Image Credit: Brian Liesse/Seattle Thunderbirds

By Adel Ahmed/CFJC Today

WHL PLAYOFFS 2023

Thunderbirds return to Kamloops for Memorial Cup after winning WHL Final

May 21, 2023 | 7:35 AM

The last two post-seasons have been tough for Kamloops Blazer fans when it comes to facing the Seattle Thunderbirds.

After their quest to a Western Hockey League title was cut short by the Thunderbirds nearly two weeks ago, the Blazers will have a chance at redemption in the biggest junior hockey tournament in Canada.

The Thunderbirds defeated the Winnipeg Ice 3-1 on Friday night (May 19), clinching the series 4-1 to win their second WHL title since 2017. Goaltender Thomas Milic stopped 30 shots in the victory and was named 2023 WHL Playoffs MVP.

Nico Myatovic of Seattle scored the game-winner in the series clinching win on a penalty shot at 2:27 of the third period. Kyle Crnkovic scored the insurance marker later in the frame to put a cushion on the Thunderbirds lead.

Elsewhere the final two participants for the Memorial Cup are yet to be decided. In the Ontario Hockey League, the Peterborough Petes lead their series against the London Knights 3-2 and can book their ticket to Kamloops if they win Sunday night (May 21).

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In the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, the Quebec Remparts can also close out their series on Sunday (May 21) as they are ahead on the Halifax Mooseheads 3-2 in the QMJHL finals.

The Memorial Cup will run May 25 to June 4 at Sandman Centre.