Preview: Tri-City Americans at Vancouver Giants

LANGLEY, British Columbia (Interstat) — The Vancouver Giants will look to halt a recent slide and avenge two earlier losses to the Tri-City Americans when the Western Hockey League rivals meet Friday at Langley Events Centre.

The Giants (16-24-0) return home after a 1-2 road trip, most recently falling 5-4 at Portland on Saturday. Their offense will lean on hot-scoring winger Cameron Schmidt, who has seven goals and three assists in his last five games, including a two-goal, one-assist performance in that Portland loss.

Conversely, the visiting Americans (20-16-0) aim to rebound from a 5-1 defeat in Victoria last Sunday. Tri-City has won both previous meetings this season: 5-2 at home on Nov. 7 and 4-3 in overtime here on Nov. 22.

Defenseman Charlie Elick is a key player to watch for Tri-City. While held off the scoresheet in his last two outings, the blueliner contributes steady minutes and offensive-zone pressure.

Vancouver’s form has been inconsistent, with just three wins in their last 10 contests. Goaltending duties may fall to Kelton Pyne, who relieved starter Burke Hood in the last game, saving 11 of 13 shots.

Tri-City has been stronger on the road lately, winning four of their last six away from home, but carries the memory of Sunday’s lopsided loss into this matchup.

The game opens a critical weekend for both clubs. Vancouver hosts Wenatchee on Saturday, while Tri-City returns home to face Moose Jaw.

Puck drop is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. PST.