WHL Playoffs: Western Conference Preview

The WHL Playoffs begin tonight, with the Western Conference teams starting tomorrow. Prior to the season, it was thought that Kelowna would be a favorite to repeat as champions. Now, Victoria is in the driver's seat as the Scotty Munro Champions while Kelowna is struggling with injuries. Meanwhile, Seattle is finally starting to live up to their billing, as they took home the U.S. Division title, but the race to be the Western Conference representative in the WHL Finals appears to be wide open.

Victoria Royals vs. Spokane Chiefs

Don't let Victoria's defense fool you, they can also score. However, it does begin with the goaltending, as the duo of Coleman Vollrath and Griffen Outhouse man the nets ably. Their offense is balanced, as three players scored over 80 points while rookie Matthew Phillips contributed 76 points. Everything begins with MVP candidate Joe Hicketts, as he has been everything for the Royals. The Chiefs needed the last weekend to clinch a spot in the playoffs, and while there is talent in Kailer Yamamoto, asking them to contend this season is a bit much.

Prediction: Royals in 5

Kelowna Rockets vs. Kamloops Blazers

The Rockets looked like they were going to lock up the top spot in the Western Conference, but then injuries to Nick Merkley and Jackson Whistle derailed those chances. They still have Tyson Baillie, but seeing as there's almost a 30 point gap between him and the next highest scorer, it will be imperative that the Rockets get a team effort, particularly since Michael Herringer is untested in the playoffs. Kamloops doesn't score as much as Kelowna, but they got strong goaltending from Connor Ingram, and they've played their best hockey lately. An upset is not out of the cards here.

Prediction: Blazers in 7

Seattle Thunderbirds vs. Prince George Cougars

The Thunderbirds are led by Matt Barzal and Ryan Gropp, but are also getting contributions from players like Ethan Bear and Donovan Nelus. However, it was the mid-season pickup of Landon Bow from Swift Current that put the Thunderbirds over the top on the way to the U.S. Division title. If Seattle hopes to win a league title, this year is their best shot yet. The Cougars are led by Chase Witala, and along with players like Tate Olson and Jesse Gabrielle, the Cougars will need to pick up their offensive output, as their defense has been at its best in recent history.

Prediction: Thunderbirds in 6

Everett Silvertips vs. Portland Winterhawks

The Silvertips are riding Carter Hart's goaltending into the playoffs, but with a goal differential of just +10, it will be imperative that their offense shows up because if it doesn't, it's possible that they will be wasting Hart's efforts. In Portland, it's been a time of transition, as they struggled to get to the playoffs this season. They haven't been able to replace the scoring of recent seasons adequately, and they give up goals in bunches. However, it is the playoffs, and the Winterhawks have surprised before (see: last season) when their backs have been against the wall.

Prediction: Winterhawks in 7