BLAIR BETTS ACQUIRED FROM PUFFIN

Thunder Bay, Ont- Centre, Blair Betts was acquired from the Reykjavik Puffin on Wednesday for prospects Colin Greening and Matt Halischuk. Both were assigned to the Timberwolves top minor-league affiliate the Duluth Pups.

>>>Betts had 4 goals and 6 assists for 10 points in 26 games for the rebuilding Puffin. One glaring stat going for the Edmonton-native is his +2 rating on a club oozing with multiple players with -15s and -16s.

>>>"We're very excited to bring Blair Betts to Thunder Bay," said Timberwolves GM Blake Wendt from his office at Canadian National Gardens. "He's got very good size (6'3", 210 lbs) and quietly gets the job done. He's does everything right. Kills penalties, takes and wins alot of draws and is just an all around complete player. Exactly what we need to accomplish the goals we have for this season and beyond."

>>>Betts comes to Thunder Bay where there is already a log jam at the pivot position with Marc Savard setting up Marian Gaborik on the top line. The versitile Mike Fisher bouncing between the third and first lines and rookies John Tavares and Matt Duchene and veteren, Dean McAmmond. But Wendt says there is nothing given and expects there to be alot of movement at centre.

>>>"Nothing is owed to anyone here. That's not meant to be a disrespectful approach, but that is the reality. We don't care what your draft position was or what your history is. You earn everything and compete everyday. We want guys fighting to play (not literally) and taking that mentality to their opponent. Makes for a very competitive atmpsphere."

>>>For the time being, Blair Betts will remain with the Timberwolves will likely not dress for Friday's game against the Express.

WOLVES DRAW HIGH-SCORING SPURS

Thunder Bay, Ont- Coming off a 3-1 win on Tuesday against Havana, the Thunder Bay Timberwolves were looking to close out their third game in three days on a positive note against the Denver Spurs on Wednesday.

>>>Denver came into the Canadian National Gardens as the CCHL's top scoring team. Averaging over four goals a game. Thunder Bay has been skyrocketing up the rankings in the defensive department since acquiring elite goaltender, Henrik Lundqvist. The game looked like a heck of a matchup.

>>>The first 20 minutes saw no goals from either side, but a distinctive advantage with the Timberwolves taking 14 shots on Denver's Pekka Rinne, to the Spurs 5 on Lundqvist.

>>>"We wanted to set a tempo early," said Timberwolves forward Patrick Sharp. "We knew they were a gun-slinging team that puts up a lot of points. We definately wanted to take our game right back at them."

>>>The 2nd period remained scoreless until 10:20 when former Timberwolf, Scottie Upshall put the Spurs up first. Upshall doubled up the lead at 19:18 to put Thunder Bay on their heels going into the final intermission.

>>>"We got away from the game-plan there in the second half of the 2nd period," said Timberwolves assistant coach Wes Walz. "They escaped the containment we had in place from the opening faceoff and we gave them too much room. Give a club like that, that much room and you're toast."

>>>In the final 20 minutes the Timberwolves got back to the game they played in the first period. Relentless shots on Rinne, bottling up the neutral zone and collapsing the defensive zone.

>>>At 13:19 while on the power play, the Timberwolves were finally rewarded when TJ Oshie (pictured) cut the lead in half.

>>>With the game winding down and the home team desperate for something, anything, the thing they were looking for came off the stick of sniper, Marian Gaborik at 19:02 for the Slovakian's 22nd goal of the season.

>>>Overtime could not decide a clear winner and the game ended 2-2. But after the game, many of the Timberwolves felt as if they had indeed won.

>>>"While it's disappointing to not get two points out of this," said general manager Blake Wendt. "We held the highest scoring club in the league to two goals, when they average twice that. Our coaching staff came up with a plan to counteract Denver's attack and our players executing it to almost perfection."

>>>"We outshot them (49-36) and minus some outstanding goaltending from Rinne, we're sitting here talking about a win for us," said Oshie. "Nobody likes ties, but we'll take this one. Denver is explosive and we managed to subdue their blast."

>>>The Timberwolves have a much needed break on Thursday, but are back it on Friday when they welcome Sidney Crosby and the Long Island Express to the Canadian National Gardens.

>>>
>>>3-STARS

>>>

>>>*Pekka Rinne (DEN) - 47 saves

>>**Marian Gaborik (THU) - Game-tying goal in final minute of regulation

>***Scottie Upshall (DEN) - 2 goals

DAYTON HANDS WOLVES LUMP OF COAL

Dayton, OH- On a Christmas Day game in southwest Ohio, there is no sugar-coating the end result for the visiting Thunder Bay Timberwolves in the home of the Dayton Musicmen. A 2-0 shutout loss to one of the hottest clubs in the CCHL. The first time this season that Thunder Bay has been held without a goal, and also the first loss in 6 games.
>>>The Timberwolves managed 22 shots to Dayton's 35. Were dominated in the faceoff circle (28-37), and couldn't make good on the 3 power plays afforded to them.
>>>"We weren't in it," summed up Thunder Bay defenseman Erik Johnson. "Our heads weren't in it and they took advantage of that. Opportunities were there and we passed them by. Not too much else can be said. Christmas on the road or not, we have to be up and ready for games like this."
>>>The Timberwolves left immediately following the game back for Thunder Bay to be with family. They will have Sunday off and play again Monday at home against the new #1-ranked Copenhagen Crusaders. The first of another 3-in-3 days (Tuesday vs Havana and Wednesday vs Denver) and 5 home games in the next week.
>>>"It will be nice to get a good chuck of games at home," Timberwolves coach, Ryan McGill said. "But it's not a time to get comfortable. We're a team that is marked for success and are being taken very seriously by our opponents. It's a time to take our game to a new level."
>>>Coach McGill is expected to reliquish command back to coach Craig Hartsburg after the first of the year. Coach Hartsburg has been on medical leave since just prior to the start of the season after being diagnosed with an asending aortic aneurysm. No date has been circled on the calender, but Hartsburg has had no complications in his recovery and has been around the club at home to try and keep up.
>>>"Coach McGill has done an outstanding job in Coach Hartsburg's absents," remarked GM Blake Wendt. " We're off to the best start in this hockey club's existence and the work of not only Coach McGill, but assistant Wes Walz cannot be ignored. Coach Hartsburg's health is first, and when he is ready, the Thunder Bay Timberwolves will be here waiting for him."

#1 WOLVES SHUTOUT HOMERS

Thunder Bay, Ont- A day of rest was all that was needed for Henrik Lundqvist (pictured) and the Thunder Bay Timberwolves to shutout the Springfield Homers at Canadian National Gardens on Thursday.

>>>A pair of goals from Marian Gaborik in the bookend periods of the game sealed the deal and the suddenly #1 team in the CCHL (17-6-5, 39 points) sit pretty atop the league standings.

>>>"It's a good team win for us," said Lundqvist after the game. "I had to make some key saves, but the guys in front of me deserve all the credit. Lanes were cleared and they kept my working space clean to make those saves. This is a really tight group of guys here. We all know what we want and getting these two points helps in that ultimate goal. Now it's on to the next one and we'll need this same effort again and for every game throughout."

