Kitchener Rangers - Feed https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/tag/3rd-selection/ Sat, 11 Apr 2026 02:56:44 +0000 en-CA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 ROUND TWO SERIES PREVIEW: KITCHENER RANGERS VS. SOO GREYHOUNDS https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/round-two-series-preview-kitchener-rangers-vs-soo-greyhounds Fri, 10 Apr 2026 01:13:08 +0000 Cole Dow https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/round-two-series-preview-kitchener-rangers-vs-soo-greyhounds Kitchener, ON – The Kitchener Rangers advanced to the second round after defeating the Saginaw Spirit in four games on April 2nd, closing out the series with a 5-1 victory in Game. They are now set to face the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference, the Soo Greyhound. Game 1 is scheduled for Friday, April 10th, with puck drop at 7:00 p.m. at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium.  
  • TV: RogersTV Channel 20 (Kitchener)
  • TV: Rogers Super Sports Pak 469 (Ontario)
  • Video Stream: Live on FloHockey
  • Radio: 570 NewsRadio Kitchener
  • Live Stats
  • Live Tweets
  SCHEDULE: Game 1: Friday, April 10th at Kitchener, 7:00 p.m. Game 2: Sunday, April 12th at Kitchener, 7:00 p.m. Game 3: Tuesday, April 14th at Sault Ste. Marie, 7:07 p.m. Game 4: Thursday, April 16th at Sault Ste. Marie, 7:07 p.m. Game 5: Friday, April 17th at Kitchener, 7:00 p.m.* Game 6: Sunday, April 19th at Sault Ste. Marie, 7:07 p.m.* Game 7: Tuesday, April 21st at Kitchener, 7:00 p.m.*   (*If necessary, Rangers home game is bolded)   PLAYOFF TICKETS Tickets for Round 2 of the OHL Playoffs are on sale now. You can purchase yours online here. Fans can also call 519-578-1570, or you can purchase tickets in person at The Aud Box Office, sponsored by White Way Plumbing, located at 400 East Avenue in Kitchener. Box Office hours may differ over the holiday weekend; find hours here.   HEAD-TO-HEAD This Season: The Rangers and Greyhounds met four times during the 2025-26 regular season, with Soo winning three of the matchups and Kitchener earning one victory. The Greyhounds took the first three meetings (5-4 OT, 4-0, and OT 3-2), while the Rangers responded with a 3-0 win in the final game. That most recent meeting came on Friday, March 6th, in Kitchener, where the Rangers secured a 3-0 victory. Jack Pridham led the way with two goals, while Sam O’Reilly added a shorthanded marker.   Playoff History: This postseason marks the 10th consecutive playoff appearance for the Kitchener rangers and their fifth straight trip to the second round. The Soo Greyhounds also qualified for the 2025 playoffs but were eliminated in the first round, falling in five games to the Windsor Spitfires. This will be the eleventh time in OHL history that the two teams will meet in the playoffs and the first time since the Greyhounds won the 2018 Western Conference Final in double overtime of Game 7. This season, Soo advanced to the second round after defeating the London Knights, who won the J. Ross Robertson Cup last season, in five games. The Greyhounds opened the series with three straight wins before London responded with a 4-1 victory in Game 4, but Soo closed out the series in Game 5.   Playoff Statistics: Kitchener Overall Power Play: 5th in the OHL at 36.4% Home Power Play: 1st in the OHL at 100.0%   Overall Penalty Kill: 6th in the OHL at 84.6% Home Penalty Kill: 2nd in the OHL at 100.0%   Sault Ste. Marie  Overall Power Play: 9th in the OHL at 17.4% Away Power Play: 5th in the OHL at 30.8%   Overall Penalty Kill: 5th in the OHL at 85.7% Away Penalty Kill: 4th in the OHL at 92.3%   SCOUTING THE RANGERS (48-14-4-2) 101 points, 68 GP First in the Western Conference, Second in the OHL   Rangers Round One: The Rangers closed out their opening-round series on Thursday, April 2nd, defeating the Saginaw Spirit in four straight games. The Rangers’ sweep secured a quick advance to the second round, outscoring Saginaw 19-8 over the series.   Rangers to Watch: Christian Humphreys led the way for Kitchener throughout the first round, recording nine points (4G, 5A). He topped the team in goals and tied for the team lead in assists alongside Sam O’Reilly. Humphreys registered at least one point in every game, highlighted by a combined seven-point performance in Games 1 and 4. On the power play, he added one goal and three assists. He finished the regular season with 85 points (27G, 58A). Sam O’Reilly, who figured to be a key contributor did just that in the opening round, finishing the round with five points, leading the group with four goals. O’Reilly made an impact in three of four games, including a three-point night in Game 1 (2G, 1A). He was particularly effective on the power play, scoring two goals and adding one assist. Cameron Reid anchored the Rangers’ defence with a strong all-around performance, finishing the series with four points (2G, 2A). One of his goals stood as a game-winner. The Nashville Predators prospect concluded the regular season with 56 points (15G, 41A).   Goaltending: Christian Kirsch Christian Kirsch started all four games in Round 1 against Saginaw, posting a perfect 4-0-0-0 record. He recorded a 1.95 goals-against average and a .890 save percentage. Kirsch was also one-of-six goalies to record a shutout in the first round, making all 14 saves in game 2. The San Jose prospect will look to be a key contributor in a tough second round matchup with the Greyhounds.   SCOUTING THE GREYHOUNDS (39-23-1-5) 84 points, 68GP Fifth in the Western Conference, 9th in the OHL Greyhounds Round One: The fifth-seeded Greyhounds opened the 2026 OHL Playoffs by defeating the fourth-seeded London Knights in five games, wrapping up the series on April 3rd. Soo took the first 3 games with both Games 2 and 3 needing overtime. It was Brady Martin who played hero in Game 2 as he netted the game winner in the final minute of the first overtime period. In Game 3 it was Carson Andrew who scored the game winner. It was Andrews first of the playoffs, coming in the second overtime frame. London would take Game 4 in Sault Ste. Marie before Soo clinched the series in London in Game 5 with a 4-0 shutout win. Seven players on the Soo Greyhounds roster have been drafted to the NHL. Four were taken in the 2025 draft: Brady Martin (Nashville Predators), Travis Hayes (Pittsburgh Penguins), Jordan Charron (Pittsburgh Penguins), and Marco Mignosa (Tampa Bay Lightning). Three others were taken in 2024: Landon Miller (Detroit Red Wings), Lukas Fischer (St. Louis Blues), and Carter George (Los Angeles Kings)   Greyhounds to Watch: Marco Mignosa has been electric to start the playoffs, recording 10 points (4G, 6A), with all his production coming in three of the five games. He led the team with two power-play goals and contributed two assists with the man advantage. Mignosa finished the regular season with 89 points (35G, 54A). Brady Martin sits just behind Mignosa with seven points (2G, 5A), also producing in three games. He added one goal and two assists on the power play, tying for the team lead in that category. The Nashville Predators prospect recorded 24 points (8G, 16A) during the regular season. Lukas Fischer has provided a steady presence on the blue line, finishing the opening round with four points (1G, 3A). Two of his assists came on the power play, and his lone goal stood as a game-winner, highlighting his impact in key moments.    