Day 12 of the 2026 Calder Cup Playoffs brings an exciting three-game schedule. The Grand Rapids Griffins kick off their playoff journey against the Manitoba Moose in Winnipeg. This matchup is part of the Central Division semifinal series.
Grand Rapids Griffins vs. Manitoba Moose
The Griffins, who dominated the regular season, have had a long break of thirteen days since their last game. Forward Sheldon Dries stated, “It’s been a long break, but we had some good practices and now we’re just ready to get going.”
In contrast, the Moose are entering this game fresh off their preliminary round victory over the Milwaukee Admirals. They eliminated Milwaukee after a strong comeback, winning Games 2 and 3 by identical 2-1 scores. Goaltender Domenic DiVincentiis excelled, posting a 2-0 record with a 1.00 goals-against average and .962 save percentage. He stopped 50 of 52 shots across the two games.
- David Gustafsson contributed significantly with three points: one goal and two assists.
- Grand Rapids was the top team in the Central Division, finishing with a 20-point lead over second-place Chicago.
- The Griffins had a 6-1-1-0 record against the Moose in the regular season, including two wins in Winnipeg earlier this month.
Coaches’ Perspectives
Mark Morrison, head coach of the Moose, acknowledged the challenges of the break. “Nothing really simulates a game of hockey. Being in our rink, and them laid off a little bit, we’ll want to go after them,” he said.
Despite their impressive regular-season performance, Dries emphasizes that playoff intensity is different. He remarked, “It doesn’t matter what happens in the regular season. Playoffs are a whole different animal.”
Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins vs. Hershey Bears
Meanwhile, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins are facing off against the Hershey Bears. After a lengthy break, the Penguins opened the series with a solid 4-2 victory. Aidan McDonough scored his first playoff goal just three minutes into the game, helping the Penguins take a 1-0 series lead.
- The Penguins’ coaching and training staff played a crucial role in keeping players sharp during their 12-day wait.
- Hershey’s Derek King expressed confidence in his team’s ability to compete closely with the Penguins.
Chicago Wolves vs. Texas Stars
In the Central Division semifinals, the Chicago Wolves face the Texas Stars after a thrilling overtime win. Chicago managed to level the series by overcoming three one-goal deficits and winning 5-4. AHL All-Star Domenick Fensore scored the decisive goal in overtime.
- Juuso Välimäki was notable, scoring twice in the contest.
- Goaltender Cayden Primeau was instrumental, stopping 25 shots, including all 11 in the critical third period and overtime.
- Toby Petersen, head coach of the Stars, recognized the competitive nature of the series despite their Game 2 setback.
As the playoffs progress, the anticipation builds around these thrilling matchups. Each team strives for victory, aware that the stakes are exceptionally high in the quest for the Calder Cup.
