Zac Funk On Pace To Make History In Prince George
The Prince George Cougars forward is 12 back of the single-season all-time goals record in franchise history.
Photo by Tri-City Americans - Zac Funk On Pace To Make History In Prince GeorgeZac Funk is having a season to remember. The Prince George Cougars' forward currently holds a seven-goal advantage over Jagger Frikus for the league lead and, with 42 on the season, is on pace to smash Quinn Hancock's franchise record of 54 set during the 1997-98 campaign. At this point, it is more of a matter of when, not if, as he sits just 13 goals in his final 24 games to enter the Cougar's record book.
Funk's season has been remarkable for several reasons. Not only is he scoring at just under a goal per game, but he leads the WHL in hat tricks with six. For reference, he entered the season with zero, showing just how dynamic he has become this season. Whether it is an increase in shots or improvements he made during the offseason, Funk continues demonstrating why he is one of the CHL's most dangerous players.
As mentioned, the biggest question is when Funk will hit 55 and establish a new franchise record. Based on his season so far, it very well could come either Feb 19 or 20 when Prince George hosts the Seattle Thunderbirds in a back-to-back at the CN Centre. With five of his six hat tricks coming against the U.S. Division, he may add to that total as the Cougars are set to play the Spokane Chiefs, Wenatchee Wild and Seattle before the 19th.
While setting a franchise record is exciting, Funk's stellar season should help him with his pursuit of a pro contract next year. Currently playing in his final WHL season, he could follow in the footsteps of Arshdeep Bains, Chase Wheatcroft, and James Hamblin, who all translated superb overaged seasons into deals at both the AHL and NHL levels. He deserves a chance somewhere as his combination of strong defensive play as well as work in the offensive zone could translate to a long career at the pro level.
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