Goaltending: Carter George  Carter George delivered exceptional goaltending across all five games, finishing the round with a 4-1-0-0 record, a 1.41 goals-against average, and a .942 save percentage. George joined the Greyhounds following the January 9th trade deadline and has quickly established himself as a key piece, currently ranking third among all OHL goaltenders in the playoffs.   RANGERS REACH Rangers Reach is back for another exciting season of great Rangers hockey and Huge JACKPOTS! You could be the next winner of our Jackpot draw or consolation prize draw of a $200 The Keg Waterloo Gift Card! Buy now! or text WIN to 95050 (Std Msg & Data Rates may apply) Also, back for another season is the Rangers Reach Authentic Jersey Raffle! Get your tickets online or on the concourse at tonight’s game!  Rangers Reach 50/50 supports local minor sports organizations, numerous social agencies, charities, and education related programs. Proceeds from Rangers Reach 50/50 also help support our community.   BROADCAST COVERAGE Every game this series will be televised on Rogers TV (Channel 20). It can also be watched across the province of Ontario on the Rogers Super Sports Pak for cable subscribers (Channels to vary each game). All games will be streamed live online on FloHockey. Additionally, fans can listen to action on the radio on 570 NewsRadio Kitchener.   UP NEXT: Following Game 1, the Blueshirts will remain on home ice for Game 2 on Sunday, April 12th, with puck drop set for 7:00 p.m. at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium. The Rangers will then travel to Sault Ste. Marie to face the Greyhounds for Games 3 and 4, beginning on Tuesday, April 14th.   For media inquiries, contact: Luca Lombardi  Manager, Communications and Community Relations Kitchener Rangers Hockey Club (416) 885-4510 llombardi@kitchenerrangers.com]]> Head Coach Jussi Ahokas Named Finalist for OHL Coach of the Year   https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/head-coach-jussi-ahokas-named-finalist-for-ohl-coach-of-the-year Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:07:01 +0000 Cole Dow https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/head-coach-jussi-ahokas-named-finalist-for-ohl-coach-of-the-year TORONTO (Wednesday, April 8, 2026) - The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced finalists for the Matt Leyden Trophy, presented annually to the OHL Coach of the Year as voted by the League's General Managers.
Team nominees were required to receive 20% of the vote from General Managers within their own conference to advance to the final ballot as award finalists.
This year's Matt Leyden Trophy finalists include:
Dylan Smoskowitz (Barrie Colts) - 45-14-5-4, 99 Pts., 1st Central Division Getting off to a remarkable start to his OHL head coaching tenure, Dylan Smoskowitz steered the Colts to 45 wins, the most by a first-year coach in the League since Craig Hartsburg's 47 at the helm of the 1994-95 Guelph Storm. Featuring high profile names in first round NHL Draft picks Cole Beaudoin (Utah), Emil Hemming (Dallas) and Kashawn Aitcheson (NY Islanders), the Colts sprinted to their second straight Central Division title, playing to a 16-3-5-4 record in one-goal games, seeing overtime a league-high 21 times. The Colts were 31-1-1-1 in games when they scored first during the regular season, and led the OHL with 24 road wins.
Paul Flache (Flint Firebirds) - 44-17-4-3, 95 Pts., 2nd West Division It was a memorable season in Flint as the Firebirds won a record 44 games, finishing with an all-time best 95 points under Head Coach Paul Flache. Though they came up just shy of their first-ever West Division title, the Firebirds flexed their muscle with the Western Conference's best road record of 22-9-1-2. Flint enjoyed plenty of individual success, with captain Nathan Aspinall setting a new single season mark with 61 assists and goaltender Mason Vaccari's 2.70 goals-against average standing out as a new benchmark. The Firebirds finished tied with the Barrie Colts with a season-high 11-game winning streak that spanned from Nov. 5th through the 29th, with the last game in that string seeing Flache become the winningest coach in Firebirds history. He earned his 100th victory behind the Flint bench on Mar. 7th.
Jussi Ahokas (Kitchener Rangers) - 47-14-5-2, 101 Pts., 1st Midwest Division The reigning OHL Coach of the Year, Kitchener's Jussi Ahokas looks to become the first to earn back-to-back honours since Ottawa's Andre Tourigny in 2019 and 2020. Ahokas' Rangers finished atop the Western Conference standings for the first time since 2008, securing the first back-to-back 100-point seasons in the club's 62-year history. Kitchener led the OHL with 19 shorthanded goals, and outshot their opponents by a margin of 492, the widest in the League. The Rangers finished the season as the OHL's only team to go undefeated in regulation when leading after one period. The Blueshirts won a season-high 14 consecutive home games from Jan. 9th through Mar. 17th.
Dave Cameron (Ottawa 67's) - 47-15-3-3, 100 Pts., 2nd East Division There's always a team that exceeds everyone's expectations, and according to the OHL's annual pre-season power rankings, that team was the Ottawa 67's in 2025-26. The Barber Poles weren't even ranked on the list filed back in September, assembled based off the votes of the OHL's accredited media members. Dave Cameron's club went on to hit the 100-point mark, getting big contributions from previously unknown commodities in draft-eligible goaltender Ryder Fetterolf, Finnish 32-goal-scorer Jasper Kuhta, offseason recruit Thomas Vandenberg and former 15th round pick Spencer Bowes. The 67's were 38-0 when leading after two periods, and surrendered a league-low 160 goals, setting a new franchise record while reaching the 100-point plateau for the seventh time in their storied history. One of the OHL's longest-tenured coaches, Cameron also won Coach of the Year honours in 2022-23.
Greg Walters (Windsor Spitfires ) - 44-15-6-3, 97 Pts., 1st West Division Greg Walters' West Division champions secured their second straight banner, persevering in the face of late-season injuries to prominent forwards Ethan Belchetz and Nathan Villeneuve. The Spits finished with a league-best 82.8% penalty kill, surrendering a league-low 24.07 shots-per-game. They were also fast starters throughout the campaign, scoring first in a league-high 46 of their 68 games. Walters displayed creativity behind the bench, overcoming injuries with the deployment of talented blueliners Anthony Cristoforo and Carson Woodall in forward roles at various points throughout the season. Walters coached his 400th career OHL contest on Feb. 27th before closing out a second-straight 40+ win season at the helm in Windsor.
The OHL will announce the winner of the Matt Leyden Trophy as Coach of the Year on Thursday, April 16th.
About the Ontario Hockey League The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) has long been regarded as the number one development league in the world, continuing to serve as a leading supplier of talent for the National Hockey League. The OHL consists of 20 teams, with 17 located in Ontario, two in the state of Michigan and one in the state of Pennsylvania. A proud member of the Canadian Hockey League, the OHL is also a leading provider of hockey scholarships, with over 329 graduates receiving OHL Scholarships to pursue a post-secondary education of their choice in 2024-25, resulting in a collective investment of over $42 million by OHL member teams over the past 15 years.
###
For more information, please contact:
 
