Can't-Miss Games: Week Eleven
Heading into another exciting weekend of OHL action we are back with another set of three can't-miss games for week 11!
As a reminder, can't-miss games are categorized as games that feature unique storylines, matchups or an intriguing aspect that can only be found in that specific game.
To shake things up, we decided that this week's can't-miss games would all feature East vs West matchups. There are a couple of reasons for this. Firstly, with over a third of the season finished there are now established hierarchies in each Conference. The cross-conference matchups give us an opportunity to gauge the overall strength of each Conference. Also, it's just entertaining to see teams that don't play each other as often go head-to-head.
With the background out of the way here are three can't-miss games going on during week 11 of the OHL season.
Oshawa Generals @ London Knights - Friday, Dec. 6, 7:00 p.m.
It took until week 11, but we finally have the first meeting between last year's finalists Oshawa and London. Enough said...
Ok, that's not quite all. During last week's edition of can't-miss games, we listed why all London Knight's games should be watched. They still apply.
Related: Can't-Miss Games: Week Ten
The Generals also bring their fair share of intrigue to this game. Beckett Sennecke followed up his exclusion from Canada's WJC camp roster with a five-point game against the Ottawa 67's. The team has won four of their last five games and has scored 16 goals in their last two games.
Will we see London tear apart Oshawa as they did during last year's playoffs or will Oshawa keep things rolling by taking down a Knight's squad looking to win their 20th consecutive game?
Related: OHL Leads The Way With 16 Players Named to WJC Camp Roster
Erie Otters @ Sudbury Wolves - Friday, Dec. 6, 7:05 p.m.
There is a slight Jekyl and Hyde quality to the Erie Otters this year. On the good nights, they can eviscerate other teams like they did in their 9-3 win over Niagara or their 4-0 win over Barrie. However, they can also struggle at times losing 7-4 to Guelph or getting shutout 4-0 by Kitchener.
They currently sit fourth in the Western Conference at the pivot point between the elite teams and those looking to climb. A win against Sudbury would put some distance between them and the teams nipping at their heels.
Sudbury started the year working through the drama surrounding San Jose Sharks prospect Quentin Musty. The elite forward demanded a trade and sat out to start the season. However, he started playing in November and things appear to have settled down.
Sudbury has been consistent throughout the year playing strong hockey. They sit fifth in the Eastern Conference. A win would tie them for fourth with Niagara.
This should be a fun matchup between two middle-of-the-pack teams trying to differentiate themselves from the rest of the group.
Guelph Storm @Peterborough Petes - Sunday, Dec. 8, 2:05 p.m.
This one is a battle of the basement. Both teams sit at the bottom of their respective Conferences and have struggled to come up with wins this season.
In Peterborough's case, this is because they went all in two years ago and won a championship. The rebuilding process can be painful and Peterborough has a very young team.
Related: Jett Luchanko Signs Entry-Level Contract With Philadelphia
The improvement is tangible in Peterborough. They now have three wins that all come in the month of November. They also have a handful of shootout losses during the month. Despite their youth, the team still plays the gritty hardworking style common in Peterborough teams.
Guelph is a different kettle of fish. They have some players who are showing tons of ability. Notably, Philadelphia Flyers prospect Jett Luchanko and Washington Capitals prospect Cam Allen were both invited to Canada's WJC camp. Despite this, they have struggled to string wins together. They've shown lots of scoring ability and November has certainly been an improved month for the team.
Which of these two will take home two points?