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ISight Optometry Game Recap: Rockets Playoff Run Ends with 2-1 Overtime Loss in Everett

Paige Bednorz — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 05:22:15 +0000

The Kelowna Rockets were led by an outstanding performance from Josh Banini, who stopped 53 of 55 shots, but a late push wasn’t enough as they fell 2–1 in overtime to the top-seeded Everett Silvertips. Shane Smith’s late third-period goal tied the game and gave Kelowna life, but Everett responded in overtime as Landon Dupont scored the winner to secure the victory and help the Silvertips move on. Despite being heavily outshot 55–31, the Rockets generated more high-danger chances but couldn’t solve Silvertips goaltender Anders Miller, who was outstanding throughout the series. BOXSCORE GAME SUMMARY The opening frame was fast-paced with both teams trading chances early. The Everett Silvertips held the edge in shots, outshooting the Kelowna Rockets 15–9, but Josh Banini was sharp in the Rockets net, turning aside everything he faced. Kelowna had a couple of looks on the power play but couldn’t capitalize, sending the game to the intermission scoreless. Everett continued to push the pace in the second, outshooting Kelowna 16–9 and controlling much of the territorial play. Despite that, the Rockets created some of the more dangerous opportunities, forcing Anders Miller into key saves. Neither side found a breakthrough, keeping the game locked at 0–0 through 40 minutes. Everett finally broke through at 11:34 of the third as Carter Bear (2) scored shorthanded glove side to give the Silvertips a 1–0 lead. The Rockets pressed late and were rewarded when Shane Smith (2) tied the game at 18:47, finishing a play from Carson Wetsch and Vojtech Cihar mirroring the previous game where Smith also scored late to force overtime. In overtime, it took just 40 seconds for Everett to strike, as a point shot from Landon Dupont found its way through traffic to secure a 2–1 victory and clinch the series. While the series total box score may appear lopsided, the Rockets stayed competitive throughout and pushed the top-seeded Silvertips in every game. Banini was a standout, building off his relief performance in Game 4 where he stopped 29 straight shots. He finished Games 4 and 5 having turned aside a total of 82 of 84 shots. ADDITIONAL STATS Shots on Goal: Kelowna 31 | Everett 55 Power Play: Kelowna 0/3 | Everett 0/2 Faceoffs: Kelowna 30 | Everett 31 UP NEXT The Rockets will now look towards the Memorial Cup which will begin May 21st at Prospera Place.

ISight Optometry Game Recap: Rockets Erase 3 Goal Deficit to Survive another Game

Paige Bednorz — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 05:57:28 +0000

The Kelowna Rockets have forced a game five against the Everett Silvertips after a crazy 4-3 overtime victory. The Rockets were down 3-0 with 12:07 left to go in the game before scoring three times, including a Shane Smith goal to tie the game with 7.7 seconds to go. In overtime it was Tij Iginla who scored the game-winning goal. Goaltender Josh Banini came in relief of Harrison Boettiger and was spectacular in the win. BOXSCORE | HIGHLIGHTS | POST GAME: MARTIN | POST GAME: IGINLA | POST GAME: BANINI GAME SUMMARY Everett came out flying and opened the scoring just 1:04 into the game as Julius Miettinen (8) made it 1–0. The Silvertips doubled their lead on the powerplay at 8:47 of the first period, with Matias Vanhanen (7) converting off a nice feed from Landon Dupont. Everett extended the lead to 3–0 at 14:10 when Brek Liske (3) scored glove side. That goal ended Harrison Boettiger’s night, as Josh Banini entered in relief and shut the door the rest of the way. The second period was hard-fought hockey from both teams. Both teams traded chances but neither team could capitalize and it remained 3-0 after forty minutes of play In the third, it was Tij Iginla (6) who got the Rockets on the board on the powerplay at 7:54 on a beautifully placed shot blocker-side. It was Iginla’s first goal of the series and it helped to energize the team back into the game. The goal was assisted by Mazden Leslie as the Rockets cut the deficit to 3–1. The Rockets continued to build momentum midway through the period. Hiroki Gojsic (1) scored his first of the postseason at 12:11 after picking up an Everett turnover and squeaking it by the Silvertips netminder to bring Kelowna within one. With time and the Rockets' season winding down, Kelowna would tie the game in dramatic fashion. On the powerplay, Shane Smith (1) scored at 19:52 of the third period, with assists from Vojtech Cihar and Carson Wetsch to tie the game 3–3 and force overtime. It was a scramble in front of the Silvertips net and Smith proved to be in the right place at the right time to tie the game In overtime, the comeback was complete. Tij Iginla (7) scored his second of the night at just 2:30 into overtime to complete the comeback for the Rockets. Vojtech Cihar and Tomas Poletin assisted the goal, securing a 4–3 overtime victory for the Rockets. Banini finished a perfect 29-for-29 in relief, while Tij Iginla scored twice and Vojtech Cihar led Kelowna with two assists. The Rockets went 2-for-6 on the power play and showed resilience after a tough opening period, erasing a three-goal deficit to secure a huge win on home ice. ADDITIONAL STATS Shots on Goal: Kelowna 37 | Everett 26 Power Play: Kelowna 1/6 | Everett 0/4 Faceoffs: Kelowna 32 | Everett 31 UP NEXT The Rockets will now carry this momentum into Everett, facing a challenging situation. Game five will take place Friday, April 17th, at 7:05pm pst. The game is available for free for all fans on Victory+ and 104.7 The Lizard.

