Forward Cody Purves didn’t record any statistics during the Idaho Steelheads’ 5-1 win over the Alaska Aces on Saturday night.

That doesn’t mean coach Hardy Sauter was riding Purves as the 25-year-old played in his 100th contest as a Steelhead.

“He contributes a lot, not necessarily on the scoreboard, but I can tell you he has earned the respect of his teammates,” Sauter said.

Purves has one goal and seven assists in 31 games with the Steelheads this season. More importantly, he’s delivered numerous forechecks, helped out on a ton of penalty kills and brought a reliable presence to the rink every time the Steelheads have taken the ice.

“He comes with the right attitude every night,” Sauter said.

Purves said one of his teammates told him a few days he was closing in on game No. 100.

“It’s a good milestone for me,” said the forward from Hudson Bay, Saskatchewan. “I’m happy, because it was my goal to play at this level. I’m not really looking to go any higher, so to be able to play 100 games here is awesome.”

Purves is more than happy to carry the flag for role players everywhere.

“You need those guys to win, too,” he said. “The only way to get recognition is if we win a championship. We’ve got to do the little things day in and day out … so other guys can do their thing.”

Game notes: Goalie Bryan Hince stopped 34 shots in his first start for Idaho (23-21-5) as the Steelheads earned the big win over rival Alaska (33-13-6). … Saturday’s contest was the final regular season meeting between the two teams. Idaho won seven of nine games to close out the series. … Five Steelheads scored in the win, including Jacob Cepis, who scored his team-leading 18th goal.