>>>The Timberwolves next game is a Christmas Day tilt in Dayton, Ohio against the resurgent Musicmen.

>>>"Dayton will be a tough test," said Timberwolves GM Blake Wendt. "They're loaded, they're hot, they're at home and they're looking to meet and climb over that .500 mark (currently Dayton is 12-13-3). Bill (Corfield, Musicmen GM and co-CCHL commissioner), has quickly turned a corner and taken advantage of a situation where there are alot of re-building teams in the league and looking to move talent out for picks and prospects. Dayton is a wealthy club that can take on alot of salary, and he loaded up high-end prospects for the past couple seasons to move out for this move. Regardless of their current ranking, the Musicmen are a legitimate threat we will take them very seriously."

>>>

>>>3-STARS

>>>

>>>*Henrik Lundqvist (THU) - 25 saves for 3rd shutout of the season (2nd w/ THU)

>>**Marian Gaborik (THU) - THE 2 goals

>***Anton Volchenkov (THU) - Assist and 4 mark-leaving hits

WOLVES SEND 2 TO WJC

Thunder Bay, Ont- Even with the success of the big club, the Timberwolves' prospect pond is still very well stocked and expected to produce for years to come.

>>>As has been the case for the past couple years, Thunder Bay will be well represented at the 2011 World Junior Championships in Buffalo, New York beginning on Sunday the 26th.

>>>John Ramage (pictured) will don the red, white and blue for the defending gold medalist United States again. The Wisconsin Badger was drafted this past summer in the 6th round, 99th overall by the Timberwolves.

>>>On Sunday, Team USA will open the tournament against Finland where Ramage will defend against fellow 2010 Timberwolves draftee, Erik Haula. The Suomi forward was drafted three spots behind Ramage at 102 in the 6th round. Haula is in his first season at the University of Minnesota.

>>>Timberwolves general manager, Blake Wendt will be in attendence on Sunday to watch first hand two of his late round, high quality prospects.

>>>"We knew what we were getting when we drafted these guys," Wendt said. "Couple of extremely underrated players that are proving their worth with their respective college teams. We're extremely happy with their development and being able to represent their countries is reflective of their talent and work ethic. This is always one the best tournaments to watch, even if you don't have players in it."

MARATHON ROAD TRIP ENDS WITH WIN

Winnipeg, Man- With some major weather issues disrupting travel by flight in Europe, the Thunder Bay Timberwolves were not immune in their efforts to leave Prague after their game against the Piranhas on Monday. The team and their Airbus were stranded in the Czech Republic for six hours longer than they had wanted or expected. Meaning there being any chance of relaxing before their game in Winnipeg on Tuesday were squashed.

>>>"It was frustrating, but what can you do," Timberwolves GM Blake Wendt said after arriving in Manitoba. "We were rushed regardless and this didn't change that."

>>>The Timberwolves arrived in Winnipeg six hours before the puck drop. But you would have never guessed it as in a span of 10 seconds, Patrick Sharp and Marian Gaborik made it 2-0 Thunder Bay in the first period. To help matters, Brian Elliott stopped all 14 shots faced in opening 20 minutes. Elliott got the nod over Henrik Lundqvist who started the last two days.

>>>The Ferrets would notch one in the 2nd, but two more tallies from the Timberwolves closed out the first 40 minutes with a 4-1 lead.

>>>Two goals from Jarret Stoll drew Winnipeg closer in the 3rd, but Ales Hemsky's 8th goal closed the door and the Timberwolves won 5-3.

>>>"I don't think any of us know what the hell happened out there," jokingly said Mike Fisher after the game. "Our focus was completely on hockey. There has been absolutely no time for your mind to be elsewhere."

>>>The Timberwolves have a day off for the short hop across the Boundary Waters to Thunder Bay and will take on the struggling Springfield Homers on Thursday.

>>>

>>>3-STARS

>>>

>>>*Jarret Stoll (WIN) - 2 goals and an assist

>>**Patrick Sharp (THU) - 2 goals (1 power play)

>***Brian Elliott (THU) - 38 saves on 41 shots

WEARY WOLVES SQUEEZE OUT A POINT

Prague, Czech Republic- No time to heal their weary bodies, the Thunder Bay Timberwolves arrived in Prague looking to shake the jet lag and take points with them back to Canada. What they ended up with was splitting the two points at hand due in part to a third period onslaught of three goals for and a late tally from the Piranhas for a 4-4 tie.

>>>Playing the second of three games in three days, the Timberwolves got goals from TJ Oshie (short handed), Patrick Sharp (pictured), John Tavares and Rick Nash who was playing in his first game back in Prague since being acquired eight games ago.

>>>"It was a little weird being on the other side and in the visitors dressing room," Nash said. "Didn't hear too many boos, so I guess they didn't miss me too much."

>>>Like the day prior, the Timberwolves quickly packed up after the game and rushed to their plane for game three in three in Winnipeg.

>>>"It's gone a little bit better than I expected," said Timberwolves GM Blake Wendt. "The everyday routine is obviously non-existent. But I seen everyone sleeping on the flight over, so we seemed to be well rested."

>>>"Yeah, it was a smooth flight over," admitted Sharp. "No weather or turbulance that I noticed, and our plane has all the comforts of home minus it not being home."

>>>Within an hour of the game's conclusion, the club was on their Airbus 330-200 getting set to depart for their 10-hour flight to Winnipeg for tomorrow's game against the Ferrets.

>>>

>>>3-STARS

>>>

>>>*Wojtek Wolski (PRA) - 2 goals

>>**Patrick Sharp (THU) - goal and 2 assists

>***Josh Bailey (PRA) - goal and an assist

HATS OFF TO HEMMER

Thunder Bay, Ont- After having two days off the Timberwolves were looking for a statement-game to start off their grueling 3 games in 3 days schedule. Their first opponent on Sunday was the visiting Linz Black Wings.

>>>Derek Brassard made things difficult early for the Timberwolves when he scored his first goal at 4:50 into the game.

>>>At 10:11 though, and while on the power play, Czech sniper Ales Hemsky (pictured) tied things up for Thunder Bay for his 5th of the season from Carl Gunnarsson and Marc Savard.

>>>Hemsky was not done, and at 11:06 put his club on top. Again from Savard and Gunnarsson. The first period scoring would end there.

>>>"Hemmer (Hemsky) has been sharp in practise and I know I felt it in the warm up that he was going to light it up today," said Marc Savard at the intermission.

>>>The 2nd period started off bleak for the Timberwolves when Linz's Marco Sturm tied things up at 00:59. But Simon Gagne took the lead back at 2:53 for the Quebec-native's 7th of the season from Mike Fisher and Gunnarsson's third assist of the game.

>>>At 09:00, Ales Hemsky netted the 4th hat trick of the season for the Timberwolves (with Marian Gaborik, Mike Fisher and TJ Oshie), from you guessed it... Marc Savard.

