#LAKings Reign Recap: Ontario Eliminated From Playoffs After Loss To Colorado (MayorsManor)

For the third straight season, the Ontario Reign were eliminated from postseason play by Colorado. Friday night’s 6-4 loss gave the Eagles a clean sweep in their best-of-three Opening Round matchup.
Despite a late push by the Reign, coach Marco Sturm’s group were unable to overcome a three goal deficit.
Lias Andersson opened up the scoring in the early moments of the first period when he finished off a feed from Nate Schnarr. Ontario’s lead wouldn’t last for long as Colorado evened the score less than two minutes later when they scored a controversial goal, considering it seemed as if Cal Petersen had the puck covered. Even though the score was tied at the end of the period, the Eagles controlled the pace of play.
In the middle period, the Eagles took over the game as they scored twice to put themselves up by two with 20 minutes remaining for a desperate Ontario squad.
Colorado extended their lead to three goals after they took advantage of a power play in the third period. However, moments later Aidan Dudas answered with a shorthanded goal as he showed off a great individual effort before firing the puck into the back of the net. Once again, the Eagles took it right back less than a minute later with another power play goal. Despite being down by three, Ontario did not shy away as both Nate Thompson and Andersson scored to get within one. In the dying seconds, the Eagles added an empty netter to seal the Reign’s fate.
Petersen made 20 saves on 25 shots.
Now begins a summer of uncertainty in Ontario. Sturm is believed to be in the final year of his contract and may not return. Petersen is expected to get a long look in Kings training camp at a possible return to the NHL. Matt Villalta is a restricted free agent and the organization may opt to go in another direction — especially after signing prospect Erik Portillo. In addition, Toby Bjornfot most likely will not be back with the Reign next season, as He will be out of waivers and should be on an NHL roster. Forwards Sammy Fagemo, Tyler Madden, Akil Thomas and Aidan Dudas are also now out of waivers.
Postgame videos:


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Lead photo via Colorado Eagles
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