HARTFORD, CT – The 2023-24 regular season has ended. The Hartford Wolf Pack wrapped up the campaign with three games over the weekend, their final preparation for the upcoming 2024 Calder Cup Playoffs.

The Pack are enjoying a well-deserved day off on Monday. On-ice preparation will begin tomorrow for the First Round of the Calder Cup Playoffs.

Friday, April 19^th, 2024, Vs. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (3-2 W): The Wolf Pack ended the home portion of their season with a sweep of a three-game homestand on Friday night.

Bryan Yoon scored his second goal of the season 17:26 into the second period, burying a rebound after Joel Blomqvist denied a Bobby Trivigno shot from the right-wing circle.

Nikolas Brouillard made it 2-0 Wolf Pack 43 seconds into the third period, snapping a shot by Blomqvist’s glove for his fifth goal of the season.

The Penguins responded with two goals in 39 seconds, stunning the crowd and tying the game 2-2. Jack Rathbone waited out a sliding defender before snapping his ninth goal of the season by Louis Domingue at 7:58, making it a 2-1 game.

Thirty-nine seconds later, at 8:37, Austin Rueschhoff poked home a rebound for his 15^th season goal to tie the game 2-2.

The Penguins got into penalty trouble late, however, taking slashing minors at 12:04 and 12:59. With Taylor Fedun and Dmitri Samorukov in the penalty box, the Wolf Pack took advantage of the ensuing five-on-three. Nic Petan blasted a one-timer from the right-wing circle that snuck by Blomqvist at 13:22. The goal, PetaPetPetaPetan’shh, proved to be the game-winner.

The Wolf Pack wrapped up their head-to-head series with the Penguins with two straight wins, finishing with a record of 3-3-0-0. The Penguins went 3-2-1-0 in the series. The home team dominated the season slate, going a perfect 6-0-0-0.

Saturday, April 20^th, 2024, @ Springfield Thunderbirds (6-4 W): The Wolf Pack earned a split of the “-R’val’y”y’ Sa’uon’Saturdayday battling back on four separate occasions to knock off the Thunderbirds 6-4.

Springfield held leads of 1-0, 2-1, 3-2, and 4-3 but was unable to pull away in the season finale.

SahPanwPanPanwPanwar’sstsst AHL goal at 9:58 of the third period tied the game 4-4, as the rookie forward tipped in a shot from Blake Hillman to quiet the crowd once again. 2:06 later, at 12:04, Brennan Othmann gave the Wolf Pack their first lead of the night when he weaved into the slot sniped his 21^st goal of the seasoOthmOthOthmOthmann’slssls second of the night and completed a three-point outing (2 g, 1 a).

Adam Sýkora hit the empty net at 18:36, completing the comeback for the Wolf Pack.

Defenseman Mac Hollowell picked up his 40^th season assist as part of a two-point (1 g, 1 a) performance. He became the first Wolf Pack player since Taylor Beck in 2016-17 to record 40 assists in a single season. He was also a +5 in the game, which tied the franchise record for best single-game +/-.

Victor Mancini recorded the first two assists of his professional career in the victory. He finished the night with a career-high +4 rating.

Goaltender Hugo Ollas, who made his professional debut in the game, made 14 saves to collect his first career victory.

Sunday, April 21^st, 2024, @ Providence Bruins (4-2 L): Jake Leschyshyn and Blake Hillman each scored SundSunSundSunday’ssonson, but a third-period goal by the Bruins would give Providence the last laugh in the ten-game season series.

Nick Zabaneh, who had signed an amateur tryout agreement (ATO) earlier in the day, converted a feed from Patrick Brown at 11:11 of the third period. The goaZabaZabZabaZabaneh’sstrofessionalnal, proved to be the game-winner.

Georgii Merkulov hit the empty net at 18:38, earning his first career 30-goal season and the first by a Bruin since Frank Vatrano in 2015-16.

Quick Hit’s ssists was the first by a Wolf Pack defenseman since Andrew Hutchinson in 2007-08. He finished second in the league among defensemen in assists withManiManManiManitoba’seancoeanco led the league with 42.

• Berard’s goal season ason was the second most by a rookie, trailing only Josh Doan of the Tucson Roadrunners (26). It is the first time since Ryan Callahan in 2006-07 that a Wolf Pack rookie finished in the top three in goal scoring.
• The Wolf Pack finished the 2023-24 season with a record of 34-28-7-3, good for 78 points and a fifth-place finish in the Atlantic Division.
• Forward Alex Belzile led the Wolf Pack in scoring in his first year with the club. He finished with 50 points (19 g, 31 a).

The Week Ahead:

• Thursday, April 25^th, 2024, @ Charlotte Checkers (Game 1, 7:00 p.m., Bojangles Coliseum)
• Saturday, April 27^th, 2024, @ Charlotte Checkers (Game 2, 4:00 p.m., Bojangles Coliseum)
• Sunday, April 28^th, 2024, @ Charlotte Checkers (Game 3*, 4:00 p.m., Bojangles Coliseum)

* If nec.

