Rockets seek redemption

Photo: Marissa Baecker

Courtesy of Kevin Bain

The Kelowna Rockets get ready to close out their three game U.S. road trip Tuesday night in Kennewick, WA when they face off against the Tri-City Americans for the first time this season.

The road trip consisted of three games in four nights. The first two were in Portland on Saturday and Sunday before the team made its way to Kennewick.

On top of that the Rockets played on Friday night at home against the Calgary Hitmen. That's a lot of hockey in a short amount of time, but assistant coach Kris Mallette says his team will be ready to play come Tuesday.

"As a staff in these situations, we try to make sure they get time to recharge with proper rest and nutrition," said Mallette. "After this weekend, we anticipate the boys will come out eager to play well on Tuesday."

The Rockets currently hold on to second place in the B.C. Division with a record of 4-3-1-1 giving them 10 points, two more than the third place Prince George Cougars.

The Americans enter Tuesday with a record of 5-4-0-0 also giving them 10 points, and tying them for second in the U.S. Division along with the Spokane Chiefs, but they hold a game in hand over the Chiefs.

The Rockets are at home again on Friday,and Saturday, when they'll get another crack at the Winterhawks as they host Portland on back-to-back nights at Prospera Place.

"I know our players aren't happy with the results we had this weekend in Portland and I'm certain they'll be ready to play at home," said Mallette.

The Rockets fell 5-4 in overtime and 8-2 in their back-to-back dates in Portland.