Josh Sweetland
Director, Communications
Ontario Hockey League
416-299-8700 ext. 327
]]> 2026 OHL Awards – Rangers’ Pridham named Overage Player of the Year https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/2026-ohl-awards-rangers-pridham-named-overage-player-of-the-year Tue, 07 Apr 2026 18:12:44 +0000 Cole Dow https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/2026-ohl-awards-rangers-pridham-named-overage-player-of-the-year TORONTO – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced that Kitchener Rangers forward Jack Pridham is this year’s recipient of the Leo Lalonde Memorial Trophy, presented annually to the OHL Overage Player of the Year as voted by the League’s General Managers. Pridham keeps the award in the Rangers franchise for a third straight season, following Jackson Parsons (2024-25) and Matthew Sop (2023-24) in having his named etched on the Leo Lalonde Memorial Trophy. The Chicago Blackhawks finished with 46 goals, the second-most in the OHL, along with 44 assists and 90 points over 65 games along with a plus/minus rating of plus-38. “It’s a tremendous honour to win the Overage Player of the Year Award,” said Pridham. “I want to thank my teammates and the coaching staff for everything they’ve done to help me this season. To continue the tradition after Soppy and Parsons is great as well. It’s awesome to keep that award in the organization.” Pridham’s season included three hat-tricks along with 16 power play goals and six shorthanded markers, with both figures among the OHL’s league-leaders. He also potted seven game-winning goals and was voted the Western Conference’s best shot in the OHL Coaches Poll. “We are very excited and proud of Jack for this award and accomplishment,” said Rangers General Manager Mike McKenzie. “He has had a great year and been a big part of our team from start to finish and scored a lot of big goals for us. It is very cool for our organization to have three winners of this award over the last three seasons and is a testament to our coaching staff on developing players and being patient with their development over long stretches of time.” A 20-year-old from Stouffville, ON, Pridham completes his second season with the Rangers after producing 54 points (27-27–54) over 48 games in 2024-25. The 6-foot-2, 185Ib. right-wing was chosen by Kitchener in the ninth round (177th overall) of the 2021 OHL Priority Selection before he competed in the St. Andrew’s College prep hockey program and parts of the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons with the BCHL’s West Kelowna Warriors. The Chicago Blackhawks selected Pridham in the third round (92nd overall) of the 2024 NHL Draft. Pridham emerged as the award recipient out of a group of finalists that also consisted of defenceman Maleek McGowan of the Kingston Frontenacs, forward Cooper Foster of the Ottawa 67’s and forward Marco Mignosa of the Soo Greyhounds. First presented in 1984, the Leo Lalonde Memorial Trophy was donated by the trainers of the Ontario Hockey League, in memory of the late Leo Lalonde, former Chief Scout of OHL Central Scouting. Leo Lalonde was also former the Chief Scout for the Belleville Bulls as well as a scout for the Peterborough Petes. Pridham will be formally recognized as OHL Overage Player of the Year at the 2026 OHL Awards Ceremony held at The Hockey Hall of Fame in June. ]]> Rangers Announce Second Round Playoff Schedule https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/rangers-announce-second-round-playoff-schedule Mon, 06 Apr 2026 16:00:33 +0000 Cole Dow https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/rangers-announce-second-round-playoff-schedule Kitchener, ON — Your Kitchener Rangers are set for a Second Round showdown against the Soo Greyhounds, and it all starts at The Aud. Round 2 is proudly presented by Carrier.

