Season Preview

Brockville, Ont. —

General manager Dustin Traylen and co. will be hoping that en-masse changes this summer will lead to better results for the Brockville Braves.

High-octane addition Phil Gilmour is the new poster player for a Braves team in search of more offensive power and exciting hockey.

The organization made a coup in placing former NHLer Jesse Winchester behind the bench; the 33 year-old played in the NHL as recently as 2013-14.


BROCKVILLE BRAVES

2016-17: 33-26-3 (6th, first-round loss to Ottawa [4-1])

Key Losses: F Corey Caruso (Mercyhurst, NCAA-I), D Sean Allen (Hamilton, NCAA-III), G Henry Johnson (Bemidji St., NCAA-I)

Key Additions: F Phil Gilmour (Hebron, Prep), F Eric Holland (Aurora, OJHL)

Style of Play: “I’m hoping we can bring a lot of speed. Everything we do is going to be built around attacking and having a really fast mentality. We have the horses, so hopefully we can be consistent and bring an exciting style of game.”

Season Goal: “I was told to ice a more competitive team than last year. The message that was sent to me was we need to have a team that’s focused on small details and committed to getting better every day. I’m here to establish a very strong work ethic, and bring some of my pro experience to the junior level.”

Training Camp: “We ran with scrimmages and then two exhibition games, (and) I’ve been pleased with the way the guys have competed for the most part. I think we had two decent exhibition games, but I told them not to get ahead of themselves: The games will get tougher and more demanding, so we have an eyes-forward approach. I’m excited about where we’re going.” — Head Coach Jesse Winchester