Dayton’s Dynamic Duo Gettin’ It Done
The Dayton Gems have been off to a solid start this season, and much can be attributed to their key veterans that have been leading the way. The Gems find themselves fourth in the Turner Conference with a record of 8-6-4, totaling 20 points. They sit three points away from the first place spot.
One of the main catalysts this season for Dayton has been in the tag-team duo of Damian Surma and Brett Lutes. These two forwards are tied for the lead on their team in scoring, each with 24 points on the season.
Surma, a native of Lincoln Park, Michigan, has played in 18 games this season, notching 24 points (10g, 14a) and placing him fifth overall in the league leaders. He recently saw his 10-game point streak come to an end on Saturday, as he was pointless for only the second time on the year. Surma has been key on the powerplay however, putting up 4 PPG and notching 8 PPA. Although only have one game-winner, Surma is a large reason the Gems are getting it done this year.
However, Surma would not be where he is without his partner-in-crime, Brett Lutes. Lutes, a native of Riverview, New Brunswick, has played in only 14 games this season and also has 24 points (7g, 17a). He is tied with Surma for fifth place in the league, and also accompanies him at the top on their team. Last Saturday Lutes also saw his 13-game point streak come to an end as he was pointless for the first time this year. Before this past weekend’s game, Lutes had notched a point in every match played. Lutes has been a key contributor to his team when closing out games, as he has record 3 game-winners.
The Gems will try to continue their success as they travel to Evansville this Friday for a close-matched Turner Conference battle.
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