: W Louis Moreau
Best Rookie: C George Hamilton (2-4)

Who will make the playoffs this year in the ECHO? Predictions are welcome, and I would also appreciate your feedback and any questions you have about the ECHOverse.

Last edited by Kingsfan11 (9/27/2024 8:51 pm)

1958 Sound Cup Playoffs (1st Round)

Trois-Rivières Tigres vs Montreal Beavers
The clash between the Tigres and Beavers kicked off with a bang in Game 1, as Trois-Rivières wasted no time making their mark. Just over a minute into the match, center Timmy Overton unleashed a lightning-quick wrist shot that found the back of the net, sending the home crowd into a frenzy and putting the Tigres ahead. But Montreal wasn’t about to be outdone. Midway through the first period, winger John Peters silenced the crowd briefly with a powerful wrist shot of his own, bringing the game to a tie at 1-1. As the tension mounted, the Beavers fell into penalty trouble, and the Tigres seized the moment. Overton struck once more, netting his second goal of the night and reclaiming the lead at 2-1. As the second period wound down, with tempers flaring, Trois-Rivières’ James Martin found himself in the penalty box for interference. Montreal capitalized on the power play, as defenseman David Murray blasted a slap shot through the crowd, sending the puck soaring into the net and tying the game at two just before the period ended. The third period saw a back-and-forth battle, with both teams pushing for the win. However, neither could break the deadlock, forcing the game into overtime. In a dramatic turn, Beavers winger Leo Banks would be the one to make his mark midway through the extra frame. With a burst of speed, he stripped the puck from the Tigres’ James Martin in the neutral zone and charged down the ice, unleashing a quick shot that slipped past netminder Emmett O’Leary’s glove side and into the back of the net. The crowd was left stunned as Montreal snagged the victory from the jaws of defeat and took an early lead in the series, leaving the Trois-Rivières fans in disbelief.

In Game 2 in Montreal, the Beavers faced an early challenge when defenseman Martin Rose was penalized just 8 seconds into the match. Fortunately for the home team, the Tigres couldn't capitalize on the power play. Shortly after Rose returned to the ice, he took a shot that was blocked, leading to a rebound that winger Philippe Carpentier deftly sent into the net, giving Montreal a 1-0 lead. As the first period continued, both teams tightened their defences, resulting in a lack of clear scoring chances. Montreal maintained pressure on Trois-Rivières, forcing quick decisions from their opponents. Late in the period, the Tigres began to find their rhythm but were repeatedly thwarted by Beavers goalie Zach Soloway, who made crucial saves to maintain the lead. The second period saw the Tigres ramp up their offensive efforts, but Soloway remained outstanding, notably making a stunning glove save against Adam Walsh. By the end of the period, the Beavers held on to their slim advantage. Tension mounted in the final frame, with fans anticipating a Tigres equalizer. Midway through the third period, their perseverance paid off when Éric Renaud scored a wrist shot from the high slot, tying the game at 1-1. Just moments later, Tigres winger Ted Gagne netted another goal after gathering his rebound, putting Trois-Rivières ahead 2-1. In a determined response, the Beavers pulled their goalie in favour of sixth-man Daniel Bernard, who managed to score the tying goal with just seconds left on the clock, forcing the game into overtime. During the tense extra period, both teams vied fiercely for control. With just six minutes remaining, Montreal’s Kurt Main found an opening and fired a wrist shot that found the back of the net. The crowd erupted in celebration as the Beavers secured a 3-2 victory, delivering a surprising sweep to the Tigres, sending them home empty-handed. (MTB wins 2-0)


