ST. PAUL – The St. Paul Canadiens have been on fire moving into the 2025 North Eastern Alberta Jr. B Hockey League playoffs.
In the first round of playoffs, the Canadiens eliminated the Cold Lake Ice in four straight games, advancing to face the top-seeded Wainwright Bisons in the second round.
The Bisons have consistently remained at the top of the standings throughout the regular season, winning a total of 28 games and recording only four losses prior to the playoffs.
On Feb. 27 in Wainwright, the Canadiens struck first. Forward Kelton McAuley, one of the Canadiens’ top scorers, scored the team’s first goal with about four minutes left in the first period, assisted by Conor Goofers,
The Bisons responded early in the second period, leveling the score, 1-1. But the Canadiens seized momentum, netting five goals, ending the period, 6-2.
The offensive continued in the third period, with the Canadiens ultimately securing a 9-4 victory.
It was a heated first game between the two teams. A total of 20 penalties were given, with each team receiving 10. Notably, Goofers received a three-game suspension, sidelining him until March 8.
The Bisons rebounded in Game 2, which took place on March 1 in Wainwright. The game was no less intense with 15 penalties given - eight for the Bisons, and seven for the Canadiens.
The Bison remained consistent throughout and won 5-0.
The series now moves to the Clancy Richard Arena, where the Canadiens are set to host Game 3 on March 4, and Game 4 on March 7.
