Three things that stood out in Ontario Reign’s loss to Stockton

2. Lukas Parik’s first start

Things didn’t get off to a great start for the 20-year-old netminder as Stockton had a power-play just 16 seconds into the game. Despite some good saves early in the power-play, Nick DeSimone’s point shot was tipped in by Tuulola. Not much Parik could do.

The second goal allowed came off of a turnover by the Reign just inside the offensive blueline. Brayden Burke tried to make a pass to Fagemo, but it went off of his skate. Byron Froese picked up the loose puck and fed Phillips, who went in on a breakaway. He flipped it over Parik’s left shoulder.

I should note it was about a minute earlier that Parik had stopped Luke Philip on a partial breakaway with an outstretched left toe.

He didn’t get much help on the third and fourth goals either. The one goal I would have somewhat of an issue with is the overtime goal. The shot from Mackey hit Parik in the glove, but he wasn’t able to catch it. The Heat defenseman was then quick to jump on the rebound and put it home.

Overall, a 41 save night for Parik, who kept the Heat at bay for as long as he could.

It’s worth noting that Matt Villalta was available for this one and dressed as the backup goalie. Depending on the severity of Garret Sparks‘ injury, we could see Parik stick around a bit longer.