Robb Fenton - Staff Writer

A lot of people wouldn’t blame the Lloydminster Bandits if they were still celebrating one of the best seasons in recent memory, but for the team, it’s back to business.
The team is back on the ice and has been for a few weeks looking to fill some spots, create chemistry and prepare for the defence of their NEAJBHL title.
“I’ve been really impressed. Obviously we have some veterans coming back, but some of the new guys that have come in here look like they’re going to fit in well,” Bandits head coach Joe Young said, Tuesday night. “We don’t want anyone to come in here and do anything spectacular right now. Just stick to the gameplan and let the veterans lead. We had a lot of success from last year, but I’m really happy right now.”
The Bandits lost a few important players from last season’s all-star roster, including captain Todd Palik, Cory Dubyk, Kelley Piecharka and Jamie Sparkes, who scored the winner in the provincial championship game.
Although chemistry plays a big role, Young said he’s not too worried about pairing defencemen together or setting up lines, he just wants to break everyone in, get to know the new players and get back into playing hockey.
The lines and systems will slowly take shape as the Bandits hit the ice more and more.

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