WHL Spokane Chiefs

Falk flourishes

Published on January 17, 2007 under Western Hockey League (WHL)
Spokane Chiefs News Release


Don't mistake Justin Falk's three assists in the last three games for the type of player he is. The 18-year-old knows where his bread is buttered and is happier with his +5 rating, bringing his season long total to +10 and putting himself into a tie for that category for the team lead with Sean Zimmerman.

"Zimmy wasn't too happy about that," Falk smiled. "During stretch we joke with each other. It is always a battle between us defensive-defensemen. I think if we look after our own end the plus-minus will take care of itself."

Things have been taking care of themselves enough for the 6'5" blueliner that the NHL's Central Scouting Bureau recently recognized him and ranked him 112th among North American skaters eligible for the 2007 draft.

"I didn't think about it too much," he said, so much so that he had to be clued in that his name was included on the list. "A couple of the guys had to tell me. It was a bit of a surprise. I like to think that I have come a long way and would like to improve on a day-to-day basis and keep moving up the rankings by the end of the year."

"The number one thing that all the NHL teams are looking at is how a player improves from game one to game 72 and if he keeps improving the way he has been the draft will take care of itself," Chiefs Assistant Coach Steve Pleau said.

"He really has come into his own and believes in himself now and is learning about preparation and intensity and showing that he wants to be a professional by his actions on and off the ice."

"Playing with confidence always helps," Falk said. "It helps that the coaches are using me in different situations and showing confidence in me. If I play up to my potential, I feel I can be a factor for this team."

"We have the assurance he can handle any situation given to him; a physical challenge, penalty kill or power play," Pleau said prior to the team leaving for a seven game in nine night road trip through the east that will bring Falk to the teams closest to his hometown.

"My parents will come for most of the swing, but each game will be just another one, like a U.S. Division game. We will try to treat each game the same way," Falk said.

Brandon will be the first step of the road on Friday night at 5:30. Mike Boyle will go on the air at 5:00 on KJRB 790 the Fan with Comcast Hockey Tonight. The weekend will include games against Moose Jaw on Saturday and Regina on Sunday.

Falk and the Chiefs will not return to the Spokane Arena until Wednesday, January 31st when they host the Chilliwack Bruins for the final time this season.

Tickets to all home games are available by calling the Chiefs office at (509) 535-PUCK or TicketsWest at (800) 325-SEAT.

Check out the Spokane Chiefs Statistics

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Western Hockey League Stories from January 17, 2007


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