The South Shore Lumberjacks return to home ice Saturday night, looking to extend their undefeated start to the season when they face the East Hants Penguins at the LCLC.
The Jacks remain unbeaten, but East Hants sits just ahead of them in the standings, having played two more games. Puck drop is set for 7 p.m.
Team captain Leo MacLean says the group’s early success comes down to chemistry and commitment in the locker room. “We have a great group of guys and we’re all gelling together really well,” he said. “That’s just transitioning really well onto the ice.”
MacLean says the team entered the season with a clear plan — to play fast and stay disciplined. “We just really wanted to focus on playing with speed and to our level,” he said. “If we can do that, no team can really keep up in this league.”
The Lumberjacks have been strong offensively through their opening stretch, regularly putting up five or more goals per game. MacLean says the team’s now aiming to tighten up on the other end. “You’re always happy to score more than five, but moving forward the main goal is to limit the amount of goals coming in,” he said. “If you do that, most times you’re going to win.”
The Jacks opened the season with several road games before their first home appearance, something MacLean says helped the team come together. “It was a good bus trip to really get to know a few guys,” he said. “Even for me, being new to the team, those trips helped us bond before getting back home and seeing all the fans.”
Looking ahead, MacLean says the team’s mindset remains simple — keep stacking wins and push for a top playoff spot. “The main goal is to see ourselves in a top position and go on a deep playoff run,” he said. “Hopefully, we can win the entire league.”
The Lumberjacks and Penguins face off at 7 p.m. Saturday at the LCLC in Bridgewater.