>>>Marian Gaborik iced the game at 13:58 in the 2nd for the Slovak's team-leading 17th goal.

>>>The 3rd period would see the Black Wings score twice, but an insurance goal from Gagne finished things off with a 6-4 win for the Timberwolves.

>>>"Thought we did a good job of getting a lead and holding onto it," said Timberwolves coach, Ryan McGill after the game. "They (Linz) initially had the lead and came back once to tie it up. So credit the guys for taking it away from them and taking two points with us. Good win. But it's on to the next one."

>>>The Timberwolves had less than an hour from the final horn to wheels up on their plane for the nearly 9 hour direct flight to the Czech Republic for tomorrows game in Prague against the Piranhas.

>>>Like when they were traded a couple weeks ago, the Timberwolves' Rick Nash and Henrik Lundqvist are once again in a rush. This time going back to Prague for the first time since the deal.

>>>"It'll be nice to see some old friends," said Nash while taking off from Thunder Bay. "But we're heading there to win a hockey game and move on. I'm thrilled to be here with this club."

>>>

>>>3-STARS

>>>

>>>*Ales Hemsky (THU) - Hat trick

>>**Simon Gagne (THU) - 2 goals

>***Carl Gunnarsson (THU) - 3 assists and a +4

HONVED STOPPED BY WOLF PACK

Budapest, Hungary- Looking to feed off a solid thumping of their provincial rival (Niagara Falls; 6-2 win) on Tuesday, the Thunder Bay Timberwolves hopped across the Atlantic to take on the red-hot Budapest Honved on Thursday.

>>>Despite two ill-advised minors in the 1st period by the road club, Budapest could not counter and Thunder Bay turned things around at 18:24 with a nifty shot from Mike Fisher. The Peterborough-native's 16th goal.

>>>The score would remain 1-0 through the opening period and until 6:37 in the second when the Timberwolves, Ales Hemsky (pictured) doubled up the lead with his 4th of the season from Simon Gagne and Erik Johnson.

>>>"It was great to get that goal," summed up Hemsky. "Being up two is huge in this league. It's not comfortable, but with our guy in goal (Lundqvist) it's alot tougher for the opposition to come back. Not to mention Simon and I have been snake bitten lately, and we have really good chemistry. So it's great to get some results."

>>>Henrik Sedin would draw Honved within one goal at 17:05 to close out the first 40 minutes of scoring.

>>>"We didn't sweat that goal (Sedin's) much going into the intermission," said Fisher between periods. "It bounced around and hit alot of sticks and skates before getting in the net. Lundy (Lundqvist) didn't have a chance on it. But we have to respond and not let them get to high on themselves."

>>>The third period saw both clubs jostle for position and in particular the Timberwolves suffocate the defensive zone and not push the puck much into the offensive zone either.

>>>That was until 19:07 when rookie blueliner, Carl Gunnarsson took a chrisp backhand feed from Marc Savard and hammered a shot from the point past a screened Evgeni Nabokov to seal the game for the Timberwolves, 3-1.

>>>One player that although note penciling his name on the scoresheet, made a very visible impact on the game. Marian Gaborik did not score or assist on any of the goals for the Timberwolves. But the Slovak led to the club in shots (6), hits (4) and even laid out the body on a shot block.

>>>"It's great to get that kind of effort out of a guy that's main job is to score goals here," said Timberwolves coach, Ryan McGill. "I'll be the first to say that I'd prefer he stick with the scoring and not engage in the shot blocking though unless absolutely necessary. You cringe when you see a guy like that giving up his body to block shots. But I'm proud more than anything. We all played a very team-first game today."

>>>The Timberwolves will have an extra day off between traveling back to Thunder Bay for Sunday's tilt against the Linz Black Wings. But Sunday's game is the first of three in a row in three days that will be brutal. Immediately after (and alot before) the Linz game, the team will rush to the airport to fly to Prague, Czech Republic for a Monday game, repeat the same hurriedly pace and fly back to Canada for a Tuesday game in Winnipeg.

>>>"The travel will be a nightmare," said Patrick Sharp. "Every team does it, so we're not any different. But it's tough. No matter the accommodations on the plane, some guys just don't sleep very well on it. Those guys will be hurting big time."

>>>

>>>3-STARS

>>>

>>>*Ales Hemsky (THU) - game-winning goal

>>**Henrik Sedin (BUD) - goal

>***Carl Gunnarsson (THU) - goal

ALTERNATE SWEATER UNVEILED

Thunder Bay, ON- So you haven't found that perfect gift for that Timberwolves fan in your family? Well, here you go!

>>>Today the Thunder Bay Timberwolves unveiled their new third jersey for the 2010-11 season. Just in time for fans struggling to complete their holiday shopping.

>>>The updated version of a black-based sweater they've used the past two seasons was released to the public at the hockey club's shop, 'Wolf Den' at Canadian National Gardens. Like the thirds in the past, the Timberwolves announced that they will only be worn on Sunday road games and the occasional home dates. The first of those home games will be this Sunday at CN Gardens against the Linz Black Wings.

THUNDER OUTMATCHED BY HOWL OF WOLVES

Niagara Falls, ON- Coming off an embarassing display of disipline in Quebec that led to the Remparts notching 4 power play tallies and a 5-3 loss, the Timberwolves looked for redemption in Niagara Falls on Tuesday.

>>>Patrick Sharp opened the games scoring with his 11th of the season from TJ Oshie and Mike Fisher at 2:19 into the 1st.

>>>"Getting the first goal was huge for us," remarked Sharp. "We set the tempo and worked into our game."

>>>The Timberwolves game is scoring, and scoring in bunches. At 9:18, Simon Gagne (pictured) doubled things up for Thunder Bay, and Erik Johnson put the road club in a dominating position at 12:54 to score what would end up being the last goal in the 1st period.

>>>With momentum clearly in their corner, rookie, John Tavares netted his 6th of the season at 1:21 into the 2nd period.

>>>Tom Poti broke the ice for the Thunder 1:08 later to make things 4-1. That score would hold through 40 minutes.

>>>Not looking to go down, Mike Ribeiro drew the Thunder within 2 with his 11th while on the power play at 2:16 into the final period.

>>>But the Timberwolves smelled blood and looked to finish off their prey. Mike Fisher got Ribeiro's goal back at 5:14, and Dean McAmmond finished things for the 6-2 win for Thunder Bay.

>>>"Obviously we were more disiplined today and the end result showed that," said Timberwolves GM Blake Wendt. "This was an fine example of the game we play and the game we've so far had alot of success with."

>>>The Timberwolves next game is in Budpest on Thursday against the red-hot Honved.

