BOISE, Idaho – The Idaho Steelheads (53-10-1-2, 109pts) captured the ECHL’s regular season title for the first time since 2009-10 defeating the Kansas City Mavericks (30-28-6-2, 68pts) by a final score of 1-0 Saturday night at the Idaho Central Arena in front of 5,142 fans. It was the 32nd sellout in the 34th home game including the 31st straight. Idaho will host the Utah Grizzlies next Wednesday and Friday for the final two home games of the season with puck drop at 7:10 p.m.
Adam Scheel made 36 saves for his league leading fifth shutout of the season, his second of the week. He has now won 15 of his last 17 games dating back to January 28. The Steelheads set a franchise record with their 53rd win of the year and tied the most wins on home ice in a single season in league history improving to (30-4) at home.
The Steelheads led 1-0 after the opening 20 minutes of play as Willie Knierim (16th) capitalized on the far side off the crease with Justin Ducharme and Owen Headrick collecting assists. Idaho outshot Kansas City 16-10 in the first period.
A scoreless second period featured seven shots for each team as Idaho had two power-play opportunities but were unable to convert.
Adam Scheel kicked aside all 18 shots he faced in period three picking up a 36 save shutout for his second of the week and his league leading fifth of the season. Shane Starrett made 26 saves on 27 shots in the loss.
With Idaho Steelheads release
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