Brandon and Calgary join the 2026 WHL Playoff field following a weekend of high-stakes action.
Brandon Wheat Kings & Calgary Hitmen Clinch WHL Playoffs
The Eastern Conference playoff picture is coming into focus as two more franchises officially punched their tickets to the 2026 WHL postseason over the weekend. The Brandon Wheat Kings and Calgary Hitmen have both secured their spots, joining the Prince Albert Raiders, Medicine Hat Tigers and Edmonton Oil Kings in the Eastern bracket.
The Brandon Wheat Kings qualified for the 2026 WHL Playoffs on Saturday night following an 8-4 win over the Edmonton Oil Kings. The win extended Brandon's impressive winning streak to six games.
The Wheat Kings' surge to the postseason has been defined by a balanced attack and elite defensive performances, including a recent 4-0 shutout win against the B.C. Division-leading Penticton Vees. Brandon currently sits second in the East Division and fifth in the overall Eastern Conference standings.
The Calgary Hitmen dramatically earned their berth on Saturday night. Despite falling 3-2 in overtime to the Saskatoon Blades, the single point earned was enough to officially secure Calgary’s second-straight trip to the postseason. Calgary battled back from 1-0 and 2-1 deficits with goals from Calder Hamilton and Ethan Moore to force the extra frame.
The Hitmen currently occupy fourth in the Eastern Conference with a record of 31-15-7-1, sitting just one point ahead of Brandon for home-ice advantage in the first round.
With both teams now officially clinched, the final quarter of the season shifts to a battle for positioning. Calgary is immediately back in action today, Sunday, Feb. 22, hosting the Red Deer Rebels.
Meanwhile, Brandon will look to keep their six-game win streak alive as they chase Prince Albert for the top spot in the East Division.
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