Fans can mark their calendars for the following games this round:

Round 2 – Game 1
Friday, April 10th, 2026 | The Aud | 7pm

Round 2 – Game 2
Sunday, April 12th, 2026 | The Aud | 7pm

Round 2 – Game 3
Tuesday, April 14th, 2026 | GFL Memorial Gardens | 7:07pm

Round 2 – Game 4
Thursday, April 16th, 2026 | GFL Memorial Gardens | 7:07pm

Round 2 – Game 5*
Friday, April 17th, 2026 | The Aud | 7pm

Round 2 – Game 6*
Sunday, April 19th, 2026 | GFL Memorial Gardens | 7:07pm

Round 2 – Game 7*
Tuesday April 21st, 2026 | The Aud | 7pm

*If necessary. Tickets for all potential games will go on sale when they are confirmed.

Rangers First Two Home Games On Sale Now

Tickets for Round 2 Home Games 1 and 2 are on sale now! Tickets for future home games will be released for sale once the game has been officially confirmed.

How to Purchase

Fans can secure their seats through the following options:

Online
kwtickets.ca

In Person
The Aud Box Office, sponsored by Whiteway Plumbing
400 East Ave., Kitchener, ON N2H 1Z6

Box Office Hours
Monday to Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Fans can check the Aud website for full box office hours.