ISight Optometry Game Recap: Rockets Drop Game 3 against Silvertips

Paige Bednorz — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 05:13:39 +0000

The Kelowna Rockets dropped Game 3 on Tuesday night at Prospera Place, falling 4–1 to the Everett Silvertips. Everett broke the game open in the second period, scoring three times to take control. Tomas Poletin scored the lone goal for Kelowna in the loss. Silvertips goaltender Anders Miller was the standout performer, turning aside 36 of 37 shots to backstop Everett to the victory. BOXSCORE | HIGHLIGHTS | POST GAME: MARTIN GAME SUMMARY The opening frame was played at a fast pace, and the Rockets came with tons of energy right from the drop of the puck. Kelowna generated a number of quality scoring chances and controlled much of the period, outshooting Everett 16–4 in the first. Despite the pressure and offensive zone time, the Rockets were unable to beat goaltender Anders Miller, and the game remained scoreless after twenty minutes. Everett broke through in the second period, as Matias Vanhanen (6) opened the scoring at 7:45 to give the Silvertips a 1–0 lead. Just 24 seconds later, Brek Liske (2) found the back of the net at 8:09, quickly doubling Everett’s advantage and shifting momentum. The Silvertips continued to capitalize on their opportunities as Julius Miettinen (7) added an insurance marker late in the period at 16:56, sending Everett into the second intermission with a commanding 3–0 lead. The Rockets pushed back in the third period and were finally rewarded on the powerplay, as Tomas Poletin (2) scored in the slot at 5:52 to cut into the deficit. Hayden Paupanekis and Parker Alcos picked up the assists on the goal, bringing Kelowna within two and giving the home crowd some life. However, Everett responded before the Rockets could build further momentum, as Lukas Kaplan converted on a penalty shot to restore the three-goal cushion. That would hold as the final, with the Silvertips earning a 4–1 victory. Harrison Boettiger made 23 saves in the loss, while the Rockets outshot Everett 37–27 but were unable to find the finishing touch. With the result, Kelowna now sits one game away from elimination in the 2026 WHL Playoffs. ADDITIONAL STATS Shots on Goal: Kelowna 37 | Everett 26 Power Play: Kelowna 1/6 | Everett 0/4 Faceoffs: Kelowna 32 | Everett 31 UP NEXT With their backs against the wall, the Rockets will look to respond in Game 4 and claw their way back into the series. Game 4 is set for Wednesday, April 15th at 7:05 PM PST. Tickets are available at selectyourtickets.com.

Three Rockets Named WHL Award Finalists

Paige Bednorz — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 17:15:57 +0000

As the 2025–26 season progressed, different parts of the Kelowna Rockets organization made their mark. That was recognized this week, as three key members of the Rockets were named finalists for major Western Hockey League awards.

It starts with Tij Iginla.

After an injury-shortened season a year ago, the 19-year-old returned with something to prove and delivered one of the most dominant offensive seasons in the WHL. Iginla led the league in points per game (1.88), finishing with 90 points in just 48 games, while setting new career highs in both assists and total points.

