The combination of star rookie Kirby Dach and leading scorer Cameron Hebig propelled the Saskatoon Blades to a 5-3 win over Lethbridge Tuesday night.
Hebig, 20, scored twice and added a pair of assists while Dach, 16, had a goal to go with his three assists.
“They see the ice and know where to put the puck,” said head coach Dean Brockman on what clicks between the new pairing on the top line.
“They’re very skilled and that makes for a lethal combination.”
Hebig finishes off a pretty play for his 26th of the season to make it 5-3!!
🍏 Dach, Kustra
4:35 | 3rd#RiseWithUs pic.twitter.com/p6tSQSbeYw
— Saskatoon Blades (@BladesHockey) December 13, 2017
Hebig’s second goal gives him 26 through just 30 games this season, matching a career high set in 2015-16.
“He’s a great player and has helped me so much to grow and learn about the league,” Dach said of his new linemate. “He’s a great mentor for me.”
Brad Goethals and Josh Paterson scored the other goals for Saskatoon. Nolan Maier made 28 saves for the win, starting his eleventh straight game.
Maier will likely get a much-needed rest with a busy weekend approaching. The Blades are in Regina Friday, host Kelowna Saturday before welcoming the Pats to Saskatoon on Sunday.
Regular number one goalie Ryan Kubic has also returned from injury, giving coach Brockman an interesting choice with the run of form from his young netminder.
“Absolutely,” Brockman said when asked if Kubic will get a start this weekend. “Nolan is on a roll here but he’s not able to play all three.”