Two Predator newcomers will lace up as all-stars tonight (Wednesday) in Markham, at the Ontario Provincial Junior A Hockey League All-Star game.

Sniper Kyle Bonis and defenceman Dan MacIntyre have been selected to the South-East Conference all-star team for tonight's game against the North-West Conference all-stars. Both Predators are in their first year with the club. Their selection to the all-star team is not a surprise because this year's team is full of quality players, says Tim Clayden, Predators hockey operations director.

"We have a close room where our players actually like each other," says Clayden. "Dan and Kyle are quality hockey players on their own that are even better when surrounded by quality teammates."

Bonis leads the Predators in scoring with 40 goals and 27 assists for 67 points, after starting the season in Bancroft. In 30 games with Port Hope, Bonis has scored 18 goals and 15 assists for 33 points. MacIntyre has notched 15 goals and 26 assists for 41 points while patrolling the Port Hope blueline for 44 games this year. 

"I was not really expecting to get picked," says MacIntyre. "I am pretty excited to be going."

"Dan is our experienced 'Steady Eddie' influence on and off the ice and especially in the dressing room each day," explains Clayden.

Goal scorers are hard to find at any level, so adding a quick sniper like Bonis was also a steal for Port Hope, he adds.

"Kyle gives our hockey club another sniper that teams will need to key in on, freeing up more space and time for our other key players come playoff time," notes Clayden.

The all-star game will be held tonight, Wednesday, Jan. 24, at 7:30 p.m., at the Canlan Ice Sports Arena at York University. Opening ceremonies take place at 7:15 p.m.