Charlottetown Monarchs vs Fredericton Stars
The opening period of Game 1 began with an electrifying goaltending duel between Charlottetown’s Peter Chiasson and Fredericton’s Stanley Fraser, both of whom stole the spotlight. Chiasson dazzled as he fended off powerful shots from James Bailey and Geoffrey Edwards, while Fraser stood firm against an offensive onslaught from Cassius Robitaille and Éloi Saint-Amour. Each netminder displayed an uncanny ability to thwart challenges with unshakable composure, and both defences were equally determined, blocking shots and disrupting plays with sheer tenacity. As a result, the scoreboard remained unchanged as the first period came to a close. The excitement heightened in the second period when the Monarchs finally broke the deadlock. Center Jacques Tremblay made a perfect setup for winger Ken Chang, who deftly fired the puck past Fraser, giving the home team a thrilling lead and igniting the crowd. Controversy struck just minutes later when Charlottetown’s Roger Legault delivered an unnecessary rough hit on Fredericton center William Evans, forcing him to leave the game injured. Shortly thereafter, Fredericton center Cédric Dupont, who replaced Evans, made an immediate impact by sending a quick shot past Chiasson to even the score at 1-1. However, the Monarchs quickly regained the lead when center Frederic St. John fired a wrist shot past Fraser’s glove. Just 15 seconds later, Charlottetown found themselves in penalty trouble as Geoffrey Jeffries was sent to the box for slashing. Seizing the opportunity, the Stars capitalized on the ensuing power play, and winger Gideon Irving tied the game at 2 with a well-placed wrist shot. Undeterred, the Monarchs responded late in the second period when center Doug Fournier found the back of the net with a crisp wrist shot, putting the home team ahead 3-2. In the third period, however, penalty issues once again plagued Charlottetown. Fredericton winger Egidus Provencher took full advantage of a power play, tying the game at 3 with a blistering slap shot early in the frame. Midway through the period, winger James Wright scored on the power play, nudging the visiting team ahead 4-3. Less than a minute later, while still enjoying that power play (after Charlottetown’s Stephen Collins incurred a major penalty for interference), Provencher struck again, making it 5-3 with a quick wrist shot. The Monarchs managed to claw one back late in the game when winger Steve Wetherell netted a quick wrist shot. However, the Stars quickly restored their two-goal lead barely a minute later. Winger Éloi Saint-Amour capitalized on a rebound from center Zach Middleton’s shot, slotting the puck home. The score remained steady until the final buzzer, with Fredericton taking Game 1 with a decisive 6-4 victory.

In Game 2, both teams came out with intense energy from the opening faceoff, showcasing their determination to secure a victory. Just six minutes into the first period, the Charlottetown Monarchs seized the early advantage when Arthur Laroche gathered the puck near the blue line. With a quick flick of his wrist, he fired a low, powerful shot that soared past the Fredericton goalie, igniting cheers from the fans and giving his team a 1-0 lead. However, the Fredericton Stars refused to back down. They rallied and pressed forward with renewed intensity. With just two minutes remaining in the period, their efforts paid off when Gideon Irving, stationed in the high slot, received a perfectly timed pass from William Evans. Irving wasted no time, unleashing a powerful slapshot that rocketed into the net, levelling the score at 1-1. This dramatic equalizer shifted the momentum, allowing both teams to head into the break on equal footing. As the second period commenced, Fredericton found their stride, demonstrating a notable shift in momentum. Midway through the period, Egidus Provencher, displaying impressive stickhandling skills, created just enough space near the circle. He then released a swift wrist shot that eluded the Monarchs’ goalie, putting the Stars ahead 2-1. With newfound confidence, Fredericton’s defence tightened its grip, thwarting Charlottetown’s attempts to respond and ensuring the scoreboard remained unchanged as they clung to a slim lead. Entering the third period, Charlottetown was determined to fight back and not let the game slip away. Just a minute after the puck dropped, their efforts bore fruit. Jacques Tremblay, seizing an opportunity in the Fredericton zone, executed a well-placed and precise wrist shot that found the back of the net, bringing the game to a 2-2 tie. Late in the third period, Fredericton winger Gideon Irving would go to the box for tripping, a penalty that would prove costly because, on the ensuing powerplay, Charlottetown winger Stephen Collins would beat Fredericton netminder Stanley Fraser glove-side with a quick shot to put the Monarchs up 3-2. Of course, the Stars didn't take it lying down. They pulled their goalie for an extra man with a minute left in the period, with center Cassius Robitaille coming onto the ice and immediately firing a slapshot into the back of the Charlottetown net to tie the game at three and force overtime. Overtime was as intense as the preceding three periods, with both teams battling for every inch of ice. As the clock ticked down, the players dug deep, knowing a victory would shift the momentum of the series. Eleven minutes into the extra period, Charlottetown’s Ken Chang seized his moment. Positioned just inside the circle, he received a crisp pass from Stephen Collins and, with a quick flick of his wrist, sent the puck blazing toward the Fredericton net. The shot was perfectly placed, slipping past the outstretched glove of goalie Stanley Fraser and sealing the Monarchs’ dramatic 4-3 victory to tie the series at one and force the need for a winner-take-all Game 3 back in Charlottetown.

