Bear Essentials: Crunch Time
Welcome to another instalment of Bear Essentials, sponsored by Genesis Edge Law Group. There were some new import faces in the lineup last weekend for the Sydney Bears; let’s take a look at what happened and what’s to come in the Australian Ice Hockey League (AIHL).
The Bears announced two new import signings late last week; both debuted against the Newcastle Northstars on Saturday. The league-leading Northstars used a four-goal second period to earn a 7-4 victory in a game riddled with penalties.
However, the two new imports made an impact, as import forward Nick Seitz was credited for all four Bears goals, and import blueliner Brett Bamber earned two assists. Lucas Herrmann and Gustav Remler-Jensen each collected a pair of apples as the top line supplied all the offence.
What’s Trending
Prior to Saturday’s game, the Bears had played 16 games with import forwards not named Lucas Herrmann. Those forwards collectively managed four goals in those 16 games. Nick Seitz matched that production in just a single appearance.
That’s excellent news for the Bears. Last week, we looked at how Lucas Herrmann, a natural playmaker, has had to change his game and be the goal scorer. And, to his credit, he’s done a phenomenal job, with 12 goals in 12 games.
However, adding a player like Nick Seitz to Herrmann’s wing, who has elite speed and finishing, makes this Bears team better and allows Herrmann to do what he does best.
As for Bamber, he certainly isn’t shy about heading downhill and getting involved offensively. If the Bears can generate more offence from the blueline without sacrificing too much defensively, they will be in a good spot.
What’s Next
Scott Timmins and the Melbourne Mustangs ride into town this Saturday to the Macquarie Ice Rink. It will be the first time the team faces former Bear Brody Lindal, who leads the Mustangs in goals (11) and is tied for the team lead in points with Timmins and Philippe Caron (24).
The Mustangs last beat the Bears at Macquarie Ice Rink in July 2023. In 2024 the Bears won all four contests between the two teams, including twice at the Macquarie Ice Rink.
With the Bears hanging on to the last finals spot, and the Melbourne Ice, Brisbane Lightning, and Canberra Brave all within three points of the Bears, this feels like a pivotal game.
Make sure you don’t miss your chance to cheer on the team and enjoy the incredible atmosphere by booking your tickets here.
