For the first time since the 2018, the Brandt Centre will be the site of Western Hockey League playoff hockey action when the Regina Pats host the Saskatoon Blades tonight in Game 3 of their first-round series.
The Pats return to home ice with 2-0 series lead after a pair of road victories on the weekend at the SaskTel Centre.
It’s expected to be another packed crowd in the Queen City, which has become commonplace for the Pats in the second half of the season.
But tonight will mark the first home playoff game for the majority of the players, which has the team feeling ecstatic according to Connor Bedard.
“None of our guys have been in a playoff game in the Brandt (Centre) so we’re really excited for that. Our fans have been so good all year so kind of can’t wait to see what they bring.”
The last four matchups between the two clubs, including the pair of playoff matchups have taken place in the Bridge City. Goalie Drew Sim is hoping Regina is able to create the right atmosphere in Game 3.
“Saskatoon set the bar pretty high so we need an answer from the old orange top.”
With a possibility of the Blades falling down 3-0 in the series with a loss tonight, the Pats know they will be dealing with a desperate team says Sim.
“Their backs are starting to go up against the wall so their season is on the line, they’re a good team.”
Special teams has been in Regina’s favour through the first two games of the series. The penalty kill has been perfect so far going 6 for 6 while the power play chipped in two goals in Sunday’s Game 2. Zack Stringer scored both goals on the extra man advantage including the game-winning-goal.
A win tonight would mark some uncharted territory for the Pats in their playoff history against Saskatoon. The Pats have never jumped to a 3-0 series lead against the provincial rival. The last time Regina had 2-0 series lead over Saskatoon was in the 1974 playoffs.
620 CKRM will have coverage of Game 3 beginning with the SportsCage emulating from the Brandt Centre beginning at 3:00.
An extended pre-game show will begin at 6:10, Dante De Caria will have the play-by-play at 7:00.
The two teams will meet in Game 4 on Wednesday night.
