The Solar Bears are coming to the GTA this week to play a three game series against the Brampton Beast. We're going full Bear on this one, folks! The Solar Bears will be wearing special Maple Leafs inspired jerseys for the series, which we will reveal here tomorrow at 1:00PM! In the mean time, here is what else is happening in the world of hockey.

Toronto Marlies come close in loss to Utica Comets - PPP
"The Marlies were outplayed by the Comets through 40 minutes, but Sheldon Keefe's troops came out firing for the third period. They won the final 20 minutes of the game: they came back to tie things up at 4 before Darren Archibald's game winning goal with just over one minute left in the game."

Mirtle: It’s long past time fighting was knocked out of junior hockey - Globe and Mail
"Last week’s story on Robert Frid – a former London Knight and long-time minor-league enforcer who is disabled at 41 due to the many head injuries he suffered – resonated more than anything I have written in years. We received a flood of e-mails and comments, including dozens from readers wanting to donate to help Frid, whose only income is $700 a month in government disability."

Zac Rinaldo suspended indefinitely for head hit - Stanley Cup of Chowder
"Different league, same result. In his first game after being suspended for 5 games because of an illegal check to the head, Zac Rinaldo continued where he left off, with another hit to the head, this time on Kane Lafranchise."

The Selke Race: Does Anze Kopitar Deserve It? - Jewels From The Crown
"If the question is "Will Anze Kopitar finally win the Selke?" then I think the answer is no. However, with a little less than 20 games left, he has a shot. A strong finish and a Kings' division win would be significant boosts to his profile."

Seen & Heard – Weekend Edition Toronto Sports Media Blog
Go here for a great interview with Dave Shoalts on the ratings battle between Rogers and TSN; what is happening with Jay and Dan; and how much ratings and financial trouble TorStar is really facing.

VIDEO: The 2016 Minnesota State High School All Hockey Hair Team - Barry Melrose Rocks
Of course, Bary Melrose is going to appreciate good hockey hair.

Once again, this weekend saw several controversial incidents of goals being upheld or overturned on an offside challenge. An especially complicated review happened at the Wild-Blues game.

From The Branches