The Abbotsford Heat play their final two home games of 2012 this weekend, as they host the Texas Stars on Friday and Saturday night at the Abbotsford Entertainment and Sports Centre (AESC). Friday night’s game is the annual “Teddy Bear Toss” to benefit the Abbotsford Christmas Bureau, and Saturday’s game will be televised nationally on Sportsnet One.

Troy G. Ward’s team is fresh off a two-game road trip that saw a 3-2 win on Sunday in Toronto and a 3-2 shootout loss on Tuesday in Rochester. Earning three of a possible four points on the road trip, the Heat remain in top spot in the AHL with 34 points in 24 games and lead the North Division by seven points.

Barry Brust extended his undefeated streak in regulation to nine games in the 3-2 shootout loss in Rochester on Tuesday. Brust and fellow goaltender Danny Taylor have the top two goals against averages (GAA) in the league, at 1.20 and 1.69 respectively. The Heat have allowed the fewest goals against in the AHL, averaging only 2.00 per game.

Abbotsford beat Texas 1-0 in overtime in their only prior meeting this season on November 23rd. Chris Breen ended a scoreless game just eight seconds into overtime with his second goal of the season, and Danny Taylor earned his second shutout of the season.

The Stars arrive in Abbotsford on a four game point streak, and have collected six wins in eight games since their overtime loss against of the Heat. The Stars have been led between the pipes by 28-year-old Swede Christopher Nilstorp, who is ranked seventh in GAA in the AHL, and has posted two shutouts in 17 starts.

This weekend’s series features a holiday 2-for-1 deal. When fans purchase a ticket for Friday’s “Teddy Bear Toss” game, they also receive a ticket to Saturday’s game. If fans cannot attend the December 15th game, they can donate their ticket to the United Way and give a Christmas outing to a family in need. For tickets please call 1-877-452-HEAT(4328) or visit us online at www.abbotsfordheat.com.