>>>

>>>3-STARS

>>>

>>>*Simon Gagne (THU) - goal and an assist

>>**Henrik Lundqvist (THU) - 36 saves on 38 shots faced

>***TJ Oshie (THU) - 2 assists and 4 hits

UNDISIPLINED WOLVES LIMP OUT OF QUEBEC

Quebec City, QC- As one of the most disiplined clubs in the CCHL, the Thunder Bay Timberwolves imploded in Quebec and gave up 4 power play goals on 9 attempts.
>>>There is no sugar-coating the performance displayed on Sunday from the Timberwolves. Averaging a little less than 9 minutes in penalties a game, the 21 minutes in offenses for Thunder Bay were by far the largest sum incurred this season, and the usually stout penalty-kill was obviously exhausted after letting in 4 goals.
>>>Despite 2 tallies from Mike Fisher and 9 shots from Patrick Sharp (pictured), the Timberwolves fell in Quebec, 5-3 to the Remparts.
>>>"This isn't our game," said a rather shocked Timberwolves coach, Ryan McGill. "There are a few teams out there that like to chirp. Wouldn't say that the Remparts usually are, but for whatever reason we got involved in the after whistle bull**** that we've skated away from all season. Maybe we bottled too much up and unleashed it out there. All I can say is it better be all out now. Because it cost us the game and 2 points. The next opponent isn't going to be any less abrasive."
>>>The Timberwolves next game is Tuesday in Niagara Falls against the Thunder. Home of arguably the most abrasive, talkative players in the league, Sean Avery.
>>>"We play Niagara like we played Quebec, and we're toast," said alternate captain, Patrick Sharp. "They feed off of teams that retaliate and lose their cool. Disipline is first and foremost. If we can do that, we can beat them at every level of our game."
>>>
>>>3-STARS
>>>
>>>*Lee Stempniak (QUE) - 2 goals and an assist
>>**Jaroslav Halak (QUE) - 38 saves
>***Stephen Weiss (QUE) - Goal and 2 assists

LUNDQVIST STONES REMPARTS

Thunder Bay, ON- Whatever discussion there may have been regarding who would mind the nets for the Thunder Bay Timberwolves, the arrival of Henrik Lundqvist has solidified those in his corner.

>>>Taking a loss in his first game, Lundqvist backstopped his club to victory in his second go around. In his third start in as many Timberwolves' games? Nothing less than a shutout.

>>>One for each crown on the Swedish goaltenders mask, the Timberwolves potted three goals against the Quebec Remparts on Thursday before another capacity crowd and Lundqvist was sharp in stopping all 23 shots taken by Quebec.

>>>"Not much you can negatively take away from a shutout," said Timberwolves GM, Blake Wendt. "Great effort out there and I'm sure Henrik would be the first to acknowledge his teammates for this win and shutout. He made alot of elite saves, but he seen alot of shots too and you can't under estimate the effort to clear those lanes and keep them clear. Great team win today."

>>>The Timberwolves will have Friday off and will travel to Quebec for their first rubber match of the season on Saturday to prepare for Sunday's rematch.

>>>"The Remparts are a proud club who still have a fresh championship banner in their barn," said Wendt. "We fully expect them to make adjustments and be ready to compete come Sunday."

>>>

>>>3-STARS

>>>

>>>*Henrik Lundqvist (THU) - 23 saves on 23 shots for his first shutout in Thunder Bay

>>**TJ Oshie (THU) - Short-handed goal and an assist

>***Anton Volchenkov (THU) - Assist and 5 hits that left marks

WOLVES STORM THUNDER

Thunder Bay, ON- Having taken out Niagara Falls' elite forward, Ilya Kovalchuk early helped. But outstanding games from the Timberwolves solidified a win on Tuesday.

>>>At 9:50 into the first period, Rick Nash notched his first goal for Thunder Bay from Nick Schultz and Marc Savard.

>>>Captain, Keith Ballard made it 2-0 for the Timberwolves at 11:09. The Thunder's Drew Doughty cut the lead in half at 12:36 to close out the first period scoring.

>>>The second period was all Timberwolves as Mike Fisher netted his 12th of the season while on a power play, and bruising blueliner, Douglas Murray scored his 3rd from Fisher and TJ Oshie.

>>>The third period scoring came first from super-pest, Sean Avery. But ended with another tally from Nash and a power play goal from Patrick Sharp to end the game at 6-2 for the Timberwolves.

>>>The Timberwolve next game is Thursday at home against the Quebec Remparts (8-10-2).

>>>

>>>3-STARS

>>>

>>>*Rick Nash (THU) - 2 goals

>>**Douglas Murray (THU) - Goal & an assist, 4 hits

>***Mike Fisher (THU) - Goal & an assist

WOLVES COME UP SHORT IN NASH/LUNDQVIST DEBUT

Thunder Bay, ON- With the very recent acquisition of Rick Nash (pictured) and Henrik Lundqvist, Canadian National Gardens was buzzing on Sunday as the Timberwolves welcomed the Budapest Honved to Thunder Bay.

>>>Rick Nash did not look worn down from the trade and travel and was announced after the morning skate as the 2nd line right-winger. Taking the place of an injured Ales Hemsky.

>>>What was not clear though even after the morning skate was if Lundqvist would be ready to start immediately. Both he and Brian Elliott spent extra time in practise with goaltending coach, Felix Potvin and the typical nod to the media of who starts by who leaves the ice first still wasn't clear when Elliott stepped off first but returned and then Lundqvist led the pair to the dressing room.

>>>But as the warm-up progressed, it became clear that Lundqvist would start.

>>>Lundqvist looked sharp early and some of the butterflies dissipated when Patrick Sharp gave him a small cushion at 8:12 for the Thunder Bay-native's 9th of the season off a break-away goal on Evgeni Nabokov.

>>>Dainius Zubrus tied things up at 16:07 for Honved. A 1-1 score would hold into the first intermission.

>>>"Thought we all played a little tight," said Sharp between periods. "We've been jacked up since Nash and Lundqvist got here. But we have to settle things down and get into a groove of executing our game and keeping them on their heels."

>>>The Timberwolves were not on their 'A' game in the 2nd period. After outshooting Budapest 13-6 in the 1st, Honved countered by outshooting Thunder Bay 13-5. Lundqvist let in one at 7:11 off a hard point shot from Niklas Kronwall.

>>>Thunder Bay lost the lead and the game then as they were unable to counter themselves and Budapest scored a 3rd in the third to finish off the Timberwolves 3-1.

>>>"Obviously not the outcome we wanted," said coach, Ryan McGill. "Thought we played pretty even most of the game. But we gave them too many chances and they made the best of them."

>>>"Felt good to get out there," said Nash. "I was pretty nervous. Probably not this nervous since my first pro game. Of course the end result isn't want we wanted. But it was a nice to one under my belt and start to develop some chemistry with these guys."

>>>"I had my legs and was physically ready to go," said Lundqvist. "But they got some lucky bounces and I gave up a really bad rebound on that first one. Otherwise I felt great and the communication was great."

>>>The Timberwolves next game is Tuesday at home against their provincial-rival, Niagara Falls Thunder.

>>>

>>>3-STARS

>>>

>>>*Niklas Kronwall (BUD) - Game-winning goal

>>**Evgeni Nabokov (BUD) - 1 goal against and 32 saves

>***Patrick Sharp (THU) - Goal

MEET THE NEW GUYS

Thunder Bay, ON- It took a little longer than expected, but the newest Timberwolves arrived in Thunder Bay from the Czech Republic mid-morning on Saturday after first arriving in Montreal to be met by Timberwolves general manager Blake Wendt and captain, Keith Ballard.

