Samuels-Thomas and Budaj Shine for Reign in Shutout Victory
November 8, 2015 - American Hockey League (AHL)
Ontario Reign News Release
Stockton, CA - Forward Jordan Samuels-Thomas recorded a natural hat trick and goaltender Peter Budaj made 38 saves for his league-leading fourth shutout of the season as the Ontario Reign (7-1-2-0) defeated the Stockton Thunder (2-4-0-1) 4-0 at Stockton Arena Saturday night.
Box Score Reign forward Sean Backman opened the scoring 12:02 into the contest with a 5-on-3 power-play goal beating Heat goaltender Kent Simpson (L, eight saves on 12 shots) with assists from forward Nic Dowd and defenseman Kevin Gravel. Forward Jordan Samuels-Thomas made it a two-goal lead with his first tally of the season at 16:41 from forwards Justin Auger and Andrew Crescenzi. Seconds later, Samuels-Thomas redirected a shot from forward Scott Sabourin past the glove of Simpson for a 3-0 advantage at 17:04. Forward Ryan Horvat picked up the second assist. Reign forward Michael Mersch earned an opportunity to add to the lead with a penalty shot at 17:36, but Simpson denied him with a paddle-down save.
Samuels-Thomas completed the hat trick at 2:06 of the second period bashing a pass from Horvat between the legs of Simpson from the top of the goal crease. Defenseman Vincent LoVerde picked up the second assist and his 100th professional point. Simpson would be replaced by goalie Eric Hartzell (17 saves on 17 shots) following the tally.
The Reign finished the contest 1-for-4 on the power play while the Heat went 0-for-6.
Join the Reign in honoring the men and women of the Armed Forces on Wednesday, November 11 for Military Appreciation Night presented by Ontario Airport benefiting USO Ontario at 7:00 p.m. at Citizens Business Bank Arena. The Reign will wear special camo jerseys during the contest and host a postgame jersey auction. Buy Tickets
Retired and active Veterans can grab tickets for 50% off* at the Citizens Business Bank Arena Box Office with ID! *Facility fee not included. Available on the day of the game.
2015-16 Reign Full, Half and Mini Plans are on sale NOW! Create custom payment plans perfect for YOU, save up to 40% off box office prices & receive great benefits like FREE parking, guaranteed giveaways, discounts off of merchandise and more! Click here to see all the benefits and options!
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