About OVG360: OVG360, a division of Oak View Group, is a full-service venue management and hospitality company that helps client-partners reimagine the sports, live entertainment, and convention industries for the betterment of the venue, employees, artists, athletes, and surrounding communities. With a portfolio of more than 200 client-partners spanning arenas, stadiums, convention centers, performing arts centers, cultural institutions, and state fairs around the globe, OVG360 provides a set of services, resources and expertise designed to elevate every aspect of business that matters to venue operators. Service-oriented and driven by social responsibility, OVG360 helps facilities drive value through excellence and innovation in food services, booking and content development, sustainable operations, public health and safety, and more.

ABOUT THE HARTFORD WOLF PACK: The Hartford Wolf Pack has been a premier franchise in the American Hockey League since the team’s selection. It is the top player-development affiliate of the NHL and plays at the XL Center. The Wolf Pack has been home to some of Ranger’s newest faces, including Igor Shesterkin, Filip Chytil, and Ryan Lindgren. Follow the Wolf Pack on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

#BackThePack

The Wolf Pack are on the Hunt for the Calder Cup. Click here to view our Playoff Central.

HARTFORD WOLF PACK

HOME

The post WOLF PACK WEEKEND RECAP: APRIL 22nd, 2024 first appeared on Howlings.

By: Jason Chaimovich, American Hockey League

SPRINGFIELD, MA – The AHL Playoff Games begin on Tuesday:

OPENING SCHEDULES ANNOUNCED FOR 2024 CALDER CUP PLAYOFFS

The American Hockey League has released the following schedules for the 2024 Calder Cup Playoffs opening series, including the best-of-three First Round and the best-of-five Division Semifinals.

Atlantic Division First Round (best-of-3)

A3-Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins vs. A6-Lehigh Valley Phantoms

Game 1 – Wed., Apr. 24 – Lehigh Valley at W-B/Scranton, 7:05

Game 2 – Fri., Apr. 26 – W-B/Scranton at Lehigh Valley, 7:05

*Game 3 – Sun., Apr. 28 – Lehigh Valley at W-B/Scranton, 5:05

*if necessary… All times Eastern

Atlantic Division First Round (best-of-3)

A4-Charlotte Checkers vs. A5-Hartford Wolf Pack

Game 1 – Thu., Apr. 25 – Hartford at Charlotte, 7:00

^Game 2 – Sat., Apr. 27 – Hartford at Charlotte, 4:00

*Game 3 – Sun., Apr. 28 – Hartford at Charlotte, 4:00

*if necessary… All times Eastern

lower seed designated as the “home” team for the last change

North Division First Round (best-of-3)

N4-Belleville Senators vs. N5-Toronto Marlies

Game 1 – Wed., Apr. 24 – Toronto at Belleville, 7:00

Game 2 – Fri., Apr. 26 – Belleville at Toronto, 7:00

*Game 3 – Sun., Apr. 28 – Toronto at Belleville, 3:00

*if necessary… All times Eastern

Central Division First Round (best-of-3)

C4-Texas Stars vs. C5-Manitoba Moose

Game 1 – Tue., Apr. 23 – Manitoba at Texas, 8:00

^Game 2 – Thu., Apr. 25 – Manitoba at Texas, 8:00

*Game 3 – Fri., Apr. 26 – Manitoba at Texas, 8:00

*if necessary… All times Eastern

The lower seed was designated as the “home” team for the last change

Pacific Division First Round (best-of-3)

P2-Tucson Roadrunners vs. P7-Calgary Wranglers

Game 1 – Wed., Apr. 24 – Calgary at Tucson, 10:00

^Game 2 – Fri., Apr. 26 – Calgary at Tucson, 10:00

*Game 3 – Sun., Apr. 28 – Calgary at Tucson, 10:00

*if necessary… All times Eastern

The lower seed was designated as the “home” team for the last change

Pacific Division First Round (best-of-3)

P3-Ontario Reign vs. P6-Bakersfield Condors

Game 1 – Wed., Apr. 24 – Bakersfield at Ontario, 10:00

Game 2 – Sat., Apr. 27 – Ontario at Bakersfield, 10:00

*Game 3 – Sun., Apr. 28 – Bakersfield at Ontario, 8:00

*if necessary… All times Eastern

Pacific Division First Round (best-of-3)

P4-Colorado Eagles vs. P5-Abbotsford Canucks

Game 1 – Wed., Apr. 24 – Abbotsford at Colorado, 9:05

^Game 2 – Fri., Apr. 26 – Abbotsford at Colorado, 9:05

*Game 3 – Sun., Apr. 28 – Abbotsford at Colorado, 5:05

*if necessary… All times Eastern

Lower seed was designated as the “home” team for lat change

Atlantic Division Semifinals (best-of-5)

A1-Hershey Bears vs. CLT/HFD/LV

Atlantic Division Semifinals (best-of-5)

A2-Providence Bruins vs. WBS/CLT/HFD

North Division Semifinals (best-of-5)

N1-Cleveland Monsters vs. BEL-TOR winner

North Division Semifinals (best-of-5)

