The AHL announced its rosters for the 2023 AHL All-Star Classic on Wednesday, and it came as no surprise to see Matthew Phillips and Dustin Wolf get the nod to represent the Wranglers in Laval, Quebec on Feb. 5-6, joining head coach Mitch Love, who was named as an All-Star coach earlier this month.
For those who have watched the Wranglers this season, one consistent luxury is being able to watch both these guys play the game of hockey. Phillips is an offensive threat every time he's on the ice, with a nose for the net and a crafty set of hands, while Wolf is the epitome of consistency between the pipes.
All-Star Philly
The Calgary-kid Phillips continues to conduct himself with humility, respect and professionalism, and is an integral piece of the leadership group within the locker-room.
He is averaging 1.45 points-per-game this season with 42 (21g, 21a) in 29 games with the Wranglers this season. His 21 tallies are good for tops in the AHL and he currently sits second in overall league scoring at the midway mark of the season.
Since returning to the Wranglers, Phillips has six goals, 12 points in nine games. He registered career point No. 200 on Jan. 10 against the Bakersfield Condors.
Meanwhile, Wolf is worth the price of admission alone.
He's been a fan favourite since arriving in Calgary and has done nothing but give the Wranglers a chance to win every time he's between the pipes.
Wolf went 8-1 in the month of December, with two shutouts, and his efforts were recognized league wide as he was named AHL Goalie of the Month. The 21-year-old backstop was pleased with the nomination but credits his teammates for contributing to his success so far this season.
"I'm feeling good about my game," admits Wolf. "Been in a bit of a groove and the team has been playing well in front of me, so it makes my life easy. We're winning games so it's been fun."
Wolf (21-5-0) leads the league in games played (27), wins (21), shutouts (4), goals-against average (2.12) and minutes-played (1586:12) while sitting second amongst qualified AHL goaltenders in save-percentage (0.930).