The Rochester Americans and Toronto Marlies face off in a critical Game 3 of their Calder Cup Playoff series. This showdown will determine who advances to the North Division Semifinals to compete against Laval. The match is scheduled for Sunday afternoon at Coca-Cola Coliseum.
Recent Series Performance
In the first game, the Amerks suffered a shutout in Toronto. However, they bounced back in Game 2, defeating the Marlies 4-0 at Blue Cross Arena. Devon Levi was exceptional, stopping 29 shots, including key saves against Alex Nylander and Bo Groulx.
- Game 1: Marlies won by shutout.
- Game 2: Amerks won 4-0.
- Levi’s Performance: 29 saves, his third playoff shutout.
Key Players and Goals
The scoring for the Amerks included a power-play goal from Konsta Helenius and a goal from Carson Meyer in the first period. Vsevolod Komarov added another goal, and Ryan Johnson sealed the win with an empty-netter late in the game.
This was a significant comeback for Komarov and Johnson, both returning from injuries. Komarov missed the last five games, while Johnson had been sidelined since March. Johnson logged his first multi-point game since November 2025, contributing one goal and one assist.
Injury Update
Unfortunately, the Amerks will be without forward Trevor Kuntar for the remainder of the playoffs due to an upper-body injury.
Historical Context
This matchup marks the first series between the Amerks and Marlies that does not feature a sweep. Additionally, it’s notable as the first series meeting that is shorter than a best-of-five format.
Since 2022, Rochester has participated in four winner-take-all games, achieving a 2-2 record. These have included two games against Syracuse and one each against Utica and Laval. However, the Amerks have not won at Coca-Cola Coliseum since the opening weekend of the 2023-24 season.
Team Statistics
In the 2025-26 season, four Amerks players scored over 20 goals, marking their best total since the 2021-22 season. This included career-high performances from Konsta Helenius, Riley Fiddler-Schultz, and Kuntar. On the other hand, Toronto also boasts three players with 20-plus goals.
| Rochester Americans | Toronto Marlies |
|---|---|
| Four 20-goal scorers | Three 20-goal scorers |
| Youngest team in league | Third-most games played |
As the stage is set for this decisive Game 3, both teams are prepared for a fierce battle for the chance to advance in the playoffs. Fans can anticipate an exciting showdown at Coca-Cola Coliseum, with both teams eager to secure victory and continue their postseason journey.