N2-Rochester Americans vs. N3-Syracuse Crunch

Game 1 – Fri., Apr. 26 – Syracuse at Rochester, 7:05

Game 2 – Sun., Apr. 28 – Syracuse at Rochester, 3:05

Game 3 – Thu., May 2 – Rochester at Syracuse, 7:00

*Game 4 – Sat., May 4 – Rochester at Syracuse, 7:00

*Game 5 – Fri., May 10 – Syracuse at Rochester, 7:05

*if necessary… All times Eastern

Central Division Semifinals (best-of-5)

C1-Milwaukee Admirals vs. TEX-MB winner

Central Division Semifinals (best-of-5)

C2-Grand Rapids Griffins vs. C3-Rockford IceHogs

Game 1 – Sat., Apr. 27 – Grand Rapids at Rockford, 8:00

Game 2 – Wed., May 1 – Rockford at Grand Rapids, 7:00

Game 3 – Fri., May 3 – Rockford at Grand Rapids, 7:00

*Game 4 – Sun., May 5 – Grand Rapids at Rockford, 5:00

*Game 5 – Fri., May 10 – Rockford at Grand Rapids, 7:00

*if necessary… All times Eastern

Pacific Division Semifinals (best-of-5)

P1-Coachella Valley Firebirds vs. COL/ABB/BAK/CGY

Pacific Division Semifinals (best-of-5)

TUC/ONT/COL/ABB vs. ONT/COL/ABB/BAK

Twenty-three teams qualified for the 2024 Calder Cup Playoffs. The first-round series are best-of-three, the division semifinals and division finals are best-of-five, and the conference finals and Calder Cup Finals will be best-of-seven.

All Calder Cup Playoff games will stream live on AHLTV.

In operation since 1936, the American Hockey League continues to serve as the top development league for all 32 National Hockey League teams. Nearly 90 percent of all players competing in the NHL are AHL graduates, and through the years, the American Hockey League has been home to more than 100 honored members of the Hockey Hall of Fame.

HARTFORD WOLF PACK

HOWLINGS

The post CALDER CUP PLAYOFF SCHEDULE RELEASED first appeared on Howlings.

By: Alex Thomas, Hartford Wolf Pack

PROVIDENCE, RI – The Hartford Wolf Pack concluded their 2023-24 regular season on Sunday afternoon at the Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence. A third-period tally from the home side proved the difference, as the Bruins took a 4-2 decision.

Patrick Brown drove down the right-wing side before threading a pass to the front of the net for Nick Zabaneh. Zabaneh, playing in his first professional hockey game after signing a professional tryout agreement earlier in the day, beat Dylan Garand at 11:11 of the third period. His first career goal proved to be the game-winner.

The Wolf Pack would surrender the game’s first goal for the second straight day. Trevor Kuntar rushed to the net this time, getting inside on a defenseman. Kuntar went to the backhand and stuffed home his tenth season goal at 13:29.

For the second straight game, the Wolf Pack responded quickly. Victor Mancini threaded a pass to Anton Blidh on the left-wing side, who worked his way into the left-wing circle. Blidh then fed Jake Leschyshyn in front, who buried his eighth season goal at 16:14.

1:28 later, Blake Hillman gave the Wolf Pack their first lead of the hockey game. Off a faceoff win, Mac Hollowell fed Hillman at the point. With Riley Nash and Alex Belzile providing screens in front, Hillman fired a shot into traffic that eluded Brandon Bussi to make it a 2-1 game at 17:42.

Nash, who won the faceoff, was awarded the secondary assist.

Georgii Merkulov’s team-leading 29^th goal of the season got the Bruins even 5:41 into the middle stanza. Garand denied Mason Lohrei’s blast from the high slot, but the rebound came right to Merkulov at the top of the crease. The All-Star forward smashed home the rebound, sending the sides to the final frame with a 2-2 score.

Zabaneh’s tally at 11:11 broke the tie for good, restoring the Bruins’ lead. Merkulov then completed the first 30-goal season of his career at 18:38, hitting an empty net to seal the deal.

The Wolf Pack opens the 2024 Calder Cup Playoffs this Thursday night! Game 1 of the club’s best-of-three First Round series will occur at the Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte, North Carolina, as the Wolf Pack battle the Charlotte Checkers.

The puck drop is set for 7:00 p.m.

For playoff information, please visit hartfordwolfpack.com/tickets/playoff-information.

About OVG360: OVG360, a division of Oak View Group, is a full-service venue management and hospitality company that helps client partners reimagine the sports, live entertainment, and convention industries for the betterment of the venue, employees, artists, athletes, and surrounding communities. With a portfolio of more than 200 client partners spanning arenas, stadiums, convention centers, performing arts centers, cultural institutions, and state fairs around the globe, OVG360 provides a set of services, resources, and expertise designed to elevate every aspect of business that matters to venue operators. Service-oriented and driven by social responsibility, OVG360 helps facilities drive value through excellence and innovation in food services, booking and content development, sustainable operations, public health and safety, and more.

ABOUT THE HARTFORD WOLF PACK: The Hartford Wolf Pack has been a premier franchise in the American Hockey League since its inception in 1997. The Wolf Pack is the top player-development affiliate of the NHL’s New York Rangers and plays at the XL Center. The Wolf Pack has been home to some of the Rangers’ newest faces, including Igor Shesterkin, Filip Chytil, and Ryan Lindgren. Follow the Wolf Pack on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

HARTFORD WOLF PACK

HOWLINGS

The post WOLF PACK DROP SEASON FINALE 4-2 TO BRUINS first appeared on Howlings.