]]> Rangers to Face Greyhounds in Round 2 of the OHL Playoffs https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/rangers-to-face-greyhounds-in-round-2-of-the-ohl-playoffs Sat, 04 Apr 2026 14:29:55 +0000 Cole Dow https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/rangers-to-face-greyhounds-in-round-2-of-the-ohl-playoffs Game Recap: Kitchener Rangers Earn 5-1 Game 4 Victory to Sweep Opening Round Series https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/game-recap-kitchener-rangers-earn-5-1-game-4-victory-to-sweep-opening-round-series Fri, 03 Apr 2026 02:07:45 +0000 Cole Dow https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/game-recap-kitchener-rangers-earn-5-1-game-4-victory-to-sweep-opening-round-series Saginaw, MI. – The Kitchener Rangers defeated the Saginaw Spirit 5-1 Thursday night to earn their fourth-straight victory and sweep their opening round series. This is the fifth-straight opening round that the Kitchener Rangers have won dating back to 2019. Kitchener scored four unanswered goals to open the game, three in the opening period alone. Sam O'Reilly opened the scoring after blocking a shot in the Rangers end and powering his way down the ice for a breakaway goal. Dylan Edwards got his first goal of the playoffs and quickly doubled down with a sweet power play goal to cap off a strong opening frame by the Blueshirts. The Rangers and Spirit traded goals in the middle frame, before Christian Humphreys sealed the victory with an empty net goal. Christian Kirsch remains perfect in goal for the Rangers improving to a 4-0-0-0 record with a 13-save performance.   Scoring Summary: First Period KIT 1 – SAG 0 6:39 Sam O’Reilly (4) – Unassisted KIT 2 – SAG 0 - GWG 13:25 Dylan Edwards (1) – Cameron Arquette, Carson Campbell KIT 3 – SAG 0 – PPG 19:45 Dylan Edwards (2) – Christian Humphreys, Jack Pridham   Second Period KIT 4 – SAG 0 17:42 Christian Humphreys (3) – Luca Romano KIT 4 – SAG 1 18:29 Dimian Zhilkin (3) – Nikita Klepov, Carson Harmer   Third Period KIT 5 – SAG 1 – ENG 14:33 Christian Humphreys (4) – Jack Pridham   The Numbers Game: Shots: KIT 42 – SAG 14 Power play: KIT 1/4 – SAG 1/5 FO%: KIT 69% – SAG 31%   The Starting Goalies: Christian Kirsch (KIT) – 13/14 Saves, One Goal Against, Win Stepan Shurygin (SAG) – 37/41 Saves, Four Goals Against,  Loss   UP NEXT: The Kitchener Rangers await their Round 2 opponent which will be one of the Soo Greyhounds or London Knights who play a critical Game 5 in London Friday night. Details on tickets and dates will be announced on our website and across our social media platforms once approved by the OHL.   For media inquiries, contact: Luca Lombardi  Manager, Communications and Community Relations Kitchener Rangers Hockey Club (416) 885-4510 llombardi@kitchenerrangers.com]]> ROUND ONE GAME FOUR: Kitchener Rangers vs. Saginaw Spirit https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/round-one-game-four-kitchener-rangers-vs-saginaw-spirit Thu, 02 Apr 2026 16:00:52 +0000 Cole Dow https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/round-one-game-four-kitchener-rangers-vs-saginaw-spirit Saginaw, MI – Following a clutch overtime win in Game 3, the Kitchener Rangers will look to close out this opening round series against the Saginaw Spirit Thursday night. Puck drop is set for 7:05 p.m. at the Dow Event Center.     HEAD-TO-HEAD Game Three The Rangers started off Game 3 quickly with Matthew Andonovski scoring just 1:28 into the game. It was Andonovski's second goal of the series. James Guo responded later in the opening frame to tie the game to notch things up after 20. Alexander Bilecki gave the Blueshirts the lead with his first goal of the playoffs, yet it was Saginaw who scored the next two with Bode Stewart and Nikita Klepov each scoring their first of the playoffs. Gabe Chariot tied things up with just over five minutes remaining in regulation. 60 minutes proved to not be enough as the game would head to overtime for the first time in the series. It was Luca Romano who played hero as he fired in the game winner on a rebound in the slot on a shot from Alexander Bilecki. SCOUTING THE RANGERS (3-0-0-0) Luca Romano picked up his first two points of the series in game three. He assisted Andonovski's opening goal, as well as scoring the game winner in overtime. The Islanders 3rd round draft pick is looking to embark on a long playoff run, being a key contributor in Kitchener’s top 6. Romano was a key point getter in last years playoffs as he had 11 points in 16 games. Alexander Bilecki also picked up his first goal of the playoffs as he added a goal and an assist. Bilecki has progressed very well from his rookie year a season ago. He recorded 15 more points in the regular season and has already surpassed his point total from last years playoffs. The 2026 draft eligible defenceman looks to keep improving his draft stock as the Rangers look to move forward in the years playoffs. Matthew Andonovski picked up his second goal of the playoffs in the first few minutes of the game Tuesday night. The veteran defenceman has been a key addition since his return from Belleville (AHL) earlier in the season. He has already surpassed his goal total from last years playoff and will look to stay as a steady presence on the Ranger blueline for the remainder of the playoffs. Goaltending Christian Kirsch stood tall once again as he stopped 17 of the 20 shots he saw. Kirsch’s important play held the Spirit to only one power play goal in five attempts. The San Jose Sharks draft pick is spotting a 2.25 GAA and a .881 save percentage through the first three games of the playoffs.   