Shawinigan at Quebec
Preview of QMJHL Game Between Shawinigan and Quebec
QUEBEC CITY, Quebec (Interstat) — The Quebec Remparts will look to avenge a lopsided early-season loss when they host the Shawinigan Cataractes in a Quebec Major Junior Hockey League matchup Sunday at Centre Vidéotron.
The game features two teams hovering near the .500 mark, with Shawinigan (15-12-0) holding a slight edge over Quebec (14-14-0) in the standings. Their previous meeting this season was a one-sided affair, a 7-0 road victory for the Cataractes on Oct. 25.
Shawinigan arrives after a narrow 4-3 home loss to Chicoutimi on Saturday. Forward Dylan Laframboise scored a goal in that defeat and has been a consistent offensive contributor, making him a key player to watch for the visitors. The Cataractes have split their last six games, showing both resilience in close wins and vulnerability in recent road losses.
The Remparts enter with momentum from a decisive 5-1 win over Saint John on Saturday. Defenseman Cal Uens was the standout performer in that victory, posting two goals, an assist and six shots on goal. His offensive surge from the blue line provides a significant boost for Quebec, which had struggled in a 4-1 loss at Chicoutimi on Dec. 5 prior to the Saint John game.
Quebec’s home record has been a mix of strong performances and setbacks, while Shawinigan has shown an ability to win on the road this season. The matchup in goal will be critical, as both teams have allowed goals in bunches during recent losses.
According to Interstat’s game simulator, the contest is projected to be a close one, with a predicted final score of Quebec 4, Shawinigan 3.
Following this game, both teams face a busy holiday schedule. Quebec will host Baie-Comeau for a two-game set on Dec. 17 and 18, while Shawinigan visits Victoriaville on Dec. 17 before hosting Val-d’Or on Dec. 18.
The puck drops at 4 p.m. EST Sunday.