Game Preview: Game 9 vs Edmonton, October 18
SETTING IT UP:
It’s a battle for first place in the Eastern Conference tonight as the Prince Albert Raiders (7-0-1-0) host the Edmonton Oil Kings (8-2-0-0). Prince Albert trails Edmonton by one point for the top spot heading into tonight’s game. After last night’s 6-5 win over the Regina Pats, the Raiders come into tonight’s matchup winners of six straight games. The Oil Kings are on a win streak of their own, as they’ve won three straight contests entering tonight.
RECAP VS PATS:
A four goal third period lead nearly vanished last night, but the Raiders were able to hold on to take down the Regina Pats. Leading 5-1 heading into the final frame, Prince Albert surrendered four goals in the third. Evan Smith’s goal at the 6:04 mark of the third stood as the game winner. That was one of two goals in the game for Smith. Aiden Oiring also scored twice for Prince Albert, while Keets Fawcett had a pair for the Pats.
PLAYING (AND COACHING) FOR CANADA:
Earlier this week, Hockey Canada announced the rosters for Canada Red and Canada White for the 2025 U17 World Hockey Challenge. Brock Cripps will play for Canada Red, while Ben Harvey will dress for Canada White. Additionally, Raiders head coach Ryan McDonald was named the head coach for Canada Red. McDonald won the tournament with Canada White last year as an assistant coach.
UPCOMING MILESTONES:
Brayden Dube-playing in 200th WHL game tonight
Justice Christensen-10 goals away from 50
LEADERSHIP:
The leadership group for the 2025-26 season has been set. Justice Christensen has been named captain for the second straight season. Aiden Oiring, Max Heise, and Daxon Rudolph were named alternates.
UP NEXT:
Prince Albert’s six game homestand comes to an end on Friday night. That will mark the start of a home and home set with the Swift Current Broncos. After a road game in Swift Current to wrap up the home and home next Saturday, Prince Albert comes back home for two games, as they host the Calgary Hitmen and Moose Jaw Warriors. Then it’s off to the longest road trip of the season, which starts on November 5th in Lethbridge, and continues into the U.S. Division after that.
