The Abbotsford Canucks were a goal away from lifting the Calder Cup, but fell 4-3 in overtime to the Charlotte Checkers. Game 5 featured plenty of exciting back-and-forth action, as the fans at the Abbotsford Centre were treated to a classic. Here is a look at three standouts from Game 5.
Artūrs Šilovs
Take a bow Artūrs Šilovs. Once again, the Canucks goaltender was spectacular, stopping 36 of the 40 shots he faced. In the end, Šilovs deserved a better fate, as he was easily the best player on the ice in Game 5.
At this point, it is hard to see anyone on Abbotsford besides Šilovs capturing playoff MVP. He has made at least 35 saves in three of the five games in the series, while his 36 saves in Game 5 were tied for his third-most in the post-season. With just under 650 saves so far in the playoffs, Šilovs is making a case for one of the best post-season runs by a goaltender in recent history.
Linus Karlsson
Linus Karlsson had a strong Game 5, scoring twice in the loss. He also led all players with eight shots, which is now a new career playoff high. Karlsson also became the first player during the 2025 Calder Cup Playoffs to hit 25 points, while pushing his goal total to 13.
Game 5 was a statement game for Karlsson. He was able to produce offensively, while once again having a strong defensive night. Based on his play in this series, and really, the entire playoffs, it is hard to imagine he will be back in the AHL next season.
Arshdeep Bains
Arshdeep Bains loves playing at the Abbotsford Centre. He scored his seventh of the playoffs in Game 5, which just happened to be his sixth at home. Bains also recorded the primary assist on Karlsson's power play goal, tying him with Cameron Hughes for the league lead with 15 assists.
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Bains has taken over this series and is playing arguably his best hockey of the season. Over the five games, he has eight points, and is currently on a four-game point streak. A leader on and off the ice, Bains continues to set the standard on a nightly basis.
2025 Calder Cup Final Schedule
Game 1: Abbotsford 4, Charlotte 3 (2OT)
Game 2: Charlotte 3, Abbotsford 2 (OT)
Game 3: Abbotsford 6, Charlotte 1
Game 4: Abbotsford 3, Charlotte 2
Game 5: Charlotte 4, Abbotsford 3 (OT)
Game 6: Monday, June 23 @ Charlotte, 4:00 pm PT
*Game 7: Wednesday, June 25 @ Charlotte, 4:00 pm PT
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