By: Alex Thomas, Hartford Wolf Pack

HARTFORD, CT – New York Rangers Assistant General Manager and Hartford Wolf Pack General Manager Ryan Martin announced today that the club has signed defenseman Harrison Rees to a professional tryout agreement (PTO).

Rees, 24, appeared in 36 games with the University of Connecticut this season, scoring seven points (3 g, 4 a). After completing his collegiate career, Rees inked a deal with the ECHL’s Fort Wayne Komets.

The native of Mississauga, ON, has appeared in eight games with the Komets and recorded four points (2 g, 2 a). He scored his first professional goal in his debut on March 20^th against the Kalamazoo Wings.

The 6’2″, 174-pound defenseman appeared in 162 games over five seasons with the UConn Huskies, scoring 58 points (9 g, 49 a).

The Wolf Pack conclude the 2023-24 regular season this afternoon when they visit the Providence Bruins. The puck drop is set for 3:05 p.m., with coverage available on AHLTV and Mixlr starting at 2:50 p.m.

About OVG360: OVG360, a division of Oak View Group, is a full-service venue management and hospitality company that helps client partners reimagine the sports, live entertainment, and convention industries for the betterment of the venue, employees, artists, athletes, and surrounding communities. With a portfolio of more than 200 client partners spanning arenas, stadiums, convention centers, performing arts centers, cultural institutions, and state fairs around the globe, OVG360 provides a set of services, resources, and expertise designed to elevate every aspect of business that matters to venue operators. Service-oriented and driven by social responsibility, OVG360 helps facilities drive value through excellence and innovation in food services, booking and content development, sustainable operations, public health and safety, and more.

ABOUT THE HARTFORD WOLF PACK: The Hartford Wolf Pack has been a premier franchise in the American Hockey League since its inception in 1997. The Wolf Pack is the top player-development affiliate of the NHL’s New York Rangers and plays at the XL Center. The Wolf Pack has been home to some of the Rangers’ newest faces, including Igor Shesterkin, Filip Chytil, and Ryan Lindgren. Follow the Wolf Pack on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

HARTFORD WOLF PACK

HOWLINGS

The post WOLF PACK INK D HARRISON REES TO PTO first appeared on Howlings.

All Three Games to Take Place in North Carolina

By: Alex Thomas, Hartford Wolf Pack

HARTFORD, CT—The Hartford Wolf Pack and Charlotte Checkers will face off in an Atlantic Division first-round series to kick off the 2024 Calder Cup Playoffs. Due to the distance traveled, the First-Round series will be a best-of-three matchup, with all three games taking place in North Carolina.

The Checkers, who will finish fourth in the Atlantic Division during the regular season, hold the home-ice advantage and the right to host the series. They are 39-25-7-0 and will conclude their season against the Lehigh Valley Phantoms tomorrow afternoon.

The Wolf Pack will finish fifth in the Atlantic Division and are currently 34-27-7-3.

This is the first-ever meeting between the foes in the Calder Cup Playoffs. Since the Checkers entered the AHL in 2010, they have faced off 48 times in the regular season.

The series will kick off at the Bojangles Coliseum on Thursday night, April 25^th, with the puck drop set for 7:00 p.m.

The full Atlantic Division First Round series schedule is as follows:

Game 1: Thursday, April 25^th, @ Charlotte (Bojangles Coliseum, 7:00 p.m.)
Game 2: Saturday, April 27^th, @ Charlotte (Bojangles Coliseum, 4:00 p.m.)
Game 3*: Sunday, April 28^th, @ Charlotte (Bojangles Coliseum, 4:00 p.m.)
*If necessary

Despite the series taking place in Charlotte, Wolf Pack fans can still come to the XL Center to support their team for Game 1.

The Wolf Pack will host a watch party for Game 1 at the Center’s Sports Bar. The party will start at 6:30 p.m., and the game will begin at 7:00 p.m.

To learn more about Wolf Pack playoff ticket strips and stay up-to-date on everything related to the Calder Cup Playoffs, visit www.hartfordwolfpack.com/tickets/playoff-information.

About Oak View Group (OVG): Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in live experience venue development, management, premium hospitality services, and 360-degree solutions for a collection of world-class owned venues, and a client roster of arenas, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions. Established by Tim Leiweke and Irving Azoff in 2015, OVG is the leading developer of major new venues open or under development across four continents. Visit OakViewGroup.com, and follow OVG on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.

ABOUT THE HARTFORD WOLF PACK: The Hartford Wolf Pack has been a premier franchise in the American Hockey League since its inception in 1997. It is the top player-development affiliate of the NHL’s New York Rangers and plays at the XL Center. The Wolf Pack has been home to some of the Rangers’ newest faces, including Igor Shesterkin, Filip Chytil, and Ryan Lindgren. Follow the Wolf Pack on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

HARTFORD WOLF PACK

HOWLINGS

The post WOLF PACK TAKE ON CHARLOTTE CHECKERS IN FIRST ROUND first appeared on Howlings.