>>>With smiles and first handshakes complete, everyone was quick to board the Timberwolves Bombardier private jet and filed a flight plan back to Thunder Bay.

>>>Landing at Thunder Bay International a little more than 90 minutes later, the group was off to Canadian National Gardens to first meet the team and then onto the formal announcement and some questions from the media.

>>>"I'd like to get straight to the subject at hand here today," said Wendt. "If there was ever any question about the direction of this hockey club at this point, we've answered it. The Thunder Bay Timberwolves are on the move up. We are not content with simply making the playoffs. We were already a good club before adding these gentlemen I'm about to introduce to you. But we're exponentially better now by adding these guys to the mix. So with out further delay, it is with great pleasure that we introduce the newest members of the Thunder Bay Timberwolves, Rick Nash, Henrik Lundqvist and Linus Omark.

>>>

>>>"Thank you," said Nash. "This is very exciting to be here and to be apart of an organization that it very much on the way up. After just meeting the team a little bit ago, I know that it's a tight group of guys with alot of talent and a single goal of winning a championship here. That's exciting. I cannot wait to put that sweater on and get out there and truly be apart of this movement and that goal."

>>>"Ricky put it best," said Lundqvist. "It's very exciting to be here. It's kind of numbing right now. To go from being told you've been traded, to packing up only the essentials, saying goodbye to your former team and boarding a plane in a matter of only a couple hours... it's just doesn't seem real right now. This is a class organization and from meeting Mr. Wendt to Keith Ballard and then the rest of the guys. It doesn't take long to know that they are very family-like and serious about winning now and for a long time. Like Ricky said, I'm very excited to get out there and be apart of this."

>>>

>>>Asked whether the new players will be inserted into the lineup immediately (as in tomorrow against Budapest), Wendt left the answer open.

>>>"Well, that's entirely up to these guys. Obviously they want to get out there as they've said. But they have been through alot in the past 10-12 hours. When they finally stop they might realize how exhausted they really are. But we'll go through a skate and see how the warm-up goes and we'll go from there. But I'm just as excited as they are to see them in our sweater."

>>>It was at that point that three blue Timberwolves sweaters were unfolded.

>>>Nash was given #16. A swap of his former #61. It is a club policy that no player wears a number higher than #35.

>>>Lundqvist was given a familiar #30. His number in Prague, but also the same number worn all season by the Timberwolves other goaltender, Brian Elliott. Elliott opted for Jonas Hiller's #1 that he wore at the University of Wisconsin with Hiller's departure in this deal to Prague.

>>>Omark's sweater simply had his last name on the back and no number, as the young Swede will immediately report to Duluth and try to earn a roster spot next season.

WINDS OF CHANGE HOWLING THROUGH T-BAY

Thunder Bay, ON- If there was ever any doubt that the Timberwolves are serious about this season, they have subsided with todays trade news.

>>>With the teams plane arriving in Thunder Bay just before sunset after an extended stay in Austria, the players knew something was up when goaltender, Jonas Hiller was asked to report to the general manager's office before dropping off his gear back at Canadian National Gardens.

>>>Hiller was dealt to Prague along with prospects Louis Leblanc, Magnus Paajarvi, Oliver Ekman-Larsson and a 3rd round draft pick for Rick Nash, Henrik Lundqvist (both pictured) and prospect forward, Linus Omark.

>>>A huge upgrade for the Timberwolves aspirations of going deep into the post-season.

>>>With Nash the Timberwolves get a legitimate power forward with loads of skill and still very young at 26. Add that the club didn't move a current roster player for the Brampton, Ontario-native and jaws are dropping. But the level of prospects sent out were Grade-A. Paajarvi and Ekman-Larsson are likely to crack Prague's roster next season, and Leblanc will soon follow.

>>>In Lundqvist the Timberwolves have a clear-cut #1 goaltender. Brian Elliott should still see plenty of action, but this acquisition signals the end of rotating in net. At 28 years old and a restricted free-agent, King Henrik should be in Thunder Bay to years to come.

>>>Representatives of the Thunder Bay Timberwolves were not made immediately available for interviews. A press conference is scheduled for midday tomorrow at the Canadian National Gardens.

WOLVES CLIP BLACK WINGS ON ROAD

Linz, Austria- Despite a long flight across the Atlantic, the Timberwolves were no worse for the wear against the Linz Black Wings and seem to be warming up again.

>>>Jonas Hiller got the surprise start over Brian Elliott, despite Elliott's win against Prague two days earlier. The Timberwolves coach says that his goaltending decisions come in part in the morning skate.

>>>"With the opportunity we have here with two very capable goalies, I have no issue rotating them game in and game out at this point," said Ryan McGill.

>>>The Swiss netminder made his coach look good early in the game by stopping several quality attempts. Hiller's teammates responded with a goal from captain, Keith Ballard who snuck in from the point to take a crisp pass from Marian Gaborik (pictured) at an open 4-by-6.

>>>The first period scoring would end with that goal. Hiller stopping all 15 he faced.

>>>Marian Gaborik opened the scoring in the second with his 13th on the season from Anton Volchenkov and Matt Duchene while on the power play at 5:28. That goal would also hold through the period, with the Timberwolves up 2-0 going into the final 20 minutes.

>>>The shutout bid for Hiller ended 30 seconds into the third period when Jochen Hecht countered when the Thunder Bay goalie misplayed the puck behind his net and slipped to give the Linz shooter an open net.

>>>Patrick Sharp would get that goal back when at 13:42 the Thunder Bay-native scored his 8th to make it 3-1 Timberwolves. Gaborik would put the visitors up 4-1 a 1:01 later.

>>>A late goal from Linz's Marco Sturm was too little too late and the Thunder Bay Timberwolves headed home with a 4-2 win and a 3-0-2 record in their last five.

>>>"It's great to be clicking again," said Timberwolves defenseman, Erik Johnson. "We really came together on that long road trip a couple weeks ago and have gelled ever since."

>>>The Timberwolves do not play again until Sunday when the Budapest Honved visit Canadian National Gardens. The team will remain in Austria on Thursday for a free day before departing Friday for Canada.

>>>"It's a nice break to relax and do whatever we want," said Mike Fisher. "Plus it's a great place to find some gifts with Christmas just around the corner."

>>>
>>>3-STARS

>>>

>>>*Marian Gaborik (THU) - 2 goals and 2 assists

>>**Patrick Sharp (THU) - Goal and an assist

>***Jonas Hiller (THU) - 34 saves off 36 shots against

WOLVES FIND TOOTHY FISH DELICIOUS

Thunder Bay, ON- After spliting points in the previous two games, the Timberwolves were not looking to share with the visiting Prague Piranhas on Monday.

>>>Former Thunder Bay captain, Joe Thornton made things difficult by scoring two goals within the first eight minutes of the game.

>>>John Tavares (pictured) answered back with the former 1st overall pick's 4th of the young season to draw the Timberwolves within one to close out the opening period.

