Halifax 21st SuperSailor #24 (S96 Week 3): Xhekajs Middletoe

[LucyXpher 1,409]

The Halifax 21st have continued to stay afloat this season with a record of 6-7-1 this past week.  While they did slide a little in the standings from their position last week, the underlying numbers are still promising for this upstart team with hopes of making noise come playoffs.  Halifax currently ranks 6th overall in the VHLM and last in the Eastern Conference, though that doesn't tell the whole story.  Only one team in the Western Conference currently has more total points than Halifax-- the Mexico City Kings-- who have 52 points to Halifax's 48.  Looking at total goals for and against, the 21st have continued to show well with the 5th ranked goal differential in the league at -4, the 6th most total goals for with 93, but the 3rd fewest against with 97.  Keeping the puck out of the net is one of the key ingredients to success at any level and the 21st have done an admirable job of that, relying heavily on goaltenders Jon Webber III @Webberj and Chad Powers @Big_Dyl.  As the rest of the team continues to improve during the remainder of the season, we could begin to see a slightly more potent offense compliment a capable defense which could vault Halifax into playoff contention, though there are still many factors that hang in the balance.  

 

A supportive teammate, Xhektoe, congratulates Chad Powers...

 

One player in particular who has been a big part of the team's successes this season is Xhekajs Middletoe, our SuperSailor this week.  Xhektoe, the team's captain, was acquired from San Diego in a trade during the offseason. Management was apparently so impressed by his performance during the JST that they made it their mission to go out and acquire the player, and Xhektoe as come as advertised! 

 

He's certainly not lacking in confidence...

 

Though not the biggest player in the world, at 6'0" he and 160lbs he certainly does not shy away from physical play and can be relied upon at both ends of the ice.  With 80 hits, he has the most of any forward currently on Halifax and has also contributed the 2nd most goals on the team with 10 (Ty Duke leads with 15).  Xhektoe has also contributed the 2nd most shots blocked by any 21st forward with 12 so far, demonstrating his willingness to sacrifice for the team. 

 

Xhektoe having his priorities straight...

 

And while his on-ice performance has been solid thus far, he's been an exceptional leader both on and off the ice for Halifax, chatting frequently in the locker room and keeping the vibes positive and fun!  With a relatively full roster, many players have been asked to share ice time for the good of the team and Xhektoe has never once complained about bouncing around the lineup...

 

Okay, maybe he complained once...

 

Since the beginning of the season he's played on every forward line and every special teams combination, really showing his utility as a player to fill any spot on the roster.  Being consistent with development every week has also helped Xhektoe to continue leveling up and improving on the ice. 

 

It's true, he did-- players are now paid bonuses in poutine...

 

All told, I'm hearing that team management is over the moon with the acquisition of Xhekajs Middletoe and his contributions so far.

 

ucy needed a hug that day...

 

He's been exceptional in all facets of the game and he certainly has a presence around the team as captain that is undeniable!

 

a protective captain, but welcoming...

 

 

Congratulations @Xhekajsleftankle on being name our Week 3 SuperSailor! 

 

༻❁༺

Edited Friday at 05:48 PM by ucyXpher

[Big_Dyl 103]

There’s no one more deserving of the title of captain than him, glad I’m on the same team as him