WHL Conference Finals Preview

It is now down to four teams in the WHL Playoffs, and all the Division winners except for one made it here.  The two matchups feature teams that are familiar with one another due to recent encounters in the playoffs.

(1) Brandon Wheat Kings vs. (1) Calgary Hitmen

The Wheat Kings needed overtime in their last two games to finish off the Regina Pats in five games.  The Wheaties are still a young team, but they're already showing that they can finish off games when it matters.  The Hitmen put their near debacle against Kootenay behind them and beat Medicine Hat in five hard fought games.  Defense is their calling card, and it will have to be up to that unit to shut down a well-balanced Wheat Kings squad.

Prediction: Wheat Kings in 6

(1) Kelowna Rockets vs. (2) Portland Winterhawks

A rematch of last year's Western Conference Finals and the fourth meeting between the teams in the last five years, the Rockets are once again heavily favored to represent the Western Conference.  The difference now is that they've added Josh Morrisey and Leon Draisaitl and are better equipped to handle a powerful Portland offense.  The Winterhawks are looking to make it five WHL Finals in a row, and are counting on Oliver Bjorkstrand and Nic Petan to carry the offense because the defense is a work in progress.  The good news here is that Adin Hill has stepped up to be a formidable option in goal.

Prediction: Rockets in 7