SCOUTING THE SPIRIT (0-2-1-0) Egor Barabanov continues to be an important factor for the Spirit. He leads the Spirit in points with 4 (1G, 3A) in three games. He picked up a pair of helpers for Saginaw. Nikita Klepov found the back of the net for the first time this series. The OHL points leader has been contained by a strong Ranger defence, but has still be able to produce 4 points (1G, 3A) in the three games thus far. Levi Harper continues to be the steady force on the back end for the Spirit. The rookie defenceman who led all rookie defenceman in points has recorded 3 points (1G, 2A) through three games, he picked up his 2nd assist on a power play goal from Klepov. Goaltending Stepan Shurygin turned away a flurry of shots from the Ranger offence. The Rangers topped their Game 1 and Game 2 shot total by throwing 54 shots at the Russian netminder. Shurygin recorded 50 saves in Game 3 bringing his save total to 107 through three games.   Broadcast Coverage: Thursday night’s game against the will be televised on Rogers TV (Channel 20). It can be watched across the province of Ontario on the Super Sports Pak on channel 469 for cable subscribers. The game will be streamed live online on FloHockey. Additionally, fans can listen to  action on the radio on 570 NewsRadio Kitchener.   UP NEXT: Should Saginaw win Game 4 and extend the series, Game 5 will be played back in Kitchener Friday night. Puck drop would be set for 7:00. p.m. at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium.   For media inquiries, contact: Luca Lombardi  Manager, Communications and Community Relations Kitchener Rangers Hockey Club (416) 885-4510 llombardi@kitchenerrangers.com]]> Game Recap: Luca Romano Scores OT Winner To Take Commanding 3-0 Series Lead https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/game-recap-luca-romano-scores-ot-winner-to-take-commanding-3-0-series-lead Wed, 01 Apr 2026 13:06:51 +0000 Cole Dow https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/game-recap-luca-romano-scores-ot-winner-to-take-commanding-3-0-series-lead Saginaw, MI. – Luca Romano and the Kitchener Rangers score on their 54th shot of the game to sink the Spirit in overtime and take a 3-0 series lead. Stepan Shurygin did his best in the Saginaw goal to keep the Kitchener Rangers off the board with a 50-save effort. Kitchener led on two occasions, first opening the scoring 88 seconds into the contest through Matthew Andnovoski's second marker of the postseason and then midway through the second period, Alexander Bilecki opened his scoring account with his first of the playoffs. Both Kitchener goals through 40 minutes of play came from the backend. James Guo and Bode Stewart had responses for the home side as the game was tied 2-2 after the second period. On their fifth power play opportunity of the game, Saginaw took their first lead of the game with 16:29 to play in regulation. Nikita Klepov let a one-time shot rip from the right face-off dot for his first goal on the playoffs. Saginaw held the lead for a while, until Gabriel Chiarot threw a seeing eye shot on net from the point to tie the game 3-3 with just over five minutes to play in regulation. In the overtime frame, the Rangers took their game to the Spirit, holding them without a shot. Then, at the 6:39 mark of the extra frame, Luca Romano jumped on a rebound in the slot to bury the game winner and hand Kitchener their third win of the series.   Scoring Summary:  First Period KIT 1 – SAG 0 1:28 Matthew Andonovski (2) – Luca Romano KIT 1 – SAG 1 14:54 James Guo (1) – Nikita Klepov   Second Period KIT 2 – SAG 1 8:23 Alexander Bilecki (1) – Tanner Lam, Haeden Ellis KIT 2 – SAG 2 18:25 Bode Stewart (1) – Egor Barabanov, James Guo   Third Period KIT 2 – SAG 3 – PPG 3:31 Nikita Klepov (1) – Egor Barbanov, Levi Harper KIT 3 – SAG 3 14:21 Gabriel Chiarot (2) – Carson Campbell, Cameron Reid   Overtime KIT 4 – SAG 3 – GWG 6:39 Luca Romano (1) – Alexander Bilecki, Christian Humphreys   The Numbers Game: Shots: KIT 54 – SAG 20 Power play: KIT 0/4 – SAG 1/5 FO%: KIT 59% - SAG 41%   The Starting Goalies: Christian Kirsch (KIT) – 17/20 Saves, Three Goals Against, Win Stepan Shurygin (SAG) – 50/54 Saves, Four Goals Against, Loss   UP NEXT: After facing the Spirit in Game 3 on Tuesday, the Rangers will remain on the road for Game 4 at the Dow Event Centre on Thursday, April 2nd. Puck drop on Thursday is set for 7:05 p.m.   For media inquiries, contact: Luca Lombardi  Manager, Communications and Community Relations Kitchener Rangers Hockey Club (416) 885-4510 llombardi@kitchenerrangers.com]]> ROUND ONE GAME THREE: Kitchener Rangers vs. Saginaw Spirit https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/round-one-game-three-kitchener-rangers-vs-saginaw-spirit Tue, 31 Mar 2026 16:39:24 +0000 Cole Dow https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/round-one-game-three-kitchener-rangers-vs-saginaw-spirit Saginaw, MI – After a successful opening weekend, the Kitchener Rangers head to the Dow Event Centre in Saginaw for Games 3 and 4 with a 2-0 series lead. Kitchener will look to extend their series lead against the Spirit tonight. Puck drop is set for 7:05 p.m.   