The Spokane Chiefs advance to Western Conference Championship Series after defeating the Victoria Royals in double overtime Tuesday night. The 5-4 victory in Game 6 clinched the second-round playoff series four games to two.
The deciding goal came late in the second extra period. Andrew Cristall, a Washington Capitals prospect, scored on a power play at 18:11 of the second overtime to end the contest.
Earlier in Game 6, Shea Van Olm recorded a hat trick for Spokane. Saige Weinstein also scored in regulation. Netminder Dawson Cowan stopped 36 shots in the series-clinching effort.
The series proved tightly contested. Four of the six games were decided by a single goal, and three required overtime. Victoria took Games 2 and 3, but Spokane won three consecutive contests to finish the series.
Chiefs captain Berkly Catton, a Seattle Kraken draft pick, finished second among all skaters in series scoring with 13 points. Cristall led the series with 15 points.
This marks the Chiefs' seventh trip to the Western Conference Championship Series in franchise history. It is their first appearance since 2019.
Spokane now awaits the winner of the other Western Conference semifinal. The Portland Winterhawks defeated the Everett Silvertips in their Game 7 matchup.
Victoria received strong play from Cole Reschny, who was named WHL player of the week. The Royals' power play operated effectively throughout the series.
Victoria forward Teydon Trembecky discussed the team's approach during their playoff run.
