Utah Grizzlies: Outlast Ontario in wild 7-6 overtime tussle

WEST VALLEY CITY — The Utah Grizzlies defeated the Ontario Reign 7-6 in overtime Wednesday night at the E-Center.

Tim Maxwell scored the game-winning goal 3:08 into overtime to cap off five-straight power-play shots by Utah (13-6). Vlady Nikiforov and Ryan Kinasewich

added assists on the game-winning scores.

The Grizzlies built a 5-0 lead after one period, outshooting Ontario 22-2. Matt Clarke starting the scoring 2:57 into the first period on his first pro goal and Utah held the lead until the Reign tied the contest at six with 48 seconds left in regulation.

Ontario scored three goals in a span of 1:43 to make the game go from a 6-3 Utah lead to a 6-6 tie in the final 2:31 of regulation.

Six Grizzlies had multiple-points in the game, while 11 total Utah skaters made it to the scoring column. Ryan Kinasewich led the way with four assists, Vlady Nikiforov had three assists. Dylan Hunter, with two goals, came close to nailing his second hat trick of the year in overtime. Tom May and Vic Bartley also added goals for Utah.

Mitch O'Keefe earned his ninth win of the year in the process.

The Grizzlies host Ontario again Friday at the E-Center at 7:05 p.m. and complete their home stand Saturday against Idaho, again at 7:05 p.m.

The team has also announced that they have traded defenseman Justin DaCosta to Stockton in exchange for future considerations. DaCosta did not play for Utah after being signed last Friday.