2021-22
Record: 16-3-1 46pts
Playoffs: Lost in Semi-Finals
Key Losses
Mikyla Grant-Mentis, F
Stephanie Sucharda, D
Maegan Beres, F
Key Additions
Carly Jackson, G
Brittany Howard, F
Tereza Vanisova, F
2022-23 Preview
3 Questions:
How deep can the Six go?
Ever since entering the league, the Six have always been a good regular season team. In their inaugural season, the finished as regular season champions. Last season, they finished in second place (by 1 point) during the regular season behind the Connecticut Whale. Heading into the playoffs, you would expect a deep run to the finals. However, the Six have been hard done in the playoffs. Losing in the semifinals, both times to the eventual champion Boston Pride. You can tell that the players are well coached and the talent is there. Will the third time be the charm, and they finally breakthrough to earn their first trip to the Isobel Cup Finals? Only time will tell, but on paper, they look primed to accomplish it.
Who will replace the scoring loss of Grant-Mentis?
Mikyla Grant_Mentis scored 30 points last season, this led the team. She also led the team in goals, with 13 of them. Now, she has signed to play for the Buffalo Beauts. Good news for the Six is, five of their double digit scorers last season are still on the roster, heading into the season. It will be interesting to see who steps up for the team. The Six have added a couple of nice pieces this offseason, Brittany Howard being one of them. The PWHPA veteran and CWHL alum has been a proven goal scorer throughout her career, and I see no reason why that won’t continue. Another key piece is Tereza Vanisova, an excellent player at the SDHL level. A player that also has PHF/NWHL experience, and international experience for the Czechia. I expect these two additions to help bridge the gap from the loss of Grant-Mentis.
How will the goalies split starts?
It’s an interesting question, considering both goalies have been starters in the league. Elaine Chuli has been THE starter for the Six. While Carly Jackson was the starter for the Buffalo Beauts. To me, the unquestioned starter for the Six has to be Chuli, and her numbers speak for themselves. She has a record of 20-2-0 with 3 shutouts, a GAA of 1.77 and a .932 save percentage (Holy moly.) Last season, Chuli started 17 games, and the only question that I would have would be are the Six going to lean on her to make that many starts again? Or will they decide that Jackson should earn some of those starts, so they can ease the burden off Chuli and give her some rest time when playoffs start? It will be very interesting to see what the head coach decides on playing time for both goalies.
TXHT may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through Cool Hockey and Dr. Squatch ads/links in this article.
The Xperience Hockey Talk 