CHL Playoff Notebook: April 18, 2019
Top performances by a pair of freshmen was the story on the opening night of the third round of the Canadian Hockey League playoffs:
Ontario Hockey League
A five-goal outburst in the second period powered the Saginaw Spirit to a 7-2 decision in the Western Conference Final opener versus the Guelph Storm. First-year left-wing Cole Perfetti was the winning side’s most impressive player as he wrapped up the night with two goals, including the game winner, in addition to two assists and a plus-5 rating. Perfetti and the Spirit will look to push their series lead to 2-0 on Saturday on home ice.
That’s ✌️ for @ColePerfetti91 🦅
The red hot rookie has @SpiritHockey in full control of the West Final opener.#OHLPlayoffs | #SAGvsGUE pic.twitter.com/IJF9HVpFpA
— Ontario Hockey League (@OHLHockey) April 19, 2019
The Ottawa 67’s grabbed a 1-0 series lead over the Oshawa Generals following a 6-4 comeback victory in which rookie centre Marco Rossi led the way with a four-point effort, counting two goals and two assists. With the win, the 67’s remain unbeaten in the postseason, having won all nine of their games to date. The Eastern Conference Final continues Saturday in Ottawa.
Quebec Major Junior Hockey League
The puck drops for the third round of the QMJHL playoffs on Friday when the Rimouski Oceanic take on the first-place Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, while the 2019 Memorial Cup presented by Kia host Halifax Mooseheads travel west to dual with the Drummondville Voltigeurs.
Western Hockey League
The third round of WHL playoff action opens Friday when the Spokane Chiefs hit the road for Game 1 versus the Vancouver Giants, while the Edmonton Oil Kings will look to find the win column against the league’s top squad in the Prince Albert Raiders.