GAME 63 PREVIEW | Blades welcome Warriors for First Nations Night
Key Players, Notable Stats, How to Watch and More
The Saskatoon Blades (31-25-4-2) welcome the Moose Jaw Warriors (21-33-5-2) to SaskTel Centre for First Nations Night presented by Dakota Dunes Community Development Corporation.
Designed by talented artist Chris Chipak, the Blades are dawning special themed jersey featuring a unique variation of the Blades pac-man logo. The unique variation of the Blades pac-man logo boasts several features showcasing the rich heritage and history of First Nations peoples in Canada. All game-worn jerseys will be available for auction online starting Friday evening.
This night is an opportunity for us to not only celebrate First Nations culture but also recognize the contributions of First Nations peoples to our community and the game of hockey. We encourage fans to join us for a special evening of celebration.
The Blades look to improve to 2-0 in March. Saskatoon won their first game of the month 3-2 at home on Wednesday against the Red Deer Rebels. Tonight’s the sixth and final meeting of the regular season between the 2024 Eastern Conference Final combatants. The Bridge City Bunch lead the season series 3-2, outscoring the Warriors 27-22.
Standings
Lew lets it rip
Edmonton Oilers draft pick David Lewandowski scored the game-winning goal and dished a helper on Wednesday. The 6-foot-2 winger sniped his fifth powerplay goal of the season with 5:07 remaining in regulation. Lewandowski’s 16th goal of the campaign set a new career high. The German import leads the team in scoring with 59 points (16G, 43A) in 51 games.
Gardfather
Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Evan Gardner snagged his 23rd win of the on Wednesday. The victory marked back-to-back years the Fort St. John, BC native has reached 23 wins, one shy of setting a new career high. Gardner’s 47 appearances and 2593 minutes are the second most in the WHL behind only Victoria Royals netminder Ethan Eskit. The Gardfather has a .905 save percentage, 2.94 goals against average, and three shutouts on the year.
The good guys
Lewandowski leads the team in scoring with 16 goals and 43 assists for 59 points in 51 games. Alternate captain Rowan Calvert has the most goals on the team at 27 and a team-leading 13 coming on the man-advantage. Second-year defenceman Jordan Martin owns the best +/- at +9. Gardner has a 23-15-3-2 record between the pipes with a .905 SV%, 2.94 GAA, and three shutouts.
Milestone watch
Captain Tyler Parr is two assists away from 100 in his WHL career
Forward Hunter Laing is six games away from 200 in his WHL career
Forward David Lewandowski is two points away from 100 in his WHL career
Defenceman Tristen Doyle is two games away from 250 in his WHL career
Defenceman Isaac Poll is six games away from 100 in his WHL career
Watch and listen
Fans can watch tonight’s game for FREE on Victory+ TV. Coverage begins 15 minutes before puck drop hosted by Tanner Chubey. Click HERE to make your free account today.