>>>Antti Miettinen tied things up at 1:25 into the second for Thunder Bay for the Finn's third goal from Mike Fisher and Ales Hemsky.

>>>Prague's Rick Nash took the lead back at 6:26 and put the Timberwolves back on their heels.

>>>"We've struggled recently in holding a lead and pinning our opponents down," said Timberwolves defenseman, Erik Johnson. "This is something that's hard to practise and comes from a collection of inner wills."

>>>That fight-back attitude came in the presense of a thunderous shot from the point off the stick of captain, Keith Ballard to close out the 2nd period with both clubs tied 3-3.

>>>The third period saw the Piranhas take the lead back with a goal from Maxime Talbot at 7:31. But the Timberwolves answered back at 12:29 with Tavares' 2nd goal of the game to bring the hometeam back in it.

>>>Marc Savard would end up netting the game-winner inside the final five minutes with his 4th of the season at 15:05 from Patrick Sharp and TJ Oshie.

>>>"We fought hard in this one," said Timberwolves coach, Ryan McGill. "The guys had alot of fight in them and did what needed to be done to grab those points. We need to have this attitude every game. Whether we're up or down, we need that fight in our game."

>>>The Timberwolves will hit the road for a single game to Linz, Austria on Wednesday to face the Black Wings before returning to Thunder Bay on Friday.

>>>

>>>3-STARS

>>>

>>>*John Tavares (THU) - 2 goals

>>**Marc Savard (THU) - Game-winning goal

>***Joe Thornton (PRA) - 2 goals

BATTLE OF THE BOUNDARY WATERS ENDS IN DRAW

Thunder Bay, ON- For the second game in as many played, the Timberwolves skated away with a single point in the form of a tie.

>>>The Winnipeg Ferrets were in town on Saturday for the first time this season against their foe from across the Boundary Waters and Simeon Varlamov was the difference maker by stopping 50 shots against a very hungry Thunder Bay club.

>>>Things started off bleak for the hometeam as Alex Steen scored a shorthanded tally just 3:28 into the game. Anton Volchenkov answered at 7:03 to draw both clubs even through 20 minutes of play. Varlamov stopping 21 shots.

>>>"We knew we were in for a battle from the way their goaltender was playing," said Timberwolves forward, Mike Fisher. "He was solid from the drop of the puck and lights out."

>>>If the Russian netminder being the heads of the opposition wasn't enough, Alex Burrows was with his 12th and 13th goals in the second period. Along with another from Jussi Jokinen was more than enough to go into the 3rd with the lead. Despite TJ Oshie's 8th while on the power play to make it 4-2 Winnipeg.

>>>One player that didn't player particularly sharp was Timberwolves goalie, Jonas Hiller. The Swiss backstop let in those 3 Ferrets goals off of 6 shots.

>>>Thunder Bay would bring back the lead in the third with goals from Erik Johnson and Marian Gaborik in the first 5 minutes of the third. But at 10:51, Burrows netted the hattrick to bring Winnipeg back. Simon Gagne tied things back up for the Timberwolves at 15:59.

>>>The tie would hold into overtime and through the extras and the Timberwolves were not happy with the single point.

>>>"We faced a red-hot goalie, but still got five past him," said Timberwolves assistant coach, Wes Walz after the game. "You put 55 shots on someone and you expect to be here talking about a win. Quite frankly we didn't match them in net and they have to feel pretty good about leaving here with a point after giving up 5 and getting 5 themselves off of 20 shots." A clear indication that the coaching staff was not happy with the play of Hiller. Expect Brian Elliott to get some net-time after sitting for the last three.

>>>The Timberwolves next game is Monday at home against the Prague Piranhas.

>>>3-STARS

>>>*Alexandre Burrows (WIN) - Hat trick

>>>**Simeon Varlamov (WIN) - 50 saves off of 55 shots against

>>>***Marian Gaborik (THU) - Goal and an assist off of 8 shots on goal

LUCIC TURNS OFF DAYTON'S MUSIC

Thunder Bay, ON- The taste of homecooking and the familiarization of home was just what the doctor ordered for the road weary Timberwolves on Tuesday.

>>>"Ten days on the road, away from family and your fans is tough," said forward, Patrick Sharp before the Timberwolves home tilt against the Dayton Musicmen. "It's great to have that time with just your team and the bonding. But we'd be lying if we said we didn't want to get back to Thunder Bay."

>>>In front of a capacity crowd, the Timberwolves and Musicmen spent the better part of the opening period feeling each other out. Jonas Hiller got the nod in net for Thunder Bay and seemed to have no issues with any of Dayton's 13 shots on goal in the first period.

>>>"It's good to feel the puck early," said Hiller. "It's better to see the puck. The guys did a great job of clearing lanes and helping me out."

>>>The score remained 0-0 after 20 minutes.

>>>The second period was much of the same until 12:38 when Mike Fisher notched his 11th of the season for the Timberwolves from Ales Hemsky and Antti Miettinen.

>>>Carrie Underwood's beau would hold the lone goal through 40 minutes of hockey.

>>>Ryan Malone took an early breakaway on a poor Timberwolves line change and tied things up at 5:38 into the third.

>>>T.J. Oshie took the lead back for the Timberwolves at 9:20 with assists from Milan Lucic (pictured) and John Tavares. Lucic's first Timberwolves point.

>>>Feeding off the momentum and crowd, Lucic took a feed from Tavares and Oshie 22 seconds later for the Vancouver-native's first goal in a Timberwolves sweater to make it 3-1.

>>>The Musicmen would make things interesting with a Josh Bailey goal. But the damage was done and the Timberwolves took their 8th win of the season 3-2.

>>>"We weren't as consistent as we were the first few games of the season," said Timberwolves coach, Ryan McGill after the game. "But we got the win and hopefully we can piece a few more together and get things rolling again." The Timberwolves have not won two in a row since games three and four. This was game 14.

>>>Thunder Bay's next game is back on the road on Thursday for an American Thanksgiving tilt against the Springfield Homers.

>>>

>>>3-STARS

>>>

>>>*Milan Lucic (THU) - Game-winning goal and an assist

>>**TJ Oshie (THU) - Goal and an assist

>***John Tavares (THU) - 2 assists

WOLVES TRAMPLED IN DENMARK

Copenhagen, Denmark- Closing out their long 10-day road trip, the Timberwolves couldn't figure out the upstart Crusaders and limp out of Copenhagen with a 2-2-1 record and a hefty bill on jet fuel.

>>>The Crusaders came out firing on all cylinders. Getting goals from Tuoma Ruutu and Steven Stamkos in the first period.

>>>Thunder Bay would get their one and only goal from Patrick Sharp in the 2nd from Marian Gaborik and Marc Savard.

>>>No momentum was gained, and the regardless of any excuses, the Timberwolves were gassed. Patrick Kane and pair from Marian Hossa was more than enough to finish things off and drop Thunder Bay 5-1.

>>>After the game, the team was quick to get on the bus and to their awaiting plane at the airport.

