The Wings have a team whose combination of elite defense and veteran scorers along with solid goaltending took them to the 2019 HBL Finals. The offense still revolves around Brad Kopp, but there are a number of forwards who can put the biscuit in the basket. The most dominant player of his time, the Great One still has plenty of magic left. Coming off an outstanding playoff performance, Kopp should be ready to go for the new season. Kopp can play and dominate the game in any situation, take advantage of his agility, and nasty backhand. Don’t count on him for a pass though. He had 78 goals and 3 assists in the 2019 campaign. Adrian Cherniwchan is a tough hard nosed defenseman with big a heart. The consummate team player, “Cherny” will get involved in the action from the opening face off – team Cherny up with Jedd Leeson, and count on him to shine at both ends of the ice. Leeson is one of the league’s emerging red-headed stars. His combination of size and speed along with his “crash and bang” style make him one of the top blueliners in the HBL. His offensive skills are good, but he excels at checking opponents out of the play. Logan Vinson saved his best for last in 2019, when he led the Wings to the HBL Finals. He has played most of his team’s games for the past few seasons. Logan has good concentration, and quick hands, so look for the big glove save and ready to knock back a few cold ones before, during and after the game. One of the most gifted players in the HBL, the electrifying centerman Brady Dallaire has always been among the league’s top scorers. Last season he set an HBL record for most snipes from above the circles. Get the puck to “Big Lanky” as much as you can – his shot is the most accurate on the Wings. He also went the entire months of January and February without losing a face off or speaking a word in the dressing room. A dynamite, fast flying right winger, Dale Lyons is one of the game’s hardest shooting forwards. Player/Coach Greg Nagam’s grinding style of play agitates opposing players and coaches. You can count on him to fill the beer bag but certainly don’t count on him to fill the back of the net.
