WHL Playoffs Top Performer: May 11, 2024
Not only is he the Ringmaster of the Firkus Circus.
He’s also the Ringmaster of the 2024 WHL Championship Series presented by Nutrien.
Recording three points (two goals–one assist) in the Moose Jaw Warriors’ Game 2 win over the Portland Winterhawks, Jagger Firkus has been nearly unstoppable since he touched down in Portland, Ore.
After recording an assist in the opening game of the WHL Championship, Firkus exploded into the scoresheet on Saturday night.
Already leading the Winterhawks by two goals late in the second period, the Seattle Kraken prospect aimed to close out the game for the visitors by connecting with longtime linemate Brayden Yager. A spin pass from Firkus on the offensive blueline found the fellow NHL prospect alone in the slot, allowing the deadly duo to bolster the Warriors’ lead by three.
The Jagger–Yager connection has landed at the 2024 #WHLChampionship Series!@MJWARRIORS | @penguins | @SeattleKraken | #FeedingtheFuture pic.twitter.com/KoJcyIAyM7
— The WHL (@TheWHL) May 12, 2024
The Winterhawks had other plans, however. A late, second-period goal by Nate Danielson erased the momentum built by Firkus and Yager.
This was the stage where Firkus took matters into his own hands.
Just 15 seconds into the third period, the 19-year-old swatted down a clearing attempt by the Winterhawks before zipping home his 13th goal of the WHL Playoffs.
Momentum is real and it can be dangerous.
Of course, it only works when Jagger Firkus isn't on the ice!@MJWARRIORS | @SeattleKraken | #WHLChampionship | #FeedingtheFuture pic.twitter.com/EhVGQ0kCxQ
— The WHL (@TheWHL) May 12, 2024
The momentum-crushing blow by the WHL’s Player of the Year was followed up by an even larger, more deadlier dagger.
Cashing in on a quick give-and-go passing play with defenceman Kalem Parker, Firkus’ second of the night and 14th of the postseason was the extra insurance marker the Warriors needed to close out Game 2.
With 31 points (14 goals–17 assists) in 18 postseason contests, the product of Irma, Alta. has surpassed teammate Denton Mateychuk for the sole lead in points at the 2024 WHL Playoffs. Earlier this season, Firkus was the recipient of the Bob Clarke Trophy, as the WHL’s Top Scorer for the 2023-24 regular season.
Firkus and the Warriors will now head home to Moose Jaw, Sask., for the next leg of the 2024 WHL Championship Series.
Game 3 is scheduled for Tuesday, May 14 at 8:00 p.m. MT.
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