The atmosphere in Charlottetown’s Monarch Arena was electric, pulsating with anticipation as the two rival teams prepared to face off in the pivotal Game 3 of the series. The stakes were high, and the tension palpable among the fans decked out in team colours. In a surprising decision, the Stars opted to start Victor Carbonneau, their backup goalie, a choice that would prove costly from the very beginning.  As the referee dropped the puck for the opening faceoff, Monarchs center Jacques Tremblay decisively won the draw, showcasing his skills and setting the tone for the matchup. Tremblay quickly facilitated a play that caught the Stars’ defence off guard, allowing Stephen Collins to break free in the offensive zone. With remarkable speed and precision, Collins fired a shot that soared past a flustered Carbonneau, finding the back of the net just 30 seconds into the game. The early goal sent a wave of excitement through the home crowd, thrusting the Monarchs into a 1-0 lead. As the first period unfolded, the Stars struggled to find their rhythm. Carbonneau appeared visibly rattled, his nerves evident in his unsteady movements and jittery glove work. Meanwhile, the Monarchs maintained a firm grip on the puck, executing their plays with confidence and poise. The defence stood firm, limiting the Stars' scoring chances and stifling their offensive efforts with disciplined positional play. Midway through the second period, the momentum began to shift. The Stars were awarded a power play opportunity following a hooking penalty assessed to Charlottetown's Geoffrey Jeffries, prompting the bench to rally their players. Capitalizing on the extra man, star forward Éloi Saint-Amour readied himself at the point. With a quick windup, he unleashed a powerful wrist shot that struck true, directly finding the back of the net and tying the game at 1-1. The goal rejuvenated the Stars and ignited their confidence while a chorus of cheers erupted from their loyal fans. The remainder of the second period saw both teams engaged in a fierce battle for supremacy. The Monarchs pressed hard to reclaim the lead, with Ken Chang delivering a series of dangerous attempts on goal. However, Carbonneau, shaken but resolute, managed to make a string of critical saves, denying Chang and silencing the crowd. The Stars, emboldened by their equalizer, amplified their offensive efforts. Yet, they faced staunch opposition in Monarchs goalie Peter Chiasson, who stood unwavering in his crease, expertly turning aside each attempt with acrobatic saves and sharp reflexes. As the third period unfolded, the intensity escalated. Both teams tightened their defences, knowing that every play could be pivotal. The Stars received yet another power play chance late in the frame, but the Monarchs’ penalty kill was exceptional, blocking shots and diligently disrupting passing lanes. With time winding down, neither team was able to find the back of the net, and regulation time came to a close, leaving the score tied at 1-1 and sending the game into overtime. Once in overtime, the atmosphere became even more charged, with fans on the edge of their seats. As the extra period commenced, strategic plays replaced the frantic pace of regulation, with players consciously playing it safe but eager to make the decisive move. The game remained scoreless until midway through overtime when Monarchs forward Richard Bisson seized control of the puck and embarked on a determined offensive assault. With deft puck handling, he navigated through traffic and skillfully maneuvered toward the blue line, where he found James Bailey waiting. Bailey, showcasing remarkable poise, wound up and unleashed a blistering wrist shot that sliced through the air and beat Carbonneau, finding the back of the net with pinpoint accuracy. The triumphant goal ignited a chorus of jubilation among the home crowd, who erupted with cheers and celebration. The Monarchs had sealed a hard-fought 2-1 victory, ensuring their advance to the next round of the playoffs. (CHA wins 2-1)



What are your thoughts on the first round of the playoffs? Who do you think will advance to the Sound Cup Finals? Predictions are welcome, and I would appreciate your feedback and any questions you have about the ECHOverse.