The BCHL playoffs are heating up as teams battle fiercely for advancement in the postseason. The Trail Smoke Eaters and Cranbrook Bucks are set to clash tonight in Cranbrook, with their first-round series tied at one game apiece. After two intense matchups at Cominco Arena, both teams are eager to secure a pivotal victory in this best-of-seven series.
In the series opener on Friday, April 4, 2025, the Bucks pulled off a thrilling comeback, overcoming a 2-0 deficit in the third period to win 3-2 in overtime. Rasmus Svartstrom, who led the league in regular-season goals with 46, was instrumental in this victory, scoring a crucial goal that extended his impressive postseason streak. The following night, the Smoke Eaters responded emphatically, dominating the Bucks with a commanding 5-1 victory, fueled by a three-goal third period that showcased their offensive prowess.
Trail's goaltender Teagan Kendrick has been a standout performer throughout the series, boasting a series save percentage of .922 and a goals-against average of 1.87. Kendrick's remarkable performances in the regular season, where he made 37, 40, and 44 saves in three games against Cranbrook, have given the Smoke Eaters confidence heading into tonight's game. On the other hand, Cranbrook's Jaden Cholette has a goals-against average of 2.84 and a save percentage of .895, which the Bucks will need to improve if they hope to reclaim momentum.
As the series shifts to Cranbrook, both teams are aware of the stakes. The Bucks' Rasmus Svartstrom has scored in both playoff games and has now netted nine goals in eight games against Trail, marking his 19-game point streak. Teammate Patrick Murphy leads the season series with three points, while the Smoke Eaters' Brayden Sinclair, Cade De St. Hubert, and Jack Kennedy have each contributed a goal and an assist. The physicality of the series has been evident, with Trail's captain Ridge Dawson leading the charge with aggressive plays and body checks.
Game time for tonight's matchup is set for 6 p.m. PDT, and fans can catch the action live on Mixlr or FloHockey. Game five will return to Trail on Friday, April 11, 2025, where tickets are still available for those eager to witness this thrilling playoff series.
Meanwhile, the Brooks Bandits are engaged in their own BCHL playoff battle against the West Kelowna Warriors, with the series also tied at one game apiece. After a disappointing 4-2 loss in game one on Friday, April 4, the Bandits rebounded spectacularly with an 8-2 win in game two on Saturday, April 5. This victory highlighted the Bandits' offensive capabilities and set the stage for the upcoming games.
Games three and four will take place in West Kelowna on Tuesday, April 8, and Wednesday, April 9, both starting at 8 p.m. each night. The Bandits, led by former Medicine Hat Tigers netminder Zach Zahara, are looking to capitalize on the momentum gained from their decisive game two win. Game five will return to Brooks on Friday, April 11, 2025, adding further excitement to this competitive series.
In the Coastal Conference Semifinals, the Alberni Valley Bulldogs have taken a 2-1 lead in their series against the Surrey Eagles after a 5-2 victory at home on April 8, 2025. The Bulldogs struck first with Jacob Terpstra scoring at 12:49 of the first period, followed by Wyatt Blace doubling their lead shortly after. Terpstra added another goal in the second period, showcasing his offensive skills, while the Eagles managed to score through Gavin Rocha and Ryan Staples, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Bulldogs' lead.
Grayson Badger and Brendan Ruskowski sealed the Bulldogs' victory with goals, while goaltender Ryder Shea made 23 saves to secure the win. The Eagles, who are the defending Fred Page Cup champions, will look to bounce back in game four, scheduled for April 9, 2025, at 7 p.m.
Meanwhile, the Okotoks Oilers are in a tough spot after losing game three to the Penticton Vees 6-3 on April 8, 2025. The Vees have taken a commanding 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven series, putting the Oilers on the brink of elimination. Despite scoring three goals in the final 24 minutes, the Oilers fell short against a powerful Vees team that capitalized on early opportunities.
Penticton's Max Heise and Louie Wehmann scored within the first six minutes, setting the tone for the game. The Oilers rallied with goals from captain Jackson Rowland and Michael Kowalski, but it was not enough as Penticton's Luke Posthumus scored another powerplay goal, and Matthew Biotti sealed the game with an empty-netter.
Game four will take place back in Okotoks on April 9, 2025, where the Oilers will aim to stave off elimination and keep their playoff hopes alive. If necessary, game five is scheduled for April 12 in Penticton.
As the BCHL playoffs progress, the excitement and intensity are palpable, with teams fighting tooth and nail for a chance at the championship. Fans are encouraged to support their teams during this thrilling time in junior hockey.
