While the Vancouver Canucks may be preparing to kiss their playoff hopes goodbye, the Abbotsford Canucks are soaring into the postseason. In a thrilling 6–3 victory against the San Diego Gulls on Wednesday night, April 2, 2025, the Abbotsford Canucks not only extended their remarkable win streak to 11 games but also clinched a coveted spot in the 2025 Calder Cup Playoffs.
The Abbotsford Canucks have been nothing short of unstoppable this season, and their latest performance showcased their resilience and skill. Trailing 3-2 after two periods, the Canucks roared back in the third period, scoring four goals in just ten minutes to secure the decisive win. This triumphant victory marks a franchise record for the longest win streak, breaking their previous record set just a day prior when they defeated the Bakersfield Condors 2-1.
In the first period of Wednesday's game, Dino Kambeitz put the Canucks on the scoreboard first at 10:39. However, the Gulls responded swiftly, tying the game at one with a goal at 18:34. The second period proved challenging for the Canucks, as they were outscored 2-1 and outshot 13-4. Penalty troubles also plagued Abbotsford during this frame, with the team taking two minor penalties, a double-minor, and a 10-minute misconduct. Despite these setbacks, Ty Mueller managed to score a shorthanded goal, demonstrating the Canucks' grit.
As the third period began, the Canucks knew they had to dig deep to turn the game around. Tristen Nielsen set up Kirill Kudryavtsev perfectly at 6:44, tying the game at three. Just 49 seconds later, Akito Hirose scored from the point, giving the Canucks a 4-3 lead. The momentum shifted entirely in Abbotsford's favor, and Max Sasson added a breakaway goal at 11:25, further extending their lead. Finally, Arshdeep Bains sealed the victory with an empty-net goal at 16:55, ensuring the Canucks would emerge victorious.
Nikita Tolopilo was instrumental in goal, making 17 saves to record his 17th win of the season and his fifth consecutive victory. Despite scoring six goals, only five Abbotsford players—Kambeitz, Chase Wouters, Hirose, Kudryavtsev, and Cooper Walker—ended up as positive players in the plus/minus category, showcasing the team's collective effort.
With this win, the Abbotsford Canucks now boast a record of 39-23-2-1, sitting comfortably in third place in the Pacific Division. They are now just one win away from tying the franchise record for total wins, which stands at 40. The Canucks are not only making history themselves but also setting a high bar for future teams, as this is the longest win streak by a Canucks farm team in over a decade. The previous record was held by the Utica Comets, who had a 10-game streak back in 2015.
The excitement doesn't stop here for the Abbotsford Canucks, as they prepare to return home for a weekend doubleheader against the Laval Rocket. The first game will take place on Saturday, April 5, 2025, with a puck drop scheduled for 7 p.m., followed by a second game on Sunday, April 6, 2025, at 4 p.m. Fans are eager to see if their team can continue this impressive run and potentially tie the franchise record for wins.
"Worked hard to earn it, but we’re not stopping here," the Abbotsford Canucks tweeted post-game, underscoring their determination and focus on the playoffs. With their eyes set on the Calder Cup, the Canucks are proving to be a formidable force in the AHL, and their recent performances have only bolstered their confidence as they head into the postseason.
The Vancouver Canucks, on the other hand, are facing a different reality. After a disappointing 5-0 loss to the Seattle Kraken, their playoff hopes are fading fast. As the Abbotsford team celebrates their success, the NHL Canucks must regroup and find a way to finish their season strong as they have just eight games left to prove their worth.
The Abbotsford Canucks' journey this season has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, but their current form is undeniably impressive. As they continue to break records and clinch playoff spots, fans are left wondering just how far this team can go. With a blend of young talent and experienced players, the Canucks are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming Calder Cup Playoffs, and the excitement surrounding their games is palpable.