His name now sits among the finalists for the Four Broncos Memorial Trophy, awarded to the WHL’s Player of the Year. It is a moment that carries added significance, as his father, Jarome Iginla, captured the same honour nearly three decades ago. For the Rockets, it is an opportunity to see a new chapter of history written, as no Kelowna player has ever claimed the award.

While Iginla’s impact has been felt every night on the ice, Shane Smith has made his mark in a different, equally meaningful way.

Acquired mid-season, Smith quickly became a leader both in the room and in the community. Inspired by his niece Maia, who was diagnosed with congenital CMV at birth, Smith pledged to donate $25 for every point he recorded to the Canadian CMV Foundation. By season’s end, that commitment turned into $1,675 raised during the regular season, along with increased awareness for a cause that extends far beyond the game.

Now a finalist for the Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy for the third straight season, Smith’s impact is a reminder of what it means to represent more than just a team crest.

Behind the scenes and behind the roster is a familiar name.

In his 35th season of leading the organization, Bruce Hamilton has once again built a contender. The Rockets’ fourth-place finish in the Western Conference is the result of a season defined by calculated decisions from key acquisitions. Prior to puck drop this season, Hamilton added San Jose Sharks prospect Carson Wetsch, along with veteran blueliner Mazden Leslie. The offseason also saw Hamilton recruit U.S.-born netminder Harrison Boettiger, who is on the radar for the 2026 NHL Draft. Before the 2026 WHL Trade Deadline passed, Hamilton had bolstered his depth and veteran presence with the addition of Vancouver Canucks prospect Parker Alcos, Overagers Shane Smith and Ty Halaburda, and others. Two of Hamilton’s savviest moves came in the form of imports. During the 2025 CHL Import Draft, he selected New York Islanders prospect Tomas Poletin with the first overall pick. Later in the campaign, he acquired Los Angeles Kings prospect Vojtech Cihar via trade and was successful in recruiting him to Kelowna following the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship.

Hamilton’s work has earned him a nomination for the Lloyd Saunders Memorial Trophy, recognizing WHL Executive of the Year. Hamilton has won the honour of WHL Executive of the Year on two occasions (1992–93, 2002–03). It is an honour that reflects not just this season but also a legacy that includes four WHL championships and a Memorial Cup.

Together, these three nominations tell the story of a season in Kelowna, one built on talent, character, and leadership at every level of the organization.

And with playoff hockey underway, that story is still being written.

Update on Ty Halaburda

Paige Bednorz — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 06:07:37 +0000

KELOWNA, BC – The Kelowna Rockets would like to provide an update on forward Ty Halaburda following the injury sustained during Game 2 in Everett. Halaburda has been released from Providence Regional Medical Center Everett and will travel home to Victoria today with his family. He will be out for the remainder of the season as he recovers from a head injury. The Rockets medical staff will oversee his care moving forward, and he is expected to rejoin the team later this month. The Kelowna Rockets would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the medical staff at Providence Regional Medical Center Everett for their care and support. The organization would also like to thank the Everett Silvertips front office staff for their outstanding support throughout this process. The organization wishes Ty a full and speedy recovery and will continue to support him throughout his rehabilitation.

ISight Optometry Game Recap: Rockets Fall 4–2 to Silvertips in Game 2

Paige Bednorz — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 04:40:42 +0000

