Flames Prospects Jon Gillies, Mark Jankowski Lead Providence to Frozen Four Finals

The Calgary Flames may be going to the playoffs, but at least two prospects are already getting some valuable experience in a tournament of their own. The Providence Friars advanced to the Frozen Four finals with a four to one victory over Omaha. The game was quite one-sided with Providence outshooting Omaha 47 to 25.

Jon Gillies was pivotal for the Friars as he stopped all but one shot on his way to a .960 percent save percentage. Barry Melrose was particularly impressed with his performance calling stating, “He’s too big and too good. He’s like a California Condor.” Gillies has been nothing short of amazing during his college stint posting save percentages of .931, .931 and .929 during his freshman, sophomore and junior seasons. He’s likely to sign with the Flames at conclusion of the tournament leading some to hope that his team would be eliminated.

Mark Jankowski scored the game winner for the Friars and also added an assist. His college career hasn’t exactly been stellar considering the Flames used a first round pick on him in 2012. He has 26 points in 36 games and only seven goals.

The game wasn't short on other Calgary references either. While recapping Providence's previous finals appearance, a two to one loss to R.P.I., Barry Melrose mentioned that he was still playing for Adirondack in the Glens Falls Civic Center. The center currently hosts the Flames A.H.L. affiliate, the Adirondack Flames, and will be home to their E.C.H.L. affiliate next year, the Adirondack Thunder.

by Les Mavus