Mike Benning scored the overtime winner as the Abbotsford Canucks fell 3-2 to the Charlotte Checkers. Sammy Blais and Linus Karlsson provided the goals, while Artūrs Šilovs made 39 saves in the loss. Thanks to the results, the 2025 Calder Cup Finals is now tied at 1-1, with the series now shifting to Abbotsford for the next three games.
Despite the close score line, the Canucks struggled in Game 2. They were outshot 42-13 and were unable to establish significant zone time at even strength. Ultimately, if not for some timely saves by Šilovs, this game could have been a blowout.
As for when Abbotsford did have sustained pressure, they struggled to consistently hit the net. There were numerous opportunities that went either wide or high, which often stalled the Canucks offensive push. If Abbotsford can not fix this trend, it will cause issues throughout the series.
Game 2 was also a very physical match, as the two teams made sure to finish their checks every chance they got. Multiple players needed assistance to the bench, while Charlotte defenceman Tobias Björnfot left the game and did not return. With only one day off and cross-country travel heading into Game 3, it will be interesting to see if the Canucks and Checkers can replicate the same physical play on Tuesday.
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In the end, Abbotsford did a good job picking up a split on the road, but they need to put together some strong performances over the next three games. That means testing Kaapo Kähkönen more consistently while also limiting Charlotte's scoring chances. With the series now shifting to the Abbotsford Centre, the Canucks should be able to build some momentum from what is expected to be a loud and enthusiastic crowd.
Max Sasson of the Abbotsford Canucks (Photo Credit: Lizz Child/FloSports)Scoring Summary:
1st Period:
3:13- CLT: John Leonard (7) from Rasmus Asplund
4:15- ABB: Sammy Blais (4) from Jujhar Khaira
11:14- CLT: Wilmer Skoog (4) (PPG)
17:38- ABB: Linus Karlsson (10) from Sammy Blais and Arshdeep Bains
2nd Period:
No Scoring
3rd Period:
No Scoring
Overtime:
4:02- CLT: Michael Benning (5) from Justin Sourdif
Game 3: Tuesday, June 17 @ Abbotsford Centre, 7:00 pm PT
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