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WHL Spokane Chiefs

Smith Sparks Spokane to Shootout Stunner for Sixth-Straight

March 1, 2020 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Spokane Chiefs News Release


SPOKANE, Wash. - The Spokane Chiefs matched a season best six-game winning streak with a 4-3 shootout win over the Tri-City Americans in front of over 10,000 at Spokane Arena on Saturday night. Team captain and New Jersey Devils prospect Ty Smith, after setting a new franchise mark with eight points in Friday's game, continued to shine with two goals.

Tri-City led early following a score from Landon Roberts at 3:50 of the opening frame and held that lead for the duration of the first period despite Spokane leading shots 16-7.

Chiefs winger Luke Toporowski answered at 2:31 of the second, connecting for his ninth goal in 11 games versus the Americans this season. Toporowski has now scored a goal in five of his last six games dating back to Feb. 15.

The Ams countered with a pair of second period goals -- at 4:36 and 12:57 (shorthanded) -- giving them a 3-1 lead headed into the second intermission. Spokane led shots on goal 34-16 after two.

The Chiefs kept at it, finally breaking through at 15:37 of the third when Smith found a lane through traffic to beat goaltender Talyn Boyko up high.

Smith found the twine again just 51 seconds later, again utilizing a screen in front to pop in his second of the night and 17th of the season, forcing overtime.

Following five minutes of scoreless extra time, the game was decided in a shootout. Spokane's Brad Ginnell scored on a backhand in tight and James Porter Jr. turned away all three Tri-City shooters to clinch the victory.

The Chiefs finished the night with a 57-19 edge in shots, including a 21-2 margin in the third period. Spokane went 0-for-7 on the power play and 1-for-1 on the penalty kill.

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The Chiefs hit the road for three games before returning to the Spokane Arena on Tuesday, March 10 when they take on the Kamloops Blazers for Washington's Lottery Night!

Tickets for all Chiefs home games are available now online and via the Chiefs' Ticket Office, over the phone at 509-535-PUCK or in-person at Spokane Arena during regular business hours.

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