If The WHL Playoffs Started Today: January 23, 2025
What would the first round of the WHL playoffs look like if it started today?
The 2024-25 WHL regular season is slowly coming to an end. With approximately 25 games left for each team, the battle for playoff spots is becoming more and more intense. With this in mind, here is a look at what the playoff matchups would be if the 2025 WHL postseason started on January 23, 2025.
Eastern Conference:
1) Medicine Hat Tigers vs 8) Swift Current Broncos
The top-seeded Medicine Hat Tigers take on the Swift Current Broncos in what should be an exciting first-round matchup. These two teams have met three times already this season, with the Tigers currently holding a 2-1-0 lead. With plenty of talent on both sides, this series could result in some high-scoring games, which would excite fans both in Alberta and Saskatchewan.
2) Saskatoon Blades vs 7) Brandon Wheat Kings
Get your ice packs ready if the Saskatoon Blades and Brandon Wheat Kings meet in the first round. These two divisional rivals have split the first four games of their season series, with Brandon having taken the last two meetings. From stellar goaltending to plenty of hard hits, these two teams match up well and could push a series the distance.
3) Calgary Hitmen vs 6) Prince Albert Raiders
Two of the highest-scoring teams in the Eastern Conference meet as the Calgary Hitmen battle the Prince Albert Raiders. Both have scored at least 160 goals this season and have multiple players who have produced at least 50 points. A matchup that is currently tied with one win each, this Central versus East battle will be one to watch.
4) Lethbridge Hurricanes vs 5) Edmonton Oil Kings
A matchup between the Lethbridge Hurricanes and the Edmonton Oil Kings could easily go the difference. These two division rivals have split the first four games of the season series, with the last battle going to a shootout. The question is, will the Oil Kings' high-flying offence thrive, or will the Hurricanes' top-notch defensive play shut them down?
Western Conference:
1) Everett Silvertips vs 8) Kelowna Rockets
The experienced Everett Silvertips take on a young Kelowna Rockets team looking to make a statement. This has been a season series that Everett has dominated, picking up all three wins this year. The Silvertips clearly have eyes on the Memorial Cup but will need to take care of the 2026 hosts if they want to get there.
2) Victoria Royals vs 7) Tri-City Americans
After making a significant trade in the offseason, the Victoria Royals and Tri-City Americans are on a collision course to meet in the playoffs. The Royals currently have an advantage in the season series, going 2-0-1-0 during the three games. Will this be the year the Royals go on a long run, or can the Americans send them packing with a first-round upset?
3) Spokane Chiefs vs 6) Vancouver Giants
The Spokane Chiefs versus Vancouver Giants series is intriguing. The Chiefs have a 2-0-0 record against the Giants this season, but the two teams haven't met since late November. With plenty of goals and stars, this battle will be one to watch come the postseason.
4) Portland Winterhawks vs 5) Prince George Cougars
The 2025 playoffs could feature a rematch of the 2024 Western Final. This has been a series that the Portland Winterhawks have dominated, going 4-0-0 so far this season against the Prince George Cougars. Can Portland push their success to the playoffs, or will Prince George get revenge for last year?
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