By: Alex Thomas, Hartford Wolf Pack

SPRINGFIELD, MA—On Saturday night at the MassMutual Center, The Hartford Wolf Pack earned their fourth straight victory and a split of the ‘I-91 Rivalry’ this season. The Wolf Pack came back on four different occasions before eventually completing the comeback in the third period, winning 6-4.

Brennan Othmann gave the Wolf Pack their first lead of the night 12:04 into the third period, scoring his 21^st goal of the season. Othmann weaved his way into the slot before rifling a shot by Vadim Zhernko’s glove. The goal proved to be Othmann’s fourth game-winning goal of the season.

The Thunderbirds opened the scoring 6:15 into the game, as Mathias Laferriere fired home his seventh goal of the season. Laferriere worked his way into the right-wing circle before beating goaltender Hugo Ollas with his blocker.

Just 57 seconds later, however, the Wolf Pack countered. Othmann snapped a shot by Zherenko’s glove from the left-wing circle, lighting the lamp for the 20^th time this season. Victor Mancini was credited with the lone assist on the goal at 7:12, the first point of his professional career.

The T-Birds regained the lead at 14:04, as the Wolf Pack failed to clear a puck. Matthew Kessel stepped into a blast that beat Ollas for his third goal of the season.

Once again, however, the Wolf Pack had an answer. Jaroslav Chmelař potted his second career professional goal at 17:27, converting on a breakaway. Chmelař went backhand-to-forehand before roofing a shot over Zhernko’s glove.

The Wolf Pack pushed hard for their first lead in the middle stanza, but Zherenko held firm before things settled down heading into the final five minutes. Zhernko made 13 saves in the period, preventing the Wolf Pack from gaining a lead.

Jakub Vrana gave the Thunderbirds their third lead of the night at 15:01, using his speed to gain a partial breakaway. Vrana drew a penalty on Nikolas Brouillard but didn’t need the man advantage. He finished it off right there, going to the backhand and beating Ollas through the five-hole for his 16^th goal of the season.

The Thunderbirds were awarded the game’s first powerplay at 17:20, as Othmann was whistled for boarding. After a solid kill, Mac Hollowell nearly sprang Othmann in on a breakaway after he exited the penalty box.

The pass harmlessly fluttered into the offensive zone, or so it seemed. Othmann turned on the jets, collected the puck, and fed Hollowell. Hollowell cut to the net, went to the backhand, and stuffed home his third goal of the season at 19:31 to tie things up again.

For the fourth time, the Thunderbirds took the lead. This time, a powerplay strike from Zach Dean at 2:50 of the third period made it a 4-3 game.

Sahil Panwar had the Wolf Pack’s fourth response, as he tipped in his first career AHL goal at 9:58. Blake Hillman stepped into a shot that Panwar deflected in front to make it a 4-4 game.

Othmann gave the Wolf Pack their first lead of the night at 12:04, completing a three-point effort (2 g, 1 a). Hollowell picked up his 40^th assist of the season, the first defenseman to accomplish the feat for the Wolf Pack since Andrew Hutchinson during the 2007-08 season.

Adam Sýkora completed the comeback at 18:36, hitting an empty net for his eighth goal of the season.

Ollas made 14 saves to collect the victory in his professional debut.

Hartford concludes the 2023-24 regular season tomorrow with a trip to Providence to take on the Bruins. The puck drop is set for 3:05 p.m.

# # #

About OVG360: OVG360, a division of Oak View Group, is a full-service venue management and hospitality company that helps client partners reimagine the sports, live entertainment, and convention industries for the betterment of the venue, employees, artists, athletes, and surrounding communities. With a portfolio of more than 200 client partners spanning arenas, stadiums, convention centers, performing arts centers, cultural institutions, and state fairs around the globe, OVG360 provides a set of services, resources, and expertise designed to elevate every aspect of business that matters to venue operators. Service-oriented and driven by social responsibility, OVG360 helps facilities drive value through excellence and innovation in food services, booking and content development, sustainable operations, public health and safety, and more.

ABOUT THE HARTFORD WOLF PACK: The Hartford Wolf Pack has been a premier franchise in the American Hockey League since its inception in 1997. The Wolf Pack is the top player-development affiliate of the NHL’s New York Rangers and plays at the XL Center. The Wolf Pack has been home to some of the Rangers’ newest faces, including Igor Shesterkin, Filip Chytil, and Ryan Lindgren. Follow the Wolf Pack on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

HARTFORD WOLF PACK

HOWLINGS

The post WOLF PACK BATTLE TO KNOCK OFF THUNDERBIRDS 6-4 first appeared on Howlings.

By: Alex Thomas, Hartford Wolf Pack

HARTFORD, CT – New York Rangers President and General Manager Chris Drury announced today that the club has recalled goaltender Louis Domingue and forward Adam Edström from the AHL’s Hartford Wolf Pack.

Domingue, 32, posted a record of 16-8-4 with a .909 save percentage, 2.66 goals against average, and one shutout in 28 games this season with the Wolf Pack. The native of Mont-Saint-Hilaire, QC, won each of his final three starts in the regular season.

Domingue scored the second goalie goal in Wolf Pack history on April 12^th against the Springfield Thunderbirds. His empty net tally at 19:37 of the third period helped the Wolf Pack secure their second consecutive Calder Cup Playoff berth.

