The Medicine Hat Tigers kicked off the 2025 WHL Championship Series with a 4-1 victory over the Spokane Chiefs. Bryce Pickford scored the game-winner, while Gavin McKenna recorded two assists, pushing his point streak to 54 games. As for the winning goaltender, that was Harrison Meneghin, who stopped 36 of the 37 shots he faced.
This game kicked off with a special moment, as Andrew Basha scored just 54 seconds in. The Calgary Flames prospect had not played since December 28 and was able to make an immediate impact on the game. Basha was eventually named the first star of the game, recording a goal and one shot in his return.
As for the secondary assist on the goal, that went to Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Cayden Lindstrom, who missed the entire season with injury. Lindstrom hasn't played since April 5, 2024, as he has been recovering from a back injury. Overall, it was a strong game for the 19-year-old, as he also went five for 10 in the faceoff dot.
The star of this game was easily Meneghin, who was virtually unbeatable. As mentioned, the Tampa Bay Lightning prospect made 36 saves, which included stopping 14 of 15 in the third period. In the end, it is safe to say that Meneghin stole this game for the Tigers, putting them up 1-0 in the series.
From Spokane's perspective, they don't need to change their game plan that much going into Game 2. They were the better team overall, but in the end, couldn't find a way to beat Meneghin. If the Chiefs can continue to outshoot Medicine Hat by 15 every game, their chances of winning the series will be very high.
After an exciting Game 1, these two teams will have a day off before playing Game 2 on Sunday. Spokane has yet to drop back-to-back games this post-season, while the Tigers are currently riding an 11-game win streak. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 pm MT from Co-op Place.
Scoring Summary:
1st Period:
00:54- MED: Andrew Basha (1) from Hunter St. Martin and Cayden Lindstrom
6:27- MED: Bryce Pickford (8) from Gavin McKenna and Jonas Woo
2nd Period:
No Scoring
3rd Period:
4:44- SPO: Berkly Catton (9) from Shea Van Olm and Brayden Crampton
5:56- MED: Ethan Neutens (2) from Misha Volotovskii and Kadon McCann
17:43- MED: Tanner Molendyk (4) from Gavin McKenna (ENG)
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