The Brantford Bulldogs continue to demonstrate their prowess on ice, showcasing remarkable perseverance and skill during their recent road trip through Michigan. The team kicked off this four-game series with back-to-back victories, the latest of which transpired on Saturday, March 8, 2025, against the Saginaw Spirit, culminating in an impressive 11-3 triumph.
Earlier, on March 7, 2025, the Bulldogs overcame the Flint Firebirds, defeating them 4-2 thanks to stellar performances from Nick Lardis and Patrick Thomas. Lardis scored two goals during this match, bringing his season total to 68. Simultaneously, Thomas equaled Arthur Kaliyev’s franchise record, scoring his 248th career point. This initial victory helped set the stage for Brantford’s commanding display against Saginaw.
Fast forward to Saturday’s clash, the Bulldogs did not hold back. Nick Lardis scored his 69th goal at 12:52 of the first period, inching closer to the historic milestone of 70. Excitement filled the rink as fans awaited what would come next. At 6:02 of the second period, Lardis not only reached but officially surpassed the 70-goal mark, becoming the first Ontario Hockey League (OHL) player to do so since John Tavares accomplished the feat during the 2006-07 season. Lardis’ impressive tally now stands at 70 goals and 44 assists, netting him 114 points. This is particularly noteworthy, as his prior career-highs were 29 goals, 21 assists, and 50 points during the previous season.
The significance of Lardis’ achievement cannot be overstated. He joins the elite company of previous 70-goal scorers such as Ray Sheppard, Tony Tanti, Eric Lindros, and Doug Gilmour, all legendary players who have graced the OHL. With five games left this season, Lardis has ample opportunity to expand his already impressive record.
'It’s surreal to be part of this elite group,' Lardis remarked post-game. 'I couldn’t have achieved this without my teammates setting me up and the support from our fans. This is for all of us.' His attitude emphasizes the strong team dynamic within the Bulldogs, which has contributed to their success.
Patrick Thomas also had his moment to shine during the game against Saginaw, recording his 249th career point, allowing him to surpass Kaliyev as the all-time franchise leader. He achieved this milestone when Lardis scored the Bulldogs' third goal of the night. Not only is this Thomas’ 100th point this season, but he also joins Lardis as the fourth Bulldog ever to reach this benchmark.
The Bulldogs’ offensive display was nothing short of breathtaking, with the team netting seven goals during the second period alone. Jake O’Brien was especially prolific, contributing three goals and two assists, bringing his total to 93 points this season. Marek Vanacker also played a significant role, netting one goal and providing four assists. Cole Brown contributed by adding two goals and one assist, rounding out this impressive offensive assault.
On the defensive end, goaltender Ryerson Leenders delivered yet again, stopping 31 shots throughout the game. Brantford’s dominating performance yielded 29 shots on goal, indicating their control of the match. By securing victory against Saginaw, the Bulldogs improved their overall record to 40-18-5-0, affording them 85 points and placing them three points clear of the Oshawa Generals at the top of the Eastern Conference.
The Bulldogs will continue their road trip, facing off against North Bay on Thursday, March 13, 2025, and Sudbury on Friday, March 14, 2025. After this stretch, they return to their home turf on March 19, 2025, where they are set to play against the Brampton squad.
The overwhelming success of the Bulldogs during this road trip signals their readiness to compete for playoff positioning. With both Lardis and Thomas achieving record-setting milestones, along with the team’s overall performance, Brantford fans can expect plenty of thrilling hockey as the season draws to a close. Their historic achievements not only symbolize individual milestones but also reflect the unified spirit and determination of the Bulldogs as they advance toward their playoff aspirations.