Back on home ice: Sammy Blais on the first two games and playoff mindset

ABBOTSFORD CANUCKS/ X

After splitting the first 2 games of the Calder Cup Finals on the road, including back-to-back overtime thrillers, the Abbotsford Canucks returned home to a sold-out crowd for Games 3 through 5. 

Forward Sammy Blais reflected on the opening games, the relief of the overturned goal, and what it means to chase a championship in front of a passionate home base.

We started by talking about the emotional swings in Game 1 and how it felt to survive double overtime.

Jaslyne:

So talk to me about Game 1. How intense was the double overtime for you guys?

Blais:

Anytime you go into overtime, you know it can go one way or the other. Then they got that goal that got turned over, and then we came back and won. So it was a good feeling, but we were happy to get the first one there. Second game, overtime again, and they were able to capitalize on their power play. So it's been a tight matchup, and we're excited to be back home in front of our fans tonight.

That overturned goal in Game 1 was a critical moment, shifting momentum right before Klimovich buried the winner. We asked Blais what was going through the team’s minds at that moment.

Jaslyne:

Speaking of that overturned goal, what was going through your guys' minds? What happened?

Blais:

Yeah, no, it was a little crazy, but Arty was not even ready. So we kind of knew that they were going to talk about it, and obviously we were happy that they overturned it. When Klimmer scored that overtime goal, it was a huge relief. We were happy to get one of those two games, and now we're back in front of our fans. So we're really excited to get things going here.

With 3 games at home, adjustments and preparations became the focus. Blais spoke about what the group was looking to improve on as the series continued.

Jaslyne:

Preparing for tonight (Tuesday, June 17) from the last 2 games, is there anything you guys are specifically working on? Is there anything that's a little bit of a challenge against this team?

Blais:

Maybe trying to control the play a little more, have the puck more on our sticks, be more connected sometimes in the D-zone, on our breakouts and in the O-zone. Maybe have more guys