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WHL Spokane Chiefs

Chiefs' Playoff Push on Hold as Spokane Falls to Portland, 3-2

March 13, 2024 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Spokane Chiefs News Release


Spokane, Wash. - The Spokane Chiefs kicked off a busy week on Tuesday night, playing the first of a four-game stretch over the next six days. It was the first game versus division leading Portland since late January and the final game between the teams during the the 2023-24 regular season. The Chiefs entered the night needing just one more point to ensure a playoff berth after a one-year postseason absence.

Portland carried the momentum early in the game, firing 19 shots in the first period, scoring twice. Cagnoni tallied his 14th and 15th goals of the season with assists from Buttazzoni, Zakreski, and Stefan.

Stefan would continue the pressure in the second period, adding a third Winterhawks' goal to make it 3-0 at 5:34. Jugnauth and Sotheran provided the assists.

The Chiefs would get on the board at 14:24 with the 41st of the season from Conner Roulette.

That goal continues the veteran's career season, giving him 98 points on the year so far. Both teams were 0/3 on the power play through two frames with Portland leading the shot count 34-15 after the second.

Spokane would make it interesting late in the third. The Chiefs found yet another short-handed goal off the stick of Berkly Catton for his 50th of the season.

His 50 goals are tied for second in the league while his 7th short-handed goal of the year is good for first in the category. Spokane doubled the Winterhawks in shots for the third period, 12-6, but could not find the tying goal. Spokane finished the night 5/5 on the PK with Cooper Michaluk outstanding in net despite the three goals against. He tallied 37 saves after recording 36 in his last outing.

Spokane's quest for a playoff spot will continue when they visit Wenatchee on Friday. The Chiefs will return home for a pair of games starting on Saturday, March 16th. It will be a special 6:30 PM puck drop for the Miller Lite Saint Paddy's Day Jersey Sweepstakes and Avista Way To Save Poster Series Giveaway. The team will wear specialty Irish-themed jerseys that will be auctioned off with proceeds benefiting Big Table Spokane. Fans can also enter to win a blank replica specialty jersey courtesy of Miller Lite. Make sure to arrive early to claim a limited-edition Berkly Catton poster courtesy of Avista, while supplies last. Sunday is the regular season home finale with a rally towel giveaway and family feast night provided by Coeur d'Alene Casino.

Make sure to allocate any Never Wasted or Flex Pack tickets before the end of the regular season. They do not carry over to playoffs or next season.

Check out the Spokane Chiefs Statistics



Western Hockey League Stories from March 13, 2024


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