>>>"The players are not available," said Timberwolves coach, Ryan McGill to the media outside the visitors dressing room. "We didn't show up today and the final score reflected that. We have some things to work on and make some adjustments."

>>>When asked if he knew of any looming trades or even if any of the team's rookies will sit, the annoyed coach paused before answering.

>>>"I'm not getting into anything regarding trades. Blake (Wendt, Timberwolves GM) takes care of all of those things. He has not said anything to me. So no, I don't see that happening. Will any or rookies be scratched? Also, not getting into that. They're struggling along with the rest of our club, so I wouldn't say they're any worse off. You'll know when someone is scratched at game time. Not any sooner. That's the end of questions."

>>>The Timberwolves next game is Tuesday back at the Canadian National Gardens in Thunder Bay against the re-building, Dayton Musicmen.

>>>

>>>3-STARS

>>>

>>>*Marian Hossa (COP) - 2 goals

>>**Steven Stamkos (COP) - Goal and an assist

>***Jonathan Quick (COP) - 37 saves on 38 shots against

GABBY SMOKES FIDEL'S MOON IN CIGARVILLE

Havana, Cuba- Looking to bounce back from a poor performance in Denver, the Thunder Bay Timberwolves headed south to take two points out of Havana.

>>>Things looked bleak early when Thunder Bay-native, Eric Staal opened the scoring for the Moon at :28. Christian Ehrhoff doubled it up at 11:38, and the Timberwolves were behind the ball.

>>>But a pair of goals from Patrick Sharp helped the road weary Wolves draw even to close out the opening frame.

>>>"They came out smoking," said Thunder Bay's Marc Savard during the intermission. "They've got a potent offense that requires your full attention every shift. We didn't match them early, but Sharpie got us back in it." Savard had assists on both of Sharp's goals.

>>>The 2nd period was all Havana. Willie Mitchell took the lead back and the Timberwolves couldn't counter and the Moon took a lead into the final period.

>>>Things got ugly midway through the 3rd when Alex Ovechkin scored two more goals for the Moon in 13 seconds. But Erik Johnson unleashed a bomb for the second time this season to make it 5-4 Havana.

>>>"EJ's (Johnson) goal was huge for us," said Timberwolves captain, Keith Ballard. "Ovechkin's goals should've deflated us. But we never put our heads down and to get a huge goal like that back... it felt like a statement goal."

>>>Marc Savard tied things up at 16:10 from newly recalled Sheldon Souray and Marian Gaborik (pictured). Souray was playing his first game of the season after rookie, Carl Gunnarsson was injured in Denver. Savard's goal would hold and the two clubs went into overtime.

>>>Not looking to split any points, Marian Gaborik took things into his own hands and skated through the Havana defense alone and back handed a shot short-side on Scott Clemmensen to win it 6-5 for the Timberwolves.

>>>"Gabby's been clutch for a long time," said Timberwolves GM, Blake Wendt. "In that situation there's not too many guys out there who would argue against Gaborik having the puck on his stick. I'm thrilled everyday to have him here and in that sweater."

>>>Thunder Bay's long 5-game road trip concludes on Sunday at Copenhagen. A team that is eerily similar in every facet to the Timberwolves. Both clubs sit tied for 3rd overall in the league with 16 points. Both have similarly ranked defenses, and both are seemingly at the same stages of their organizational re-builds and have deep prospect pools.

>>>"There's not many in this league that I respect more in terms of how they've built their team," said Wendt. "Bruce (Niblett, Crusaders GM) has been doing it the right way. He's not only thick with prospects, he's thick with very high-quality prospects. I feel the same way about our overall depth also. So it's natural to respect someone with the same philosophy."

>>>3-STARS

>>>*Marian Gaborik (THU) - Game-winning goal and 2 assists

>>**Alex Ovechkin (HAV) - 2 goals and an assist

>***Patrick Sharp (THU) - 2 goals and an assist

OSHIE'S TRICK IS A WINNER

Hempstead, NY- Coming off of a 1-1 tie to start their 5-game road trip on Saturday against the Victoria Ronin, the Thunder Bay Timberwolves traveled across the continent to New York to take on the Long Island Express on Monday.

>>>Marc Savard opened the scoring for his 2nd of the season from Patrick Sharp and Marian Gaborik at 6:15 to make it 1-0 for the visiting Timberwolves.

>>>The Express would answer the bell with two of their own within 2 minutes of Savard's tally off the sticks of Eric Nystrom and Michael Del Zotto.

>>>But the Timberwolves would explode with goals from Mike Fisher, Antti Miettinen and two from TJ Oshie (pictured) for the horn to close out the 1st period to make it 5-2 Thunder Bay.

>>>Long Island would score first in the 2nd period with a breakaway goal from veteren Kirk Maltby at 2:30.

>>>Timberwolves rookie defenseman, Carl Gunnarsson answered :25 seconds later with his first career goal from Simon Gagne and Nick Schultz.

>>>Express captain, Sidney Crosby had had enough at this point and scored two goals himself within 5 minutes of each other to close out the second period to make it 6-5 Timberwolves.

>>>Less than a minute into the final period, Ryan Callahan tied things up 6-6 at the :50 mark.

>>>TJ Oshie would net the hat trick at 4:31 for his 6th of the season and what would end up being the game-winner as Simon Gagne iced the game for his 3rd on the year and finish off the Express with a 8-6 final.

>>>Next game for the Timberwolves will be in Denver on Wednesday against the Spurs.

>>>

>>>3-STARS

>>>

>>>*TJ Oshie (THU) - 3 goals (Hat trick) off of 3 shots

>>**Sidney Crosby (ISL) - 2 goals and an assist

>***Antti Miettinen (THU) - 1 goal and 2 assists

LONG ROAD TRIP AWAITS STRUGGLING WOLVES

Thunder Bay, ON- After starting the season without a loss in six games, the Thunder Bay Timberwolves have now suffered two in as many games.

>>>Wednesday's loss to the Portland Owls was one of too many early goals against, but a sign of resiliancy by ending it closer than it should have been.

>>>Friday's loss against the Karlstad Killers? Not even close.

>>>Brian Elliott did not look sharp on Wednesday. Thus, Jonas Hiller made his second start of the season against the Killers. The result would not change.

>>>Karlstad opened the scoring and by the end of the first period had the Timberwolves doubled up 2-1. Not a overall bad start for Thunder Bay, but the team as a whole seemed lacking.

>>>In the second period, both teams played a safe game. But Karlstad's Alexander Semin notched another goal for the Killers and it was 3-1 going into the third.

>>>Derek Roy made it 4-1 early into the final period, only to be countered by a Timberwolves goal from Patrick Sharp (pictured) moments later to cut the lead in half. But the momentum of Sharp's goal provided nothing and the Killers would run away with two more goals to finish off Thunder Bay 6-2.

>>>"For whatever reason, and there shouldn't be any, we just weren't in it," said Timberwolves captain, Keith Ballard. "We were well rested, thought the practises and the morning skate went well. All the guys seemed in the zone. But we were not there today. Karlstad is a very good club, don't get me wrong. But we should've been closer than that."

