Clippers defeat the Powell River Kings 7-1

#20 Elliot Perreault drops to one knee to block a shot on the net.

By Malcom Cooke

The Nanaimo Clippers powered their way to a dominant 7-1 victory over the Powell River Kings, fueled by a hat trick from Dylan Kinch, two goals from Zakary Savoie, and tallies from Samuel Boisvert and Conner DeTurris. Goaltender Chazz Nixon was stellar between the pipes, making 26 saves to backstop the Clippers to their 6th win this season.

Nanaimo dominates early to set the tone against Powell River. Samuel Boisvert started the scoring, netting his first goal of the season just minutes into the game. Boisvert's tally was set up by linemates Makio Van Tassel and Chase Hull, showcasing crisp passing and strong offensive chemistry. Nanaimo wasted no time doubling their lead. Just a minute later, Zakary Savoie capitalized on a turnover and buried his first career BCHL goal, sending the Clippers’ fans into a frenzy. Powell River’s goaltender was pulled after the quick pair of goals, signalling an early attempt to change momentum. The intensity escalated from there, highlighted by a spirited fight between Anthony Biakabutuka and Rhett Hamilton. Savoie continued his standout performance later in the period, scoring his second of the night on a perfectly executed three-on-one rush. His quick hands and sharp shot gave Nanaimo a 3-0 lead. Leading in shots 13-9 after the first period, the Clippers' efficiency and opportunism set the stage for a dominant start, leaving Powell River searching for answers.

The Nanaimo Clippers carried their momentum into the second period, maintaining control in their matchup against the Powell River Kings. Midway through the period, coincidental minor penalties resulted in four-on-four action. Despite the increased open ice, neither team could capitalize. Shortly after the four-on-four expired, the Clippers earned their first power-play opportunity. However, Powell River's goaltender came up with a highlight-reel glove save to keep the deficit at 3-0. The Kings’ reprieve was short-lived. Dylan Kinch broke through the defence on a breakaway, notching his first goal of the night and extending Nanaimo’s lead to 4-0. Moments later, Powell River took another penalty, giving the Clippers a chance to keep their offensive momentum rolling. On the ensuing power play, Conner DeTurris delivered a well-placed shot to make it 5-0. Nanaimo’s offensive dominance continued late into the period when Kinch struck again, scoring his second goal of the game and pushing the Clippers to an imposing 6-0 lead.

With a commanding advantage on the scoreboard and in gameplay, Nanaimo headed into the third period firmly in control, leaving Powell River searching for a spark. The Clippers faced their first penalty kill early in the third period, with goaltender Chazz Nixon's strong play preserving the shutout. A sharp blocker save highlighted Nixon’s composed play between the pipes. Midway through the period, coincidental penalties once again resulted in stretches of four-on-four hockey. Both teams exchanged chances during the open ice, but Nanaimo’s structured play ensured Powell River couldn’t find any momentum. Shortly after the penalties expired, the Clippers earned their third power-play opportunity of the night. Dylan Kinch continued his stellar performance, completing his hat trick on the man advantage with a perfectly placed shot, pushing Nanaimo’s lead to 7-0. The crowd erupted, celebrating the young forward's breakout night. Emotions flared in the waning moments of the game, Morgan Hackman and Willem Terwood dropped the gloves in a spirited bout, adding some extra intensity to the closing minutes. Nixon’s shutout bid ended with just one second left on the clock, as Powell River managed to sneak a late goal to avoid the shutout. Despite the last-second tally, Nixon's performance stood out, backstopping the Clippers to victory. With contributions from all over the lineup, Nanaimo showcased their depth and dominance, leaving no doubt about their strength heading into the next stretch of games.

Dylan Kinch earned the first star for his stellar four-point performance. Zakary Savoie took home second star. Chazz Nixon was awarded the third star. FortisBC Energy Player of the Game was given to Anthony Biakabutuka for firing up the crowd with his fists.

The Clippers head to Powell River on Sunday for what promises to be a spirited rematch between the two teams. The Clippers return home on Wednesday, November 20th, for a school-day matinee showdown against the Cowichan Valley Capitals. Tickets can be purchased at the Frank Crane box office on game day or at tickets.nanaimoclippers.com.