The Tigers have become contenders in the East after a strong start to the season.
The Medicine Hat Tigers are the perfect example of a team hitting their stride at the right time. They have outscored their opponents 22-5 in their last two games and are succeeding despite missing their top-line center. Currently leading the Central Division by six points, they have developed into a contender and could go on a significant run come playoff time.
When breaking down this Medicine Hat team, there are a few statistics that really stand out. First is how well they have done on special teams. The Tigers are currently ranked second on the power play while also holding the fourth-best penalty kill. Their success on both units shows just how dangerous Medicine Hat can be come playoff time. Not only can they capitalize on their opportunities, but their defence is strong enough to prevent the opposition from cashing in on the man advantage. From one of the worst teams in both categories last year to the top in 2023-24, the special team's turnaround has significantly influenced the Tiger's success so far this season.
Maybe the most underrated part of this team is their defensive play. Through 39 games, Medicine Hat ranks third in shots against per game at 28.85 and fourth in goals against per game at 2.97. It is clear that everyone is buying into the defensive system implemented this season, as they have become not just one of the best offensive teams in the league but also one of the hardest to score on.
Arguably, the best way to describe how exciting this year has been is to ask someone who has been around the team all year. James Tubb is a sports reporter with the Medicine Hat News and has covered this team for multiple years. When asked about what makes this team so special, this is what he had to say:
"The legs feed the wolf" is a legendary line from Herb Brooks while coaching Team U.S.A. to a Gold Medal at the 1980 Olympics. It also applies to how the Medicine Hat Tigers have found success this season. They often outpace teams and outwork teams, wearing them down until the Tigers can skate around their opponents. Their offence is well regarded and relentless, and they have a strong belief they are the best team every single night."
Tubb feels the Tigers have a chance to go a long run come playoff time. As he points out, this is one of the most challenging teams to play against as they continue to play their game regardless of the score. With a good mix of youth and experience, this team has the chance to be a contender not just this season but over the next few years as well.
"The Tigers may not be loading up like other teams in the league, but they know who they have in the room and what their capable of. Their five-forward power play unit of Gavin McKenna, Cayden Lindstrom, Andrew Basha, Oasiz Wiesblatt and Tomas Mrsic is unrelenting and makes teams pay for any infraction. The Tigers' offence comes in waves as Willie Desjardins coached teams do, one line at a time, all capable of scoring. Their defence is veteran-heavy, with three 20-year-old d-men leading a group of younger defenders holding their own. The Tigers are a team of the future who doesn't want to wait until next year to win; they want it now."
While most of the focus has been on the Saskatoon Blades and Moose Jaw Warriors, the Tigers could easily find themselves in the East Final later this season. They are 17-9-2 against Eastern Conference teams and could have home-ice advantage for the first two postseason rounds. Once fully healthy, they could be near impossible to stop as they look for their first Memorial Cup berth since 2007.