The Kelowna Rockets dropped Game 2 of the second round in the 2026 WHL Playoffs, falling 4–2. They now trail the series 2–0 as they head back to Kelowna for games 3 & 4. Goals from Hayden Paupanekis and Owen Folstrom led the Rockets offensively, while goaltender Harrison Boettiger made 34 saves in the loss. BOXSCORE GAME SUMMARY The opening period saw Kelowna come out strong, generating a ton of early offense and outshooting Everett heavily. However, it was Everett who opened the scoring at 4:56, as Zackary Shantz (3) finished a play from Brek Liske and Landon DuPont to make it 1–0. The Rockets responded late in the frame, with Hayden Paupanekis (2) scoring at 17:39 off a setup from Tomas Poletin and Ty Halaburda to tie the game 1–1 heading into the second. Everett took control early in the middle frame, as Jaxsin Vaughan (3) struck just 1:19 in, finishing a play from Nolan Chastko and Jaxon Pisani to give the Silvertips their first lead. Kelowna answered back at 6:58, with Owen Folstrom (1) scoring his first of the playoffs off a tip from a point shot by Jacob Henderson to tie it 2–2. However, the Silvertips regained the lead on the powerplay at 15:35, when Carter Bear (1) buried a chance off of a Landon DuPont shot that missed the net. Shea Busch picked up the other assist, giving Everett a 3–2 lead heading into the third. In the third period, Everett added insurance at 9:01 on the powerplay, as Julius Miettinen (6) finished a setup from Carter Bear and Matias Vanhanen to extend the lead to 4–2, which would stand as the final. Rockets Forward Ty Halaburda left the game after a collision in the third period. Updates will be provided on his status shortly. ADDITIONAL STATS Shots on Goal: Kelowna 39 | Everett 38 Power Play: Kelowna 0/6 | Everett 2/3 Faceoffs: Kelowna 33 | Everett 38 UP NEXT The Rockets will now return to Prospera Place for games three and four. Game three is scheduled for Tuesday, April 14th at 7:05 pm PST. Game four is the following night on April 15th at 7:05pm PST. Tickets for both games are available on selectyourtickets.com.

ISight Optometry Game Recap: Rockets Fall Game One to Silvertips

Paige Bednorz — Sat, 11 Apr 2026 05:08:28 +0000

The Kelowna Rockets dropped Game 1 of the second round in the 2026 WHL Playoffs, falling 4–1 to trail the series 1–0. Ty Halaburda scored his first goal of the postseason, while goaltender Harrison Boettiger made 36 saves in the loss. Kelowna will have an opportunity to split the series in Everett with a win in Game 2 tomorrow night. BOXSCORE | HIGHLIGHTS GAME SUMMARY The opening frame featured a fast-paced start from both teams, with plenty of scoring chances at both ends. The first ten minutes remained scoreless before Everett struck first, as Shea Busch (2) scored on the powerplay at 11:50 to give the Silvertips the first lead of the series. Dawson Gerwing appeared to respond later in the period, but his goal was waved off, and Everett carried a 1–0 lead into the second. Kelowna answered quickly in the middle frame, as Ty Halaburda (1) scored just 23 seconds in with a beautiful shot for his first of the playoffs to tie the game. However, the Silvertips regained the lead minutes later when Matias Vanhanen (4) won a puck battle infront of the Rockets net to make it 2–1 at 4:20. Everett extended their lead at 16:14, with Julius Miettinen (5) finishing a breakaway to make it 3–1 heading into the third period. In the third, the only goal came on an Everett empty-netter at 18:17, as Vanhanen (5) scored his second of the night. Goaltender Harrison Boettiger made 36 saves on 39 shots, continuing his strong play. ADDITIONAL STATS Shots on Goal: Kelowna 22 Everett 40 Power Play: Kelowna 0/5 | Everett 1/3 Faceoffs: Kelowna 33 | Everett 41 UP NEXT Game 2 is set for Saturday, April 11 at 6:05 PM PST and will be available to watch for free on Victory+ and 104.7 The Lizard. The series will then shift back to Prospera Place for Games 3 and 4 on April 14th and 15th.

Series Preview: Rockets Battle Silvertips In Second Round Matchup

Paige Bednorz — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 23:48:27 +0000

After sweeping the Kamloops Blazers, the Kelowna Rockets will face the Everett Silvertips in the second round of the 2026 WHL Playoffs. The Silvertips are coming off a first-round sweep of the Portland Winterhawks after finishing the regular season atop the CHL, making them a formidable opponent. This matchup marks the first WHL playoff meeting between the two teams since 2010, when the Rockets defeated Everett in seven games. Although Kelowna lost every regular-season meeting against the Silvertips, they scored first and held the lead in each contest. Excluding their third matchup, the Rockets led for roughly 65% of the season series, demonstrating how often they controlled play despite the losses. ROUND 1 SCHEDULE