In addition to his time with the Wolf Pack, Domingue appeared in one NHL game with the Rangers this season. He made 25 saves in a victory at Madison Square Garden against the Minnesota Wild on November 9^th, 2023.

Through two seasons with the Wolf Pack, Domingue has posted a record of 38-20-12 in 73 appearances.

Edström, 23, appeared in 40 games with the Wolf Pack this season, scoring 16 points (11 g, 5 a). He collected his first career multi-goal game in the AHL on April 14^th, striking both on the powerplay and shorthanded in the club’s 5-2 victory over the Charlotte Checkers.

The native of Karlstad, SWE, also notched a pair of goals in eleven games with the Rangers. He scored his first career NHL goal in his debut on December 15^th, 2023, against the Anaheim Ducks at Madison Square Garden.

The Wolf Pack concludes the 2023-24 regular season tomorrow afternoon when they visit the Providence Bruins. The puck drop is set for 3:05 p.m., and coverage will be available on AHLTV and Mixlr starting at 2:50 p.m.

# # #

About OVG360: OVG360, a division of Oak View Group, is a full-service venue management and hospitality company that helps client partners reimagine the sports, live entertainment, and convention industries for the betterment of the venue, employees, artists, athletes, and surrounding communities. With a portfolio of more than 200 client partners spanning arenas, stadiums, convention centers, performing arts centers, cultural institutions, and state fairs around the globe, OVG360 provides a set of services, resources, and expertise designed to elevate every aspect of business that matters to venue operators. Service-oriented and driven by social responsibility, OVG360 helps facilities drive value through excellence and innovation in food services, booking and content development, sustainable operations, public health and safety, and more.

ABOUT THE HARTFORD WOLF PACK: The Hartford Wolf Pack has been a premier franchise in the American Hockey League since its inception in 1997. The Wolf Pack is the top player-development affiliate of the NHL’s New York Rangers and plays at the XL Center. The Wolf Pack has been home to some of the Rangers’ newest faces, including Igor Shesterkin, Filip Chytil, and Ryan Lindgren. Follow the Wolf Pack on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

HARTFORD WOLF PACK

HOWLINGS

The post WOLF PACK SEND DOMINGUE & EDSTRÖM TO NY first appeared on Howlings.

By: Alex Thomas, Hartford Wolf Pack

HARTFORD, CT – On Friday night, Nic Petan broke a 2-2 tie with a five-on-three powerplay blast in the third period. The goal stood as the game-winner as the Wolf Pack defeated the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins 3-2 on Fan Appreciation Night at the XL Center in front of over 6,900 fans.

Two quick slashing calls on the Penguins gave Hartford 65 seconds of five-on-three time at the 12:59 mark of the third period. Petan ripped a one-timer by Joel Blomqvist for his 15^th goal of the season to give the Wolf Pack the lead for good. Nikolas Brouillard picked up the second of two points (1 g, 1 a) on the night with an assist on the goal, while Brett Berard’s secondary helper was his second of the night.

The Wolf Pack controlled the pace of play in the first period, outshooting the Penguins by a 12-3 margin. Each side also hit a goal post, as Case McCarthy struck the iron for the Wolf Pack before Matt Filipe countered for the visitors.

A late push from the Wolf Pack in the second period led to the icebreaker, as Bryan Yoon roofed his first goal at the XL Center at 17:26 to make it 1-0.

Bobby Trivigno wired a shot high off Blomqvist, who surrendered a rebound to his left. Yoon collected the loose puck and snapped it with the netminder’s glove for the second goal of his AHL career.

The Pack extended their lead 43 seconds into the third period as Petan found a pinching Brouillard. Brouillard sniped his fifth tally of the season over the glove of Blomqvist to make it 2-0 Wolf Pack. Alex Belzile picked up his 31^st assist and team-leading 50^th point of the season on the goal.

The Penguins pushed back, however, tying the game with two goals in just 39 seconds.

Jack Rathbone made an excellent play in the slot, waiting out a Wolf Pack defender before breaking Louis Domingue’s shutout bid at 7:58 to give the visitors some life. Austin Rueschhoff then evened the game as he muscled his way to the blue paint before stuffing home a rebound to make it a 2-2 hockey game.

The club’s timely five-on-three goal at 13:22 of the third period would be the difference, as the Pack’s answer was too much for the Penguins.

The victory was the Wolf Pack’s second in a row against the Penguins, as the sides split the season series with three wins each. The home team went 6-0-0-0 in the head-to-head matchup.

Thanks to the victory, the Wolf Pack now have an eleven-game (9-0-1-1) point streak at home against the Penguins.

Hartford concludes the 2023-24 regular season with road games against regional rivals. Tomorrow night, the Pack heads north to the MassMutual Center to take on the Springfield Thunderbirds. The puck drop is set for 7:05 p.m., and coverage will be available on both AHLTV and Mixlr.

