A big second period sent the Portland Winterhawks on their way to a 9-2 victory over the visiting Prince George Cougars on Friday in their Western Hockey League season opener at the Moda Center.
Oliver Bjorkstrand had a goal and four assists, and Chase De Leo and Presten Kopeck each had two goals and one assist. Nic Petan had a goal and three assists. Defensemen Layne Viveiros, Garrett Haar and Adam Cederholm also scored goals.
A crowd of 9,139 fans helped the Winterhawks celebrate their 2013 WHL championship. Prior to the game, banners were raised recognizing the 2012-13 team as the WHL champions, scholastic team of the year, U.S. Division champions and regular-season champions.
Portland scored on five of eight power plays and killed off both Prince George power plays. Winterhawks goalie Brendan Burke made 29 saves in the win.
