Hager with plenty of Nuremberg experience
Hager has even made 954 appearances in the German Ice Hockey League. The 36-year-old made 60 of them against Nuremberg. None of his teammates played anywhere near as often against the Ice Tigers as Hager, whose 42 scoring points against the Franconians are also a team record. Although the captain missed the only duel this season, the Red Bulls won 4:0. On Thursday, coach Max Kaltenhauser's team - this time with Hager - will be looking for their second win of the season.
Ice Tigers outstanding on the power play
For that to succeed, we should stay away from the penalty box, among other things. Because the Ice Tigers have been playing in their own league on the powerplay since the beginning of November. Coach Mitch O'Keefe's charges have used 47.1 percent of their overtime situations (eight out of 17). That is by far the best rate of all DEL teams. Their position in the table can't quite keep up. The Ice Tigers are currently on course for the 1st playoff round. The fact that it is not enough for more is mainly due to the defense. 77 goals conceded is the weakest figure in the league.
DEL top scorer Barratt makes a guest appearance at the SAP Garden
In terms of offense, however, Nuremberg doesn't have to hide from anyone. 63 goals in 21 games - an average of exactly three goals per game - is something to be proud of. Evan Barratt has played a big part in this. The 25-year-old Canadian is playing an outstanding season. With 29 goals in 20 games, he leads the DEL scoring charts.
Barratt has only failed to score in five games this season, including his first meeting with our team.