Eddie Mountain Division 2018-19 Preview & Predictions

It is time for the annual Eddie Mountain Division preview and predictions.

I have rarely been accurate - maybe going 3/5 once since the 2013-14 season. But it sure does create conversation.

1. Columbia Valley Rockies - This has been several years in the brewing for the Rockies. They had great success late last season. They maintained the core of their roster, including five 20 year olds. It's all familiar faces and systems for the Rockies. They have the potential to use that familiarity to build team chemistry and jump to an early season standings lead while the other teams are still getting to know eachother.
2. Kimberley Dynamiters - The defending KIJHL Champions are in tough, they will face every teams top game as they look to down the reigning champs. The Nitro's have nine returning championship players, plus another KI vet to add experience on the blueline. Their three 20 year olds: Derian Bamber, Brandt Bertoia, and Bryce McDonald are ready to take a leadership role for the team.
3. Fernie Ghostriders - The 'Riders have proved to be a resilient team, and they will continue to do so as they wait for their home barn to reopen. You can't minimize the stress that comes with having no place to call home on the players and the coaching staff. They have 12 returning KIJHL players, including four 20 year olds: Tristan Downe, Brendan Nemes, Keelan Saworski, and Zach Larson. They are primed for success, add stability, and they could soar.
4. Creston Valley Thunder Cats - It's amazing how two weeks worth of changes, changes everything. I would have had them listed higher, but as they search for a replacement coach, and then adjust to that coach, it could hamper their standings. They also lost a lot of scoring punch this off-season, and currently have no 20 year olds on their roster. That being said they have 10 returning KIJHL players. Tyler Witzke is prepared to lead the team this season, and Sam Burford looked sensational in the few games he played last season.
5. Golden Rockets - The Rockets are currently going through another rebranding, changing their logo and jersey for the third season in a row. They had a reported 60-80 players at their main camp. Among their currently listed players, they have a total 252 KIJHL games experience. They are a young inexperienced team that is trying to find their identity. They may find it this season, but maybe not in enough time to crack the top four spots.

And there you have it, the 2018-19 Eddie Mountain Division preview and predictions.

Agree or Disagree? Let's discuss!