BAKERSFIELD, Calif. ––The Colorado Eagles have closed on one of the fundamental goals for the season: secure a bid to the postseason. With the 3–2 overtime victory to the Bakersfield Condors (EDM) on Wednesday, March 26, they are one of seven teams to clinch their bid and the first of the Pacific Division.

With the stress of the clinched position eased, there is still much to be done. The regular season holds 10 games remaining, with important face offs against the Ontario Reign (LAK), Coachella Valley Firebirds (SEA), and Henderson Silver Knights (VGK). The performance against these specific opponents could make the difference in playoff seeding.

Takeaways

Chris Wagner continues to be a force to be reckoned with. He has netted 14 goals in 13 games, not to mention continuing a 12 game point streak. On more than one occasion, he has been the difference maker in close games. On Wednesday, he was the one to lead the Eagles off.

Jacob MacDonald had an interesting night, yet didn’t let it slow him down. The Colorado Avalanche briefly recalled the defenseman, only to be reassigned a short while later. They put him on a plane to Bakersfield. While MacDonald made it to the rink in time for the game, his luggage was left behind.

However, the missing gear didn’t stop him. He came up big in the third period to equalize a brief lead from Bakersfield, ultimately paving the way for Jere Innala to bring it home.

With so much going right, this game still left much to be desired. Bakersfield was more energetic and focused throughout the second and third periods. If it weren’t for the early goal from Wagner, the team would’ve been in danger of losing the game.

Historically, Colorado has already had trouble with playing to their identity when the Condors are on the other bench. They always seem to come out sluggish, and the desperate playoff situation Bakersfield exasperated this matchup.

The team really struggled with unnecessary penalties. Back-to-back penalties from Tye Felhaber and Wagner allowed the opponent to work with a five-on-three advantage.

Even with a power play, the Eagles uncharacteristically failed to capitalize on it until overtime. On their only successful power play, Innala sealed the deal and officially sent the Eagles to the Calder Cup playoffs.

 

Upcoming

Colorado takes the ice against the Reign on Saturday, March 29 at 7:00 p.m. MST. The game will be available on AHLTV on FloHockey.com.