Game 1: Kelowna @ Everett Friday, April 10th, 7:05pm PST
Game 2: Kelowna @ Everett Saturday, April 11th, 6:05pm PST
Game 3: Everett @ Kelowna Tuesday, April 14th, 7:05pm PST
Game 4: Everett @ Kelowna Wednesday, April 15th, 7:05pm PST
Game 5: Kelowna @ Everett Friday, April 17th, 7:05pm PST
Game 6: Everett @ Kelowna Sunday April 19th, 5:05pm PST
Game 7: Kelowna @ Everett Tuesday, April 21th, 7:05pm PST

KELOWNA ROCKETS The Kelowna Rockets finished the season as the fourth seed in the Western Conference with a 38-21-6-3 record. After sweeping the Kamloops Blazers in the first round, the Rockets aim to reach the WHL’s Western Conference Final for the first time since 2017. Kelowna outscored the Blazers 21-8 in the opening round and will look to carry that momentum into the second round. Utah Mammoth first round pick Tij Iginla had a massive first round, recording 5 goals and 5 assists for 10 points in four games. He led the Rockets in the regular season with 90 points and a WHL-high 1.88 points per game. Czech rookie Vojtech Cihar scored six goals and added four assists in the first round, currently ranking second in playoff goals. Together, Iginla and Cihar the Rockets Dynamic Duo combined for three game-winning goals in the first round and remain the team’s most dangerous offensive threats. Overage forwards Ty Halaburda (0G, 3A) and Shane Smith (0G, 2A) have yet to score in the playoffs, but their combined 62 goals and 132 points during the regular season make them key contributors. Captain Carson Wetsch (2G, 0A) added leadership while his 72 points this season ranked him second on the team in point production. Hayden Paupanekis (1G, 2A) had a strong first round, winning 62% of his faceoffs. The Rockets’ blue line is anchored by WHL veteran Mazden Leslie (0G, 2A), who led defensemen in scoring this season with 18 goals and 68 points. Leslie has played 30 career games against Everett and will be relied upon heavily in this series. Vancouver Canucks draft pick Parker Alcos (0G, 3A) was +8 in the first round and is expected to be a key presence on defense. Keith McInnis (0G, 2A) added two assists in game four and looks to continue that momentum. Other key defensemen—Nate Corbet (1G, 3A), Rowan Guest (1G, 3A), and Jacob Henderson (1G, 1A)—combined for 10 points in the first round, providing a strong offensive boost from the back end. Harrison Boettiger (2.00 GAA, .934 SV%) was outstanding in the first round, stopping 114 of 122 shots. He has won 11 of his last 13 games, posting a save percentage below .930 in only two of those contests. WHERE THEY RANK

Kelowna Rockets: 4th in the Western Conference (38-19-6-3)
Everett Silvertips: 1st in the Western Conference (57-8-2-1)

Everett Silvertips The Silvertips are coming off back-to-back seasons of winning the Scotty Munro Memorial Trophy as regular season champions in the WHL. The Silvertips featured five 70+ point scorers this season. They swept the Winterhawks in the first round, outscoring them 25-5. Offensively, they are led by Matias Vanhanen (4G, 2A), who also led the team in scoring during the regular season with 87 points in 62 games. Detroit Red Wings 2025 first-round pick Carter Bear (0G, 6A) had 36 goals and 77 points in 53 games but is yet to score in his 18 career playoff games. Julius Miettinen (4G, 2A) had a monster season for Everett, with a +60 rating the highest among forwards in the WHL. Defensively, the Silvertips are led by Landon Dupont (2G, 4A). Dupont, granted exceptional status in the 2024 WHL Prospects Draft, is the favourite to go first overall in the 2027 NHL Entry Draft. His 73 points were tied for fourth among WHL defensemen this season. Tarin Smith (0G, 2A) also had a productive season from the blueline, posting 71 points and the highest plus-minus in the league. In net, Anders Miller (1.25 GAA, .949 SV%) allowed just five goals in the first round and was one of the top goalies in the WHL this season. His 31 wins were second in the league. INSIDE THE NUMBERS Head-to-Head Season Series Kelowna vs. Everett- 0-3-1-0

Game 1: Saturday, October, 18th, 2025 (vs Everett ) — Everett won 3-2
Game 2: Sunday, November, 16th, 2025 (at Everett) — Everett won 3-2 OT
Game 3: Friday, November, 21st, 2025 (vs Everett — Everett won 6-3
Game 4: Wednesday, January, 21st 2026 (at Everett) — Everett won 5-3

