Game Preview: Game 63 vs Swift Current
SETTING IT UP:
The Raiders piled up a season high eight goals on Saturday night in a commanding 8-3 win over the visiting Medicine Hat Tigers. Brayden Dube and Ryder Ritchie each scored twice, while Sloan Stanick had a four point night with a goal and three assists. Justice Christensen and Aiden Oiring had three points in the victory as well. The green and gold welcome the Swift Current Broncos to town tonight, a team that hasn’t played at the Art Hauser Centre since October 28. The Broncos are also coming off of a win, after doubling up on the Brandon Wheat Kings 6-3 on Saturday.
THE STANDINGS RACE:
Saturday’s win, combined with Brandon’s loss brought the Raiders to within two points of the Wheat Kings for the sixth seed in the Eastern Conference. With Lethbridge also winning in a shootout against Moose Jaw on Saturday, the Hurricanes are also just two points back of Brandon, tied with the Raiders with 65 points. The good news is Calgary lost, which gave Prince Albert a five point cushion over the Hitmen, who are currently on the outside looking in. If the Raiders win and the Wheat Kings lose in Saskatoon tonight, Prince Albert will share the sixth seed with a game in hand.
HE’S BACK:
If you didn’t know already, Ryder Ritchie has made his impact since returning to the Raider lineup. In the seven games he has played since returning from injury, the 2024 NHL Draft prospect has six points (4G-2A).
TALE OF THE TAPE:
Raiders Season Stats |
Goals For: 203 |
Goals Against: 198 |
Shots For: 1,971 |
Shots Against: 2,002 |
Powerplay: 56/235 (23.8%) |
Penalty Kill: 185/232 (79.7%) |
UP NEXT:
The Raiders hit the road this weekend for a pair of games. They visit the Regina Pats on Friday night, and then trek into Manitoba on Saturday to face off against Brandon.