Only one playoff spot remains after three more teams clinched on Saturday.
The 2024 WHL playoff picture became a lot clearer on Saturday night, with the Spokane Chiefs, Brandon Wheat Kings and Lethbridge Hurricanes clinching postseason berths. Spokane clinched the final spot in the Western Conference, while the Wheat Kings and Hurricanes were the sixth and seventh teams to clinch in the East. With 15 of the 16 spots taken, teams will spend the season's final weekend battling for seed position and the chance to secure home-ice advantage during the first round of the playoffs.
Spokane clinched their spot thanks to a thrilling, last-minute win over the Tri-City Americans. Led by projected top-10 pick Berkly Catton and Conner Roulette, who surpassed the 100-point mark on the season against Tri-City, the Chiefs return to the postseason for the first time since 2022. With 62 points in 65 games, they will finish anywhere between sixth and eighth this season.
Over in Brandon, the Wheat Kings also return to the playoffs after a one-year absence. Brandon's qualification came after defeating the Prince Albert Raiders 3-2 on Saturday, pushing them to 69 points in 66 games. Currently holding down the seventh seed, they could finish anywhere between sixth and eighth this season.
The Hurricanes return to the playoffs for the sixth consecutive time. Led by draft prospects Harrison Meneghin and Miguel Marques, they have been one of the best defensive teams in the WHL this season. With three games remaining, they could finish the season anywhere between fifth and eighth.
Lastly, the Winterhawks claimed the U.S. Division title after defeating the Wenatchee Wild 5-3. With 95 points in 64 games, Portland also has a chance to claim the top spot in the Western Conference this season. This is the Winterhawks' 15th division title and their first since the 2019-20 campaign.
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