>>>One line in particular that was torn apart by the Killers was Matt Duchene's second line with Simon Gagne and Ales Hemsky, and the third defensive pairing of Nick Schultz and Carl Gunnarsson. All five players were a -4 and the only minus players for the Timberwolves.

>>>"Obviously they got lit up today," said Timberwolves interim head coach, Ryan McGill. "The matchup wasn't in our favour all game and it's disappointing that when they scored it was that group out there. Couple rookies there (Duchene and Gunnarsson), but that's no excuse. We were outplayed, overmatched and got our butts kicked. No time to dwell on it. We move on and prepare for the next one."

>>>The next one is on the road against the Victoria Ronin, who beat the Timberwolves in the pre-season 5-4 in overtime.

>>>Victoria is the first a five game road trip over the next ten days. An excursion that will burn alot of jet fuel. After Victoria, it's on to Long Island, Denver, Havana and then Copenhagen. A logistics nightmare.

>>>"We'll have clean uniforms and extra players sent to Denver for the puddle jumping to the Caribbean and up the hill to Denmark," said Timberwolves GM, Blake Wendt who will not be with the club in Victoria, but will join them on the way to New York and the remainder of the trip.

>>>

>>>3-STARS

>>>

>>>*Alexander Semin (KRL) - 2 goals and an assist

>>>**Peter Regin (KRL) - 1 goal and 2 assists

>>>***Patrick Marleau (KRL)- 1 goal and 2 assists

WOLVES CANNOT OVERCOME OWLS ONSLAUGHT

Thunder Bay, ON- Icing the same lineup that shutout the defending CCHL Cup champs on Monday, the Timberwolves could not overcome an early thumping from the Portland Owls on Wednesday.

>>>The visiting Owls took a 3-0 lead after the first period and added a fourth half way through the second without any response from the unbeaten Wolves.

>>>"To put it lightly, we came out flat," said Thunder Bay centre, Marc Savard. "To put it bluntly, we played like complete sh**."

>>>All was not lost and with a little less than half a game remaining, the Timberwolves awoke with a thunderous point shot from Erik Johnson (pictured). The Bloomington, Minnesota-native's first goal in more than eighteen plus months.

>>>Marian Gaborik cut the Portland lead in half with his eighth of the season at 16:52 in the second. Mike Fisher drew the home team within one at 18:39 to make things intersting going into the final period.

>>>In the third period, the weary Owls played a trap game early. But the nifty Gaborik snuck in deep and recieved a feed from Johnson and beat Ty Conklin to tie things up at 9:37.

>>>But two minutes and two seconds later, Portland took advantage of a poor shift change by the Timberwolves and Joel Ward made it 5-4. That would end up being enough and Thunder Bay suffered their first loss of the season.

>>>"We simply gave up too much without countering," said interim head coach, Ryan McGill. "We showed alot of resilience to even things out. The offense is here. No doubt. But we have to show up early and be more prepared. As the coach, that's my job and we'll be ready the next game."

>>>The Timberwolves next game is Friday against the Karlstad Killers at the Canadian National Gardens. The Killers are coming off a 6-4 loss against the Havana Moon.

>>>

>>>3-STARS

>>>

>>>*Ryan Kesler (POR) - 2 goals and an assist

>>**Erik Johnson (THU) - 1 goal and 2 assists

>***Paul Martin (POR) - 3 assists and a +3

ELLIOTT SHUTS OUT DOMINATING RENS -- WOLVES ONLY UNBEATEN

Thunder Bay, ON- The Timberwolves welcomed the defending CCHL Cup Champions to the Canadian National Gardens on Monday after coming home from a very successful road trip (2-0-1).
>>>The Renegades came out swinging, puting shot after shot on Timberwolves, Brian Elliott. The sophomore goaltender was sharp and looked more determined than he has looked so far this season after taking the starters keys in the pre-season over last season's team MVP, Jonas Hiller.
>>>Despite the visitors efforts, a minor to Nicklas Backstrom proved costly as Thunder Bay would go on top early off the stick of Ales Hemsky with the man-advantage at 1:15 into the first period.
>>>Simon Gagne doubled the score with his second of the season at 1:29 from Hemsky and rookie blueliner, Carl Gunnarsson. The 2-0 would hold going into the first intermission. Elliott stopped all twenty-two shots he faced.
>>>"The Renegades are an explosive team," said Gagne during the break. "Thought we did a good job at opening up all their shots on Ells (Elliott), so he could see most of them. Too many shots, but he did an excellent job and we felt like we could push our game more with having solid goaltending behind us."
>>>At 1:38 into the middle period, River Cities' Jeff Carter took an ill-advised tripping minor and sat for two. With three seconds left on the power play, Marian Gaborik made it 3-0 Timberwolves with his sixth of the season.
>>>Elliott shut the door again, stopping all twelve of the Renegades shots.
>>>The Renegades were getting desperate and taking themselves out of position to makes hits in the third. Shane Doan decided to check Gaborik before the winger took a pass from Marc Savard, and Doan ended up with a interference call at 6:42 into the third.
>>>Like Carter before, Gaborik made Doan pay and again with three seconds left in the man-advantage made it 4-0 Timberwolves at 8:39.
>>>With the game out of reach, River Cities decided to not pull Tim Thomas. But that did not matter much to TJ Oshie who took a break-away in on the former Timberwolves goalie and scored his third of season at 19:59. Something that is not likely to have gone over very well in the Renegades dressing room.
>>>"We preach to these guys to not give up and sit back on anything," said Timberwolves interim head coach, Ryan McGill after the game. "I'm sure they weren't happy with that, but I'm not going to fault our guy for doing what he's being told to do from day one."
>>>The 5-0 shutout is Brian Elliott's first of his career. After facing forty-six shots, the Newmarket, Ontario-native acknowledged it wasn't easy.
>>>"The guys did a great job in front of me and clearing out those shots," said Elliott. "I got lucky a couple times and I didn't see the shot and it just hit me. But otherwise, I clearly seen their shots. That's huge when playing a team like that that unloads alot of shots. This shutout goes to this entire team."
>>>Just across the Boundary Waters in Winnipeg, the Calgary Chinook lost to the Ferrets 3-1. Making the Timberwolves the only unbeaten team in the CCHL at 5-0-1.
>>>The news of this accomplishment was met with not much more than a smile from the Timberwolves players and coaches.
>>>"It's a wonderful start for this hockey club," said Timberwolves GM, Blake Wendt. "It's a very small portion of a long season. But it's a very rewarding small portion. The key is to keep this going for eighty-two games and beyond. We're going to lose eventually. But we have to keep that mentality that we will win every game. Right now we have that mentality."
>>>The Timberwolves next game will be on Wednesday back at CN Gardens against the Portland Owls.
>>>
>>>3-STARS
>>>
>>>*Brian Elliott (THU) - 46 saves in first career shutout
>>**Marian Gaborik (THU) - 2 power play goals
>***Simon Gagne (THU) - 1 goal and an assist