Barlow and Bertucci meet again in Eastern Conference clash

With Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Final set for tonight at the Tribute Communities Centre, the Oshawa Generals look to seize momentum and take a 3-0 series lead over the Barrie Colts. The stakes are high, the intensity is rising, and for two players, it’s personal.

Facing off tonight are Generals forward Colby Barlow (Winnipeg Jets) and Colts defenceman Tristan Bertucci (Dallas Stars), whose story goes beyond the rink. Growing up in Orillia, Ont., Barlow spent plenty of time at the Bertucci household. The two played together for the GTHL’s Toronto Marlboros, trained together in the summers, and even lived under the same roof. They weren’t just teammates, they were like family.

“There’s just so many memories,” said Bertucci. “We won so many tournaments, and a league championship too. But honestly, it’s the nights at home, the family dinners… he really became like a brother to me.”

Barlow echoed the sentiment but made it clear that friendship pauses when the puck drops.

“It’s pretty cool to face off against him on this stage,” he said. “We lived together for a lot of my minor hockey career. But once we’re on the ice, it’s all business.”

Their shared journey includes a bronze medal with Team Canada at the 2023 IIHF U18 World Championship, but this playoff series may top the list.

“My favourite memory might end up being this series,” Bertucci said. “Playing against each other at one of the highest levels is something we’ll never forget.”

With Oshawa holding the edge and Barrie eager to respond, Game 3 promises more than just high-stakes hockey. It’s a clash between best friends, now top-level competitors.

Puck drops at 7:00 p.m. in Oshawa, where the NHL prospects turned rivals take centre stage. Fans can follow the action live on OHL Live (CHL TV), Rogers TV Durham and Barrie, or on Rogers Super Sports Pak channel 471.

Eastern Conference Finals on home ice 😍

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— Oshawa Generals (@Oshawa_Generals) April 29, 2025