Brent Regner has turned into the Wolves’ overtime hero, and now he’s officially their captain.
After wearing the ‘C’ on an interim basis this season, Regner on Wednesday was officially named the Wolves’ 10th captain in team history. He has 15 points and a plus-10 rating and has scored twice in OT – Nov. 28 at Rockford and Friday against the Hamilton Bulldogs.
“Brent has a great work ethic and he hates to lose,” coach John Anderson said in a news release. “He even hates to lose the little games we play during practice. I don’t think he has to say a lot to be a great captain. I think his actions speak loudly.”
Regner’s actions have spoken especially loudly in the AHL’s new OT format that’s seven minutes and goes to 3-on-3 at the first whistle with under four minutes to play. Both of his extra-time goals have come less than a minute before a potential shootout.
“I’m just maybe trying to be a little more offensive this year, trying to produce a little bit more. I mean, 3-on-3 it’s pretty fun out there. It’s quite different with the new rules this year,” Regner said Friday. “When you’re a (defenseman), you can really jump up and make it that odd-man rush in overtime and I’m really enjoying it.”
That new format – which has helped keep the Wolves from a single shootout this season – gets a positive review from Regner.
“I personally like it. Seven-minute overtime is pretty long but I think it’s exciting hockey for the fans,” Regner said. “It’s great to see and they still get to see a shootout if nobody scores.”
Regner’s twice made sure that a Wolves game has been decided before a shootout. Anderson has noticed that Regner’s confidence level on offense has grown.
“He wants the puck,” Anderson said Friday. “It’s like a completely different person and we’re really happy to see it.”