About OVG360: OVG360, a division of Oak View Group, is a full-service venue management and hospitality company that helps client partners reimagine the sports, live entertainment, and convention industries for the betterment of the venue, employees, artists, athletes, and surrounding communities. With a portfolio of more than 200 client partners spanning arenas, stadiums, convention centers, performing arts centers, cultural institutions, and state fairs around the globe, OVG360 provides a set of services, resources, and expertise designed to elevate every aspect of business that matters to venue operators. Service-oriented and driven by social responsibility, OVG360 helps facilities drive value through excellence and innovation in food services, booking and content development, sustainable operations, public health and safety, and more.

ABOUT THE HARTFORD WOLF PACK: The Hartford Wolf Pack has been a premier franchise in the American Hockey League since its inception in 1997. The Wolf Pack is the top player-development affiliate of the NHL’s New York Rangers and plays at the XL Center. The Wolf Pack has been home to some of the Rangers’ newest faces, including Igor Shesterkin, Filip Chytil, and Ryan Lindgren. Follow the Wolf Pack on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

HARTFORD WOLF PACK

HOWLINGS

The post WOLF PACK GET PETAN PP BLAST TO BEAT PENGUINS first appeared on Howlings.

By: Mark Binetti, Greenville Swamp Rabbits

GREENVILLE, S.C. – The Greenville Swamp Rabbits, proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings, announced the full schedule for the 2024 Kelly Cup Playoffs opening round: the South Division Semifinals against the Orlando Solar Bears.

Home games are listed in BOLD CAPS:

• GAME 1: APRIL 21ST, 3:05 p.m. EST AT BON SECOURS WELLNESS ARENA
• GAME 2: APRIL 22ND, 7:05 p.m. EST AT BON SECOURS WELLNESS ARENA
• Game 3: April 26th, 7:00 p.m. EST at Kia Center
• Game 4: April 27th, 9:00 p.m. EST at Kia Center
• Game 5*: April 28th, 7:00 p.m. EST at Kia Center
• GAME 6*: APRIL 30TH, 7:05 p.m. EST AT BON SECOURS WELLNESS ARENA
• GAME 7*: MAY 1ST, 7:05 p.m. EST AT BON SECOURS WELLNESS ARENA
  *if necessary

Memberships for all games, as necessary, as well as single-game tickets for the Kelly Cup Playoffs, are on sale now! Visit https://swamprabbits.com/2024kellycupplayoffs for membership information.

The Swamp Rabbits, 2024 South Division Champions, now look forward to the beginning of the 2024 Kelly Cup Playoffs, taking on the Orlando Solar Bears in the South Division Semifinals. Game 1 of the best-of-seven series is Sunday, April 21st, slated for a 3:05 p.m. EST puck drop at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.

About the Greenville Swamp Rabbits …
Acquired by Spire Sports + Entertainment (SS+E) in 2020, the Greenville Swamp Rabbits hockey team has been providing family-friendly, live entertainment at Bon Secours Wellness Arena since 2010. Formerly, the Greenville Road Warriors and the Swamp Rabbits are the highest-level professional minor league franchise in South Carolina. The Swamp Rabbits are the proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s LA Kings and the AHL’s Ontario Reign. Greenville is an ECHL Premier ‘AA’ Hockey League member.

GREENVILLE SWAMP RABBITS

HOWLINGS

The post SWAMP RABBITS SCHEDULE FOR SOUTH DIVISION SEMIFINALS first appeared on Howlings.

By: Mark Binetti, Greenville Swamp Rabbits

GREENVILLE, SC—The ECHL announced today that Andrew Lord, Head Coach/General Manager of the Greenville Swamp Rabbits, a proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings, received the John Brophy Award as the ECHL’s Coach of the Year.

Lord, who finished as runner-up for the award in his first season in 2021, becomes the first coach in both franchise and Greenville professional hockey history to receive the league’s honor.

The John Brophy Award is presented annually to the ECHL coach who has contributed the most to his team’s success. The coach is chosen by ECHL coaches, broadcasters, media relations directors, and media members. The trophy is named for John Brophy, who won a record three ECHL titles with Hampton Roads in 1991, 1992, and 1998 and was inducted into the ECHL Hall of Fame in 2009.

This season, Lord guided the Swamp Rabbits to a 44-23-4-1 record and 93 points in the standings, claiming the organization’s first South Division Championship in over a decade with a second straight 40-win campaign. Additionally, the Swamp Rabbits earned their 30^th win of the season in just 42 games, the fastest pace ever in Greenville professional hockey history. They won eight straight road games from November 14^th to December 9^th, a new franchise record. By holding the highest win percentage in the Eastern Conference before the Christmas break, Lord was named one of two coaches of the ECHL All-Star Team for the 2024 ECHL All-Star Classic in January.

“I’m extremely honored to receive this award from the ECHL. It’s truly humbling,” said Lord. “A recognition like this is a true testament to the organization that we have here in Greenville. From Assistant Coach Kyle Mountain, Video Coach River Pease, our support staff in Alec Muise and AJ Smith, our players, front office, and ownership, this is a collective effort and a true reflection of our culture and determination to be better both on the ice and in the community. I’m grateful to Jeff Dickerson, our owner, Todd Mackin, Tim Vieira, our President, and everyone who made this season possible. It’s a true honor, and I’m thankful for the ECHL’s recognition.”

