WHL Prospects Explode Early in 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Pre-Tournament Play
Cole Reschny and Braeden Cootes led the way as Canada dominated Slovakia in the first exhibition contest of the tournament.
Photo by Kevin Light Photo/Victoria Royals - WHL Prospects Explode Early in 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Pre-Tournament PlayThe 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup in finally underway, and Thursday night had plenty of goals to go around.
Cootes (Seattle Thunderbirds) tallied a goal in the first period to help Canada get out to a 3-0 lead after 20 minutes, and a second along with some Gavin McKenna magic to help lift their team to a 7-1 cushion after 40.
Reschny added one in the third, and Canada skated away with a final score of 10-1.
While not making as big of an impact on the score sheet, Calgary Hitmen blueliner Reese Hamilton made a few key back checks to prevent Slovak chances (one leading to a Canadian goal) and Tri-City Americans prospect Jackson Smith threw his weight around to impose a more physical game.
Canada will play a second exhibition game against Czechia on Saturday, Aug 3 at the Downtown Community Rink in Edmonton, Alta.
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