Playoff History

2010 First Round: Kelowna won in seven games.
2006 Second Round: Everett won in six games.
2004 Conference Finals: Everett won in six games

Special Teams (PLAYOFF PERCENTAGES) Kelowna: PP 25% | PK 80.% Everett: PP 29.41% | PK 70% HOME AND AWAY COMPARISON: The Rockets are 38-21-6-3, including an 19-8-5-2 record at the Prospera Place. On the road this year, the Rockets have an 19-13-1-1 record. The Silvertips are 57-8-2-1, including a 28-3-2-1 record at home. On the road this year the Silvertips have a 29-5-0-0 record. PLAYER OF THE YEAR FINALIST: Kelowna Rockets Forward Tij Iginla was named a finalist for the Four Broncos Memorial Trophy for WHL Player of the Year. The 19-year-old product of Lake Country, B.C., returned following an injury-shortened 2024-25 season to lead the WHL in points per game (1.88), registering 90 points (41G-49A) in 48 games with the Rockets. The 6-foot-1, 195-pound centre established new career highs in both assists and points, best his previous marks from 2023-24 when he tallied 37 assists and 84 points in 64 games. Iginla finished sixth in both goals and points among all WHL skaters. Selected by the Utah Mammoth in the first round (sixth overall) of the 2024 NHL Draft, Iginla has played 184 career WHL regular season games, posting 225 points (108G-117A). HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR FINALIST: Kelowna Rockets Forward Shane Smith was named a finalist for the Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy for WHL Humanitarian of the Year. The 21-year-old product of Cessford, Alta., boasted a career campaign in Kelowna, collecting 68 points (33G-35A) in 61 games. Leading by example with school visits, fan engagement, Smith made a personal pledge this season, donating $25 for each point he scored to the Canadian CMV Foundation, in honour of his niece, Maia, who was diagnosed with congenital CMV at birth. In total, Smith donated $1,675, and in the process raised awareness of congenital CMV – a common viral infection that can pass from mother to baby during pregnancy. CMV can cause health problems in some babies, which is why awareness, prevention, and early detection are important. CMV impacts one in 200 newborns in Canada. EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR FINALIST: Kelowna Rockets President and General Manager Bruce Hamilton was named a finalist for the Lloyd Saunders Memorial Trophy for WHL’s Executive of the Year. In his 35th season as the ultimate architect of the Kelowna Rockets, 68-year-old Bruce Hamilton designed a team worthy of hosting the 2026 Memorial Cup. Hamilton’s Rockets finished fourth in the WHL’s Western Conference, going 38-21-6-3. Prior to puck drop this season, Hamilton added San Jose Sharks prospect Carson Wetsch, along with veteran blueliner Mazden Leslie. Before the 2026 WHL Trade Deadline passed, Hamilton had bolstered his depth and veteran presence with the addition of Vancouver Canucks prospect Parker Alcos, Shane Smith, Ty Halaburda, and others. Two of Hamilton’s savviest moves came in the form of imports – during the 2025 CHL Import Draft, he selected New York Islanders prospect Tomas Poletin with the first-overall pick; later in the campaign, he acquired Los Angeles Kings prospect Vojtech Cihar via trade and was successful in recruiting him to Kelowna following the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship. The offseason also saw Hamilton recruit U.S.-born netminder Harrison Boettiger, who is on the radar for the 2026 NHL Draft. Over his WHL career, Hamilton has won four WHL Championships, one Memorial Cup, and has been named WHL Executive of the Year on two occasions (1992-93, 2002-03). UPCOMING SCHEDULE:

Game 1 of the second round is set for Friday, April 10 at Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett, with puck drop scheduled for 7:05 PM PST. Game 2 will follow on Saturday, April 11 at 6:05 PM PST. Both games will be available to fans for free on Victory+ and 104.7 The Lizard.

The series will then shift back to Kelowna for Games 3 and 4 on April 14 and 15, with both games scheduled for 7:05 PM. Tickets for both matchups are available at selectyourtickets.com.

