Game Recap: Hat Tricks Grab Point, Fall in Overtime to Prowlers, 3-2

by Wyatt Kopelman

DANBURY — Matt Graham’s goal at 3:21 of overtime gave the Port Huron Prowlers a 3-2 win against the Hat Tricks at the Danbury Ice Arena on Friday. Graham had a goal and an assist in the first of two meetings between the Prowlers and the Hat Tricks this weekend.

Graham emerged from behind the net and roofed the game-winner, his third of the season, stopping Port Huron’s two-game skid. The forward has scored in four straight contests.

Port Huron rallied from a 2-1 deficit in the third period, despite finishing 0-for-7 on the power play. Ludwig Thellstrom'sshot through traffic from the top of the right circle tied the contest at two at 7:44 of the third.

The Hat Tricks erased a 1-0 deficit with two goals in the middle frame to take their first lead of the game. Josh Labelle’ssnapshot from inside the left circle nearly 4 ½ minutes into the second put Danbury on the board. Co-head coach and captain Jonny Ruiz moved the Hat Tricks ahead, 2-1, on the power play at 10:56, scoring in his third straight outing.

The opening frame was high-paced between two sides that faced off for the fourth time in six contests. Port Huron’s Jamie Bucell found open ice on an entry pass from Adam Heinzl to put the Prowlers in the lead at 6:46.

The Hat Tricks’ penalty kill delivered on a cross-checking minor against Josh Labelle at 2:38 of the third. Danbury missed opportunities on the man advantage in the offensive zone with eight minutes left while Thellstrom sat for holding, however.

Conor McCollum turned aside 24 shots but fell to 16-10-4.

The Hat Tricks are 3-1-1-1 in the season series and ended their eight-game win streak on home ice.

Up next, Danbury hosts Port Huron for the final time this season on Saturday. Puck drop is set for 7 p.m.

ABOUT DANBURY HAT TRICKS:

The Danbury Hat Tricks are a professional hockey team based in Danbury, CT and compete in the Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL). Since their founding in 2019, the 2023 Commissioner's Cup Champions have brought thrilling, fast-paced, and hard-hitting hockey to the Danbury Ice Arena, earning a reputation for their competitive spirit, electric atmosphere and strong community ties. The team is dedicated to providing an unforgettable game-day experience for fans of all ages while proudly representing the city of Danbury.

Off the ice, the Hat Tricks are committed to fostering connections within the local community through outreach programs with schools, businesses and charities. By developing top-tier hockey talent and growing the sport in the region, the Hat Tricks aim to bring the community together and deliver entertainment that leaves a lasting impact.

Danbury Hat Tricks single-game tickets and full/partial season membership plans are still available for purchase. If you are interested, email herm@danburyhattricks.com or go to Tixr.

To stay up to date on all things Danbury Hat Tricks hockey, go to danburyhattricks.com and follow the team on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok (@DanburyHatTricks).