U of S Huskies hockey team looking to return to nationals

(Courtesy: Huskie Athletics)

A year ago the Saskatchewan Huskies men’s hockey team was hoisting a conference championship trophy at Merlis Belsher Place. This weekend the green and white will be back on home ice for a first round playoff series against Alberta, aiming to defend their title.

Saskatchewan finished second in the Eastern division this season, two points back of Mount Royal, the team they beat last year in the Canada West Championship.

Now the Huskies are focused on a best-of-three first round playoff matchup against Alberta.

The Golden Bears and Huskies have been perennial powerhouses in men’s hockey for several years, last facing each off in the playoffs in 2024, when Saskatchewan lost a heartbreaker in the deciding game three, dropping a 5-4 decision in overtime.

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A number of players from both teams are still on the rosters, and are ready to lock horns again.

Saskatchewan won both meetings against Alberta during the regular season, notching 7-4 and 6-2 wins at Merlis Belsher place.

The Huskies boast the conference’s leading scorer in Chantz Petruic, who leads Canada West with 18 goals. Former Saskatoon Blade Connor Roulette has lit the lamp 15 times for the Huskies, good for fifth in the conference.

The Huskies won the Canada West title last year in a spirited three game series against Mount Royal, before winning bronze a the National U-Sports University Cup.

The road back to nationals begins Friday, with game one against Alberta at Merlis Belsher Place. Puck drop is set for 7 p.m. Game two is Saturday, and game three, if needed, goes Sunday.