HEAD-TO-HEAD Game 2: It was a dominant night at the Aud for the Rangers, as they shut out the Spirit with a 4-0 win. The first two periods went scoreless, with neither team able to find the back of the net. Less than a minute into the third, Sam O’Reilly opened the scoring, marking his third goal in two games. Just two minutes later, Gabriel Chiarot added another to give Kitchener a 2-0 lead. The momentum continued as Tanner Lam got on the board four minutes later, and Cameron Reid sealed the victory with a goal late in the game, collecting his second goal in two games.   SCOUTING THE RANGERS (2-0-0-0) Rangers to Watch: Gabriel Chiarot joined the team midway through the season in a trade with the Brampton Steelheads. This postseason marks his third playoff appearance. Across those runs, Chiarot has played 11 games and recorded two goals. His goal on Sunday came unassisted and served as an insurance marker, highlighting his ability to create scoring chances on his own. With his consistent performance throughout the season and a strong start in Game 2, Chiarot is expected to be a key contributor for Kitchener in this playoff race. Carson Campbell also played an important role in the game, contributing an assist and earning first star honours. His assist came on Sam O’Reilly’s game-winning goal. This is Campbell’s second postseason and in just two games this year, he has already matched and surpassed his production from last season, recording a pair of assists. The shutdown defenceman continues to provide strong support on both ends of the ice, showing clear progress and impact early in the playoffs. Dylan Edwards picked up his two first points of the playoffs, recording an assist on both of Sam O’Reilly’s and Cameron Reid’s goals. Edwards is playing in his third OHL playoffs, having recorded over a point per game in both previous experiences. He recorded nine points in six games in 2024 and fifteen in nine games in 2025. Tanner Lam recorded his first playoff goal this year after a strong regular season where he had 48 points in 67 games. The Ranger forward also had a strong playoff run last year with 8 points in 16 games. Lam looks to be a strong contributor on the scoresheet as well as a leader with experience as this is also his third career playoff appearance.   Goaltending: Kirsch In the crease for the Kitchener Rangers, Christian Kirsch delivered a standout performance on Sunday, recording his first career playoff shutout in Game 2. Kirsch turned aside all 14 shots he faced and currently ranks seventh among goaltenders this postseason, posting a .897 save percentage and a 2.00 goals against average through two games.   SCOUTING THE SPIRIT (0-2-0-0) Spirit to Watch: Egor Barabanov finished second in scoring for the Saginaw Spirit during the regular season. Although he didn’t register a point in Game 2, Barabanov made an impact in Game 1, recording a goal and an assist. In his first OHL season, this marks his first appearance in the playoffs. After a strong start, he’ll look to continue producing as Saginaw heads into Game 3. Nikita Klepov led the team in points during the regular season and finished atop the league standings. It’s an impressive achievement, especially in his first OHL season, just like Barabanov. Klepov recorded two assists in Game 1 but has yet to find the back of the net. He’ll be aiming to make an even bigger impact as the series continues. Saginaw captain, Dimian Zhilkin recorded two goals and an assist in Game 1, earning him second star honours.   Goaltending: Shurygin In net, Stepan Shurygin faced 27 shots from the Kitchener Rangers on Sunday, turning aside 23 of them in a busy night between the pipes. While he made several key saves early on, the pressure from Kitchener in the third period proved difficult to handle, as Shurygin finished with a .852 save percentage and a 4.00 goals-against average.   BROADCAST COVERAGE Tuesday night's game will be televised on Rogers TV (Channel 20). It can also be watched across the province of Ontario on the Rogers Super Sports Pak 471 for cable subscribers. All games will be streamed live online on FloHockey. Additionally, fans can listen to action on the radio on 570 NewsRadio Kitchener.   UP NEXT: After facing the Spirit in Game 3 on Tuesday in Saginaw, the Rangers will remain on the road for Game 4 at the Dow Event Centre on Thursday, April 2nd. Puck drop on Thursday is set for 7:05 p.m.   For media inquiries, contact: Luca Lombardi  Manager, Communications and Community Relations Kitchener Rangers Hockey Club (416) 885-4510 llombardi@kitchenerrangers.com]]> ROUND ONE, GAME TWO PREVIEW: Kitchener Rangers VS. Saginaw Spirit https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/round-one-game-two-preview-kitchener-rangers-vs-saginaw-spirit Sun, 29 Mar 2026 13:24:21 +0000 Cole Dow https://chl.ca/ohl-rangers/article/round-one-game-two-preview-kitchener-rangers-vs-saginaw-spirit Kitchener, ON – Opening the first round of the 2026 OHL playoffs with a win over the Saginaw Spirit on Friday, Kitchener will try to keep that momentum going tonight and take a 2-0 series advantage. Puck drop is set for 7:00 p.m. at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium.     PLAYOFF TICKETS Tickets for Games 2 are on sale now. You can purchase yours online here. Fans can also call 519-578-1570, or you can purchase tickets in person at The Aud Box Office, sponsored by White Way Plumbing, located at 400 East Avenue in Kitchener. Box Office hours may differ over the holiday weekend; find hours here.   HEAD-TO-HEAD Game 1: In the opening game of this new playoff campaign, the Kitchener Rangers struck first, opening the scoring in the first period. Saginaw responded in the second, finding the back of the net three times to take a 3-2 lead. Saginaw took the lead less than a minute after the Rangers had tied the game at 2-2. The third period belonged to Kitchener, as the Rangers tied the game before adding three more goals to secure a 6-4 victory in Game 1 of the 2025-26 OHL Playoffs. Sam O’Reilly and Christian Humphreys each scored twice for the Rangers, while Dimian Zhilkin matched the effort with two goals for Saginaw.   SCOUTING THE RANGERS (1-0-0-0) Rangers to Watch: Sam O’Reilly entered Game 1 of the playoffs on a high note, scoring twice and adding a helper in Kitchener’s opening win. Since joining the Rangers following the January 9th trade deadline, the forward has taken on a significant role and delivered consistent performances. Now in his third OHL playoff run, O’Reilly continues to build on an impressive postseason resume. Game 1 marked his 37th career playoff appearance, where he also recorded his 37th point, including his 14th goal and 23rd assist. He continues to be the OHL's playoff point leader amongst all active players. Matthew Andonovski also made an impact, scoring the game’s final insurance goal into an empty net to secure the win. The Ottawa Senators prospect picked up his first point early in the 2026 playoffs and will look to build on that performance tonight. As it’s his fifth OHL postseason, Andonovski brings experience and stability to the Rangers’ blue line. Over 37 playoff games, the defenceman has recorded five points (1G, 4A) while continuing to provide a reliable presence on the back end.   Goaltending: Kirsch Between the pipes, Christian Kirsch put in a solid effort in Game 1, allowing four goals on 25 shots. He finished the night with a .840 save percentage and a 4.00 goals-against average, The San Jose Sharks prospect is currently appearing in his first OHL postseason.   SCOUTING THE SPIRIT (0-1-0-0) Spirit to Watch: After a productive regular season, Dimian Zhilkin opened the playoffs strong, earning second star honours in Game 1 with two goals and one assist. Now in his second OHL postseason, Zhilkin is already making a bigger impact than last year, when he recorded two assists in five games. With that experience behind him, this playoff run carries added importance, and his opening performance shows he’s ready to step up. Through one game, Zhilkin leads the Spirit in playoff production, ahead of teammates who also contributed in Friday’s matchup, including Nikita Klepov (2A), Levi Harper (1G, 1A), and Egor Barabanov (1G, 1A). Levi Harper played a key role in Game 1. His goal came unassisted, and he also picked up a helper on one of Zhilkin’s tallies. As a rookie defenceman, Harper is making an immediate impact in his first OHL postseason, showing confidence early on. With a performance like that, he’s already proving he can be a difference-maker for the Spirit.   Goaltending: Shurygin Stepan Shurygin has been a standout all season, and despite the Game 1 loss, he delivered a strong performance, turning aside 34 of 39 shots. He closed the game with a .872 save percentage and a 5.13 goals-against average. Like Kirsch, Shurygin is in his rookie season, making this his first OHL playoff appearance.   RANGERS REACH Rangers Reach is back for another exciting season of great Rangers hockey and Huge JACKPOTS! You could be the next winner of our Jackpot draw or consolation prize draw of a $200 The Keg Waterloo Gift Card! Buy now! or text WIN to 95050 (Std Msg & Data Rates may apply) Also, back for another season is the Rangers Reach Authentic Jersey Raffle! Get your tickets online or on the concourse at tonight’s game!  Rangers Reach 50/50 supports local minor sports organizations, numerous social agencies, charities, and education related programs. Proceeds from Rangers Reach 50/50 also help support our community.   BROADCAST COVERAGE Sunday’s games played in Kitchener will be televised on Rogers TV (Channel 20). It can be watched across the province of Ontario on the Rogers Super Sports Pak Channel 470 for cable subscribers. All games will be streamed live online on FloHockey. Additionally, fans can listen to action on the radio on 570 NewsRadio Kitchener.   UP NEXT: After Sunday’s Game 2, the Rangers will head to the Dow Event Centre for Games 3 and 4 on Tuesday, March 31st and Thursday, April 2nd. Puck drop on Tuesday is set for 7:05 p.m.   For media inquiries, contact: Luca Lombardi  Manager, Communications and Community Relations Kitchener Rangers Hockey Club (416) 885-4510 llombardi@kitchenerrangers.com]]>