Hawks’ ‘Cheap Shot’ Upsets Chiefs Coach Broken Thumb Leaves Veteran Questionable For Whl Opener

The Spokane Chiefs were still bristling Monday over an incident that has temporarily cost them veteran defenseman Joel Boschman.

Boschman suffered a broken thumb in Sunday night’s 4-3 exhibition loss to the Portland Winter Hawks at Eagles Ice-A-Rena.

“We’re hoping he can play in the regular-season opener,” Chiefs coach Mike Babcock said.

Boschman will be held out of this weekend’s four-team exhibition tournament in Tri-City.

The Chiefs say Boschman was intentionally slashed by Portland’s Marty Standish after he had lost the glove on his right hand, while the Chiefs were attempting to clear their zone.

“After he (Standish) two-hands him (Boschman), Bosch can’t get off the ice and we’re called for too many men on the ice,” Babcock said. “I’m yappin’ (at referee Colin Rasmussen) because he missed the (slashing) call and we get another one (a minor for unsportsmanlike conduct).”

Babcock said he was upset because the officials’ primary job is to protect players. “That’s what you’re there for,” he said.

Boschman underwent surgery to remove the thumbnail and stitch up the nail holder, the coach said. Babcock didn’t comment on the nature or severity of the break, other than to say it’s hoped the 20-year-old defenseman will be available for the Sept. 27 opener at home with Tri-City.

The Chiefs made a roster move Monday, releasing 18-year-old defenseman Jamie Pryor.

, DataTimes