Windsor Spitfires gunning for deep run in playoff return

The Windsor Spitfires are optimistic in the playoffs, looking for a better outcome than their last post-season run. CTV Windsor’s Bob Bellacicco has more.

After spending a year on the sidelines, the Windsor Spitfires are looking forward to the second season, starting Thursday night at the WFCU Centre.

“I’m excited to see what we can do,” said goaltender Joey Costanzo, who was on the team two years ago when the Spits were crowned the Western Conference regular season champs but were swept in the first round by an upstart Kitchener Rangers team.

“Last time we were in the playoffs, we didn’t go as we expected, and I think a lot of us who are still here, we learn from that and we’re pretty excited to be back,” said defenceman Anthony Cristoforo.

Captain Liam Greentree returns from a two-game suspension in Game 1.

“I think we have a winning culture, and the guys want it more so I’m not too worried about getting swept or anything in the first round so I’m just excited to see what the guys can do,” said Greentree, who helped the Spits rebound from a second-to-last place finish in the OHL to a third place finish overall this season. Their 52-point improvement was the best in franchise history.

“It’s really special to see what you can do when 20 guys come together and work their hardest,” said Costanzo.

First up, the Soo Greyhounds who come in having won five straight games to qualify for the post-season.

“They’re a seven-seed trying to upset a second seed, so you know we got to be ready for that,” warned Cristoforo.

“Hockey’s a game of mistakes,” head coach Greg Walters added.

“The team that makes the least amount of mistakes usually wins, so that’s what we talk about and get ready to go here.”

The Greyhounds will have their hands full trying to contain Greentree and Ilya Protas. Greentree finished third in league scoring with 119 points.

Protas was in a league of his own, closing out the regular season with 23 points in the last seven games to finishing second in league scoring with 124 points.

“Elite player. Powerful. Unbelievable shot,” said Walters.

“An unbelievable kid, so easy to coach when you get two guys like that.”

Protas said he exceeded his hopes for his first season in the OHL and credits his teammates for his success.

“My points, it’s all about group of guys. They helped me and my linemates, it’s been awesome,” Protas told CTV News.

“I hope it will keep going and help the team win.”