Chiefs topple Cougars again

PRINCE GEORGE, British Columbia – The Spokane Chiefs scored early and often, topping the Prince George Cougars 6-2 in Western Hockey League play Thursday night.

The Chiefs scored goals on four of their first eight shots, three straight on the power play, to build a 4-1 lead after one period and cruise to the win. It was the second win in as many nights for Spokane over the Cougars.

Spokane (19-13-3-1, 42 points) moved into a three-way tie with Tri-City and idle Seattle for second place in the U.S. Division of the Western Conference with the win. The Chiefs are 7-3 over their last 10 games.

Derek Ryan had two of Spokane’s goals – both in the first period. Michael Grabner added two goals and an assist. The NHL first-round pick has 10 goals in his last nine games, including five in the last two games since Christmas.

Judd Blackwater, who has 10 assists in his last 11 games, had a goal and two assists for the Chiefs. Defenseman Evan Haw had the other Spokane goal.

Kevin Armstrong had 28 saves in net for the Chiefs to earn the win.