Beckman, Hughes spark Chiefs

KENT, Wash. — Adam Beckman had a five-point night — a hat trick and two assists — as the Spokane Chiefs beat the Seattle Thunderbirds 5-2 in Western Hockey League play Saturday night before 4,186 at the ShoWare Center.

Beckman scored the Chiefs’ first three goals — all on the power play — as Spokane finished 3 for 4 with the man advantage.

Post Falls native Bear Hughes assisted on all three of Beckman’s goals, and with 28 points — 11 goals and 17 assists — is the third-leading rookie scorer in the league.

Spokane is now 4-0 vs. Seattle, with three wins in the last 11 days.

Eli Zummack capped the scoring for the Chiefs with an empty netter, giving him a goal in five straight games, and a point in seven straight.

Campbell Arnold had 33 saves in his ninth victory for Spokane, which won its sixth straight game, a season high.

Spokane plays at Everett today at 4.