Hitmen vs Wheat Kings: Playoff Showdown

0:00The Calgary Hitman face-off against the Brandon Wheat Kings in the first round of the playoffs. The Hitman earned fourth place in the Eastern Conference with 85 points, while the Wheat Kings finished fifth, just three points back. Both teams were neck and neck all season, setting up a tight series. This matchup highlights the Hitman's young roster, which exceeded expectations during the regular year. Veterans like Ford, Harrison, Lodewike, bring experience to the mix, and the team feels evenly matched against their opponents. Players express strong confidence heading in. Captain Axel Hurdick stresses controlling their own game and sticking to solid preparation. They plan to play tough defense and jump on any opponent errors. The series follows a 2-3-2 format, with games 3, 4, and 5 shifting to Verdun, Manitoba, because of a rodeo in Brandon. Coach Dustin Friesen sees the smaller rink as a fresh challenge that could create an electric atmosphere on the road. The action kicks off with the first two games at the Scotiabank Saddle Dome on Friday and Sunday nights, both at 7pm for Lodewike in his final.

1:04Western Hockey League season, it's all about chasing a deep run and ending on a high note. That wraps up Vancouver News today, brought to you with AI.