Cleve Dheensaw/ Times Colonist
OCTOBER 1, 2018 09:41 PM
On a Victoria Grizzlies team known for its offence, with the likes of NHL draft-projected forwards Alex Newhook and Alex Campbell, goaltender Kurtis Chapman has carved out his own piece of the ice.
It’s the small bit in blue directly in front of the net.
Chapman has backstopped the Grizzlies’ four-game winning streak, and for his efforts was named B.C. Hockey League player of the week.
In three games during the week span, Chapman allowed only three goals in 125 shots faced, including a monumental 45-save performance in the Grizzlies’ 6-0 victory over the Mainland Division co-leading Chilliwack Chiefs (7-3) in a Sunday matinée at The Q Centre. The offence came on two goals by Cam Thompson and one each from Jordan Guiney, Jeremie Bucheler, Ryan Nolan and Riley Hughes.
It’s the Grant Fuhr effect: Even great offensive teams, such as the 1980s Edmonton Oilers, need timely goaltending because they leave themselves open for so many counterattacks. Chapman has played the second most minutes in the BCHL this season and leads the league in save percentage at .950 and is second with a 1.75 goals-against average.
“Kurtis loves the game and has found a comfort level here,” said Grizzlies GM and head coach Craig Didmon.
It’s been a journey to get to that zone. The native of Airdrie, Alta., came to the Grizzlies mid-season in 2017-18 from the Calgary Mustangs of the Alberta Junior Hockey League and was a stabilizing influence with Grizzlies regular starter Zack Rose starring with Canada West at the World Junior A Challenge. Chapman later had to cope wth the loss of his best friend, in an Alberta car crash, at the beginning of the BCHL playoffs last spring.
Rose is currently injured and has not played this season, but will provide the Grizzlies with a formidable tandem when he returns. Until then, Chapman has carried the load with aplomb.
“Kutis Chapman is 20 years old and wants to continue playing hockey [in the pros] and is showing he is a dominant goaltender in this league,” said Didmon.
One with WHL experience with the Kootenay Ice.
“We want to reduce the amount of shots we’ve allowed, but we have limited the number of high-chance opportunities. Our defence features good puck possession, with Kurtis Chapman being there when needed,” said Didmon.
Island Division-leading Victoria (6-3) begins its longest road trip of the season Friday in Prince George against the Spruce Kings followed by a game Saturday in Salmon Arm and then Sunday in West Kelowna.