Over four years in the Upstate, Lord has compiled a 155-94-30-9 record in 288 games, a 0.606 win percentage. He’s led the Swamp Rabbits to the Kelly Cup Playoffs each season, reaching as far as the 2021 Eastern Conference Finals in his first campaign.

“I couldn’t be prouder of Andrew in receiving this honor from the ECHL. It is very much well deserved,” said Todd Mackin, President of Spire Holdings. “It was apparent during our hiring process four years ago that Andrew had what it takes to transform our team into one of the most competitive in the entire ECHL. He tirelessly works with his staff to build a team that’s worthy of representing our community and competing amongst the best in the league. Back-to-back 40-win seasons, postseason qualification each year, and over a dozen players promoted to the American Hockey League only scratches the surface of where his career trajectory will take him. We are grateful for everything he’s done for our team, both on and off the ice. I look forward to watching him continue this excellence as he pursues our first Kelly Cup Championship as an organization.”

Before joining Greenville before the 2020-21 season, Lord led the Cardiff Devils of the Elite Ice Hockey League to nine separate titles, including three Conference championships, two Challenge Cup championships, two League titles, and two Playoff championships. As the winningest coach in Devils history, he led the team to a 221-75-22 record across his six seasons as head coach. Before entering the coaching ranks, Lord enjoyed a lengthy professional hockey career out of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). He spent ten seasons in the pro ranks, totaling 462 games. His best work as a pro was done in the EIHL, where he scored 173 points in 216 games, all with Cardiff.

“Coach Lord epitomizes what it takes to be the best at his craft. The accountability and urgency he brings to our team make us better as an organization, not only on the ice, but off the ice and in the community,” said Tim Vieira, Swamp Rabbits President. “Working with him is an immense privilege. His leadership of our men on the ice and our support staff has been evident from the very first day we worked together – and this recognition is a culmination of that dedication since day one. From coaching the ECHL All-Stars, to setting team records, and elevating everyone around him, there is no one more deserving of this honor.”

The Swamp Rabbits, 2024 South Division Champions, now look forward to the beginning of the 2024 Kelly Cup Playoffs, taking on the Orlando Solar Bears in the South Division Semifinals. Game 1 of the best-of-seven series is Sunday, April 21^st, slated for a 3:05 p.m. EST puck drop at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.

John Brophy Award Winners (ECHL Coach of the Year)
2023-24 Andrew Lord, Greenville Swamp Rabbits
2022-23 Everett Sheen, Idaho Steelheads
2021-22 Jeff Pyle, Atlanta Gladiators
2020-21 Bruce Ramsay, Wichita Thunder
2019-20 Steve Bergin, South Carolina Stingrays
2018-19 Matt Thomas, Cincinnati Cyclones
2017-18 Brad Ralph, Florida Everblades
2016-17 Dan Watson, Toledo Walleye
2015-16 Richard Matvichuk, Missouri Mavericks
2014-15 Derek Lalonde, Toledo Walleye
2013-14 Spencer Carbery, South Carolina Stingrays
2012-13 Jarrod Skalde, Cincinnati Cyclones
2011-12 Rob Murray, Alaska Aces and John Wroblewski, Gwinnett Gladiators
2010-11 Brent Thompson, Alaska Aces
2009-10 Derek Laxdal, Idaho Steelheads
2008-09 Rick Kowalsky, Trenton Devils
2007-08 Chuck Weber, Cincinnati Cyclones
2006-07 Davis Payne, Alaska Aces
2005-06 Glen Gulutzan, Las Vegas Wranglers
2004-05 Nick Vitucci, Toledo Storm
2003-04 Pat Bingham, Wheeling Nailers
2002-03 Claude Noel, Toledo Storm
2001-02 Dave Farrish, Louisiana Ice Gators
2000-01 Troy Ward, Trenton Titans
1999-00 Bob Ferguson, Florida Everblades
1998-99 Bob Ferguson, Florida Everblades
1997-98 Chris Nilan, Chesapeake IceBreakers
1996-97 Brian McCutcheon, Columbus Chill
1995-96 Roy Sommer, Richmond Renegades
1994-95 Jim Playfair, Dayton Bombers
1993-94 Barry Smith, Knoxville Cherokees
1992-93 Kurt Kleinendorst, Raleigh IceCaps
1991-92 Doug Sauter, Winston-Salem Thunderbirds
1990-91 Don Jackson, Knoxville Cherokees
1989-90 Dave Allison, Virginia Lancers
1988-89 Ron Hansis, Erie Panthers

About the Greenville Swamp Rabbits …
Acquired by Spire Sports + Entertainment (SS+E) in 2020, the Greenville Swamp Rabbits hockey team has been providing family-friendly, live entertainment at Bon Secours Wellness Arena since 2010. Formerly, the Greenville Road Warriors and the Swamp Rabbits are the highest-level professional minor league franchise in South Carolina. The Swamp Rabbits are the proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s LA Kings and the AHL’sLAntario Reign. Greenville is a ECHL, Premier’ AA’ Hockey League member.

GREENVILLEAA’AMP RABBITS

HOWLINGS

The post ANDREW LORD NAMED ECHL COACH OF THE YEAR first appeared on Howlings.