Sometimes it just isn’t your night. That was certainly the case Friday against the Columbus Mavericks in the United States Premier Hockey League (USPHL).
The Mavericks have struggled this season with 6 wins, 31 losses, and 1 loss. Things were bad, but last night was definitely the lowest point. Facing the league-best 38-2-1 Metro Jets, the Mavericks were 37-1 and allowed a shocking 37 points. This is a mind-boggling loss at any level, let alone in the junior hockey ranks.
— Sickos On Ice (@SickosOnIce) February 17, 2024
However, the Mavericks may have had some kind of intention. After the game, Jets head coach and general manager Justin Quenneville said: issued a statement The Mavericks said they were told to give their all to the game.
“It was brought to our attention that the players of the opposing team had been instructed not to challenge or compete as they had to save themselves for the next game, which is more important in the standings.” said Quenneville. “We pride ourselves on adjusting our schedule against the most difficult opponents and finding teaching opportunities in every game. I talked to the players and staff.
“We take what we do seriously and even if other teams and players on the schedule don’t, that’s their choice. The recent showcase and division games have been great matchups. The game, Columbus chose to protect their players, so I will protect our game by letting everyone know the truth. It is wrong to watch our own players not even try to play. There is no motive. It’s wrong to joke about anything.”
On Friday, the Jets hosted the Columbus Mavericks and picked up two points.
Jets head coach and general manager Justin Quenneville released the following statement after the game:
“It turns out that players from the opposing team were instructed not to challenge or compete… https://t.co/kpWGQOJ7mP
— Matt Prieur 🎤🏁🏎🏒 (@mattprieur) February 17, 2024
The Jets outscored the Mavericks 83-9. Victor Sander led the way with four goals and nine assists. He was one of three Jets to score double-digit points while every skater on the roster scored at least one point.
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