The Monarchs are currently in tied for fourth overall with 60 points. They have played extremely well at home and have scored over 160 goals for, which is comparable to many of the other strong teams in the league. Their goals against is a little high but definitely not enough for concern, especially considering goaltender Travis Scott, who may be somewhat of a suprise since the Monarchs boast two other goalies with NHL experience in Stephane Fiset and Marcel Cousineau. While Fiset has been injured most of the season, Scott, who will suit up for the AHL Canadian All Stars, has won 14 games and recorded a GAA of 2.58.
The Monarchs have a strong mix of veteran talent and youth throughout their line up. Their leading scorer thus far has been Ted Donato with 37 points in 28 games. Donato has scored over 20 goals three times in the NHL and probably could be used by a number of franchises in the league. He also will play in the AHL All Star game but on the PlanetUSA team. Also on forward is Jaroslav Bednar, who the Kings expected to make their roster after taking him in the most recent edition of the NHL draft. He struggled early in North America, but he has settled down as is just below a point-a-game pace with 26 points in 33 games.
The Monarchs also have a good blend on defense. They are led by Rich Brennan who has 16 points in 34 games, however, it is important to recognize Brennan contributes in a number of ways. This is exemplified by the announcement that he will be team captain of the PlanetUSA All Stars. Joe Corvo, a fourth round pick in 1997 and a graduate of Northern Michigan, has stepped up and has 32 points in 52 games, the most of any Monarch defenseman this season.
With the continued improvement of young Monarch players and consistent play from its veternans, the Manchester Monarchs appear to be in good shape for the second half of the American Hockey League season.
