67’s playoff hopes hinge on last-day results

Game 68 — the last regular season game of the 2024-25 season. The Ottawa 67’s (24-33-4-6) playoff hopes ride on their meeting with the Brantford Bulldogs (43-19-5-0) on Sunday at 2 p.m. You can see the action on Rogers TV and CHLTV, and hear Kenny Walls’ call on TSN 1200.

The 67’s can not officially clinch a playoff spot this afternoon, however, they can force a single elimination play-in game on Tuesday night with a win, coupled with a North Bay loss in regulation (Vs. Sudbury Wolves).

Ottawa has been on fire of late, recording three wins in their past four games, and their only loss coming in overtime in that stretch. Last night in Erie, they blew out the Otters 7-1, scoring the game’s first six goals. Cooper Foster had a big game for the Barber Poles, scoring four points, including a pair of goals.

Luca Pinelli also picked up four points, notching his 250th career point, and moving into a tie for 10th in 67’s franchise history in goals with 128. He and Filip Ekberg have matching 10-game point streaks.

Brantford locked up the top seed in the Eastern Conference on Friday night, shutting out the Kingston Frontenacs 4-0 on the road. Nick Lardis was the only Bulldog to record a multi-point night, but didn’t manage to score his 72nd goal of the season.

Second-year forward Jake O’Brien is two points shy of 100 on the season, and would be the third Bulldog behind Lardis and Patrick Thomas to reach triple digits this season.

In all three previous meetings, the Bulldogs have skated away winners, with the 67’s being able to nip only a single point off of their East Division foes.

By the numbers

Keys to the game

• What pressure?

The 67’s need to be able to conquer the moment. Don’t get caught up in the hoopla surrounding this game, just go out and compete.

• Discipline

Don’t give the Bulldogs power play a chance. They’re a scary group to see come over the boards.

• Opportunity

Seize this. It’s one of those moments you prepare for as a kid in the driveway.