Troy Kaczynski is back in a big way with the Richmond Sockeyes.
The 20-year-old Richmond Minor product has resumed his career in the Pacific Junior Hockey League on a full-time basis this season and promptly led the Sockeyes to a pair of wins.
Kaczynski had two goals and three assists in Richmond’s 6-1 season-opening win over the Grandview Steelers last Thursday at Minoru and was even better two nights later in North Vancouver — scoring four times and adding an assist in a 6-4 triumph against the hometown Wolfpack.
A frantic third period against North Vancouver saw the hosts tie the game at 4-4 with two goals 2:41 apart, before Kaczynski capped his huge night with a pair, both set-up by line mates Mac Colasimone and rookie Troy Patterson. Tyler Andrews and Quinton Biois had the other Richmond goals. Kurt Russell made 31 saves.
Biois added a pair in the win over Grandview. Jordan Andrews and Paterson also scored.
The Sockeyes visit the Delta Ice Hawks on Tuesday night and return to Minoru Arenas Thursday to host defending PJHL champion Aldergrove Kodiaks at 7 p.m.
Icing…
Last year’s leading scorer and PJHL rookie of the year Johnny Wesley was released by the Vancouver Giants last week. The 17-year-old was then quickly signed by the B.C. Hockey League’s Surrey Eagles.
Two other impressive rookie forwards with the Sockeyes last season have also earned roster spots with BCHL clubs. Local product Jacob Wozney has signed with the Nananimo Clippers, while Ayden MacDonald is with the Vernon Vipers.
