December 28, 2023
Phantoms rookie forward Jacob Gaucher scored his first career AHL goal in Wednesday’s win against Utica. Last year with the Reading Royals of the ECHL, he racked up 22 goals and 39 assists for 61 points in his first season of professional hockey.
(On scoring his first AHL goal) “It felt good, it’s been a while. I think I needed the Christmas break to get back and work. You know, I felt good.”
(On his role and playing with more confidence) “I know my role on the team. I think I’m good on face-offs and penalty kill. Today, getting a goal was a bonus, and yeah it felt good.”
(On the overall team effort) “Yeah, we didn’t break. I think we fought through at the end. The guys made big block shots and chip outs. Just a team win and yeah, it felt good.
(Follow-up on what this team is “made out of”) “Yeah, we play north, we try to play behind their defensemen. We’re a big team, physical, and we can skate. I think that’s how we got the win tonight.”
(On tonight’s game following the break) “It’s huge. I think there’s a bit of rust off the start. I mean, it’s always like that the first game back from Christmas. But there are (now) two big games at home. Once again, Hershey, good divisional games. Some big points at the table and we’ll be ready.”
(On his adjustment to playing in the AHL) “I feel better. Honestly, I think it was a tough start for me, but confidence level is getting higher, and I think I’ve been (playing) well recently. I try to do my best to help the team win.”
(On the 4th line’s effort this season) “Yeah, I think we’re good on the forecheck. We try to, like I said, play behind those Ds, good sticks, bring pucks to the net, and try not to get scored on. Bring some energy to the team, and I think it helped tonight.”
