Erie Otters defenseman Mitch Gaulton enters today's game against Plymouth not having earned a shift in the previous four games. Gaulton said coach Robbie Ftorek might not believe he's in game shape, although Gaulton had at least a few shifts in the first 12 games since his return from a year-long rehabilitation of his surgically repaired left elbow. Gaulton is frustrated with his lack of ice time. But he said, "I've just got to work hard and change his mind."
Gaulton earned his first shift of today's game midway through the first period. He was on defense with Brian Shaw, who's subbing for the injured Tyler Hostetter.

– Victor Fernandes