The Clippers Connor DeTurris, seen helping out at Teddy Bear Toss night in December, has been on a tremendous run of play recently with ten points in his last six games. (Gary Dorland)

By Dan Marshall

Making an impact

VIDEO: Clippers DeTurris in form with strong play in 2024

Feb 7, 2024 | 9:59 AM

NANAIMO — Clippers forward Connor DeTurris has been thriving offensively the last few weeks.

The first year forward has ten points in his last six games, including four goals. DeTurris said confidence has been a big factor in his strong play.

“I finally feel like I’m back to myself after having surgery in the summer. I’ve played with [Mike] Murtagh and [Luke] Buss for quite awhile and that helped me get my confidence back. I’ve played with [Gabriel] Westling and [Noah] Alvarez lately and was able to make some good plays with them.”

DeTurris scored in both of the Nanaimo’s most recent games at home last weekend, a 6-3 loss against West Kelowna on Friday, Feb. 2 and a 4-2 win versus Powell River the following night.

The 19-year-old wasn’t happy with the start in the West Kelowna game with the team getting down 3-0.

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“I think we didn’t really play to our identity. We came out flatfooted. For our team it wasn’t our best effort but we came back on Saturday night to get the win.”

DeTurris missed the first month of the season recovering from an injury but has been a point per game player in 26 games of action.

He was named an assistant captain immediately but he admits his leadership has grown over time.

“For myself it’s easier to be a leader when you’re on the bench with the guys. I’m comfortable with the guys and we’re like a family. Facing adversity with them every game and trying to be a strong leader that’s what’s important. We’ve gotten closer and that’s made it a lot easier on myself.”

The Clippers have a stiff test in their next game against the Surrey Eagles.

Surrey is in first place in the Coastal Division with the Clippers in the midst of a log jam at the top of the division which sees them placed fourth.

The Clippers and Eagles will play four times in the final 18 games of the year.

“The Surrey game is huge. We’re getting the to the point of the season where every game is like playoff hockey. Our group is looking forward to it. Our team has a lot of confidence. We’re really deep and we have outstanding goaltending. It comes down to us showing up every night, dialing it in and being focused.”

CLIP NOTES:

Nanaimo is in a cluster of four Coastal Division teams within three points in the standings. Alberni Valley has 46 points, Chilliwack 45, the Clippers 44 and Victoria 43.

The Clippers have a heavy mainland schedule the rest of the season with 12 lower mainland opponents, five from Vancouver Island and one game in the Interior Division in Vernon.

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