Engel, Chiefs blank 'Tips

SPOKANE - Mac Engel recorded 18 saves for his first Western Hockey League shutout and the Spokane Chiefs beat the Everett Silvertips 3-0 on Wednesday night in front of 3,758 at the Spokane Arena.

Engel started in place of James Reid, who was injured in Sunday's loss at Portland. Reid's playing status will be evaluated again this week.

Matt Marantz broke a scoreless tie 4:56 into the second period to give Spokane a 1-0 lead. Jared Cowen and Levko Koper added goals for Spokane, which trails Portland by three points for first place in the U.S. Division.

Spokane (30-12-4-2, 66 points) hosts Chilliwack on Friday at the Spokane Arena.