Kelowna Rockets Announce Second Round Playoff Schedule vs Everett Silvertips

Paige Bednorz — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 17:00:35 +0000

KELOWNA, BC – The Kelowna Rockets have announced their full Second Round schedule for the 2026 WHL Playoffs, where they will take on the Everett Silvertips in a highly anticipated matchup. Kelowna will open the series on the road in Everett for Games 1 and 2 before the series shifts back to Kelowna for Games 3 and 4 at Prospera Place.

Second Round Schedule
Game 1: Kelowna @ Everett – Friday, April 10 – 7:05 PM PT
Game 2: Kelowna @ Everett – Saturday, April 11 – 6:05 PM PT
Game 3: Everett @ Kelowna – Tuesday, April 14 – 7:05 PM PT
Game 4: Everett @ Kelowna – Wednesday, April 15 – 7:05 PM PT
Game 5: Kelowna @ Everett – Friday, April 17 – 7:05 PM PT *If necessary
Game 6: Everett @ Kelowna – Sunday, April 19 – 5:05 PM PT *If necessary
Game 7: Kelowna @ Everett – Tuesday, April 21 – 7:05 PM PT *If necessary

This series adds another chapter to the playoff history between the Rockets and Silvertips. The two clubs have met three times in the postseason, with Everett holding the edge. The Silvertips defeated Kelowna in the 2004 Western Conference Final in six games during the Rockets' Memorial Cup-winning season and again in the 2006 Second Round in six games. Kelowna earned it's lone series win in 2010, defeating Everett in seven games in the First Round.

Playoff tickets for Games 3 and 4 at Prospera Place are available now at selectyourtickets.com.

ISight Optometry Game Recap: Rockets Sweep Blazers and Advance to the Second Round

Paige Bednorz — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 05:33:25 +0000

The Kelowna Rockets became the first team in the WHL to punch their ticket to the second round, completing a commanding series sweep of the Kamloops Blazers with a 6-2 victory Wednesday night. Vojtech Cihar led the way once again with two goals, capping off a dominant series in which he recorded six goals and ten points in just four games. Keith McInnis also contributed offensively, picking up a pair of assists in the win. BOXSCORE | HIGHLIGHTS GAME SUMMARY The opening frame was a very tight checking as the Blazers controlled most of the play. It took just 2:04 for Tommy Lafreniere (1) to capitalize on the powerplay and give Kamloops a 1-0 lead. Kelowna responded late in the period, finding some life before the intermission. Vojtech Cihar (5) buried a rebound at 18:19 to tie the game 1-1, with Tij Iginla and Keith McInnis picking up the assists. Despite the goal, it was an off period for the Rockets, who were outshot 17-8. The second period saw a much stronger push from Kelowna as they flipped the momentum. Hayden Paupanekis (1) struck on the powerplay at 4:06 with a wicked shot to give the Rockets their first lead at 2-1. Keith McInnis and Parker Alcos added assists. Later in the frame, Dawson Gerwing (2) continued his hot streak, scoring for the second straight game at 16:30 to extend the lead to 3-1. Nate Corbet and Hiroki Gojsic were credited with the helpers. The Rockets carried that 3-1 advantage into the second intermission. In the third, Kelowna pulled away for good. Tomas Poletin (1) scored in tight off a turnover from the Blazers goaltender just 4:26 into the period, making it 4-1. Vojtech Cihar then added his second of the night at 6:47 to push the lead to 5-1. The Blazers answered with Tommy Lafreniere’s (2) second of the game to cut it to 5-2, but that was as close as they would get. With under three minutes remaining, captain Carson Wetsch (2) sealed the win—and the series—with a goal at 17:16, assisted by Rowan Guest. The Rockets finished 1-for-3 on the power play, while the Blazers went 1-for-2. Goaltender Harrison Boettiger was solid once again, stopping 31 of 33 shots in the victory. He closed out the series with a perfect 4-0 record, along with an impressive 2.00 goals-against average and a .934 save percentage. ADDITIONAL STATS Shots on Goal: Kelowna 30 | Kamloops 33 Power Play: Kelowna 1/3 | Kamloops 1/2 Faceoffs: Kelowna 22 | Kamloops 35 UP NEXT The Rockets will now wait to find out who they will play in the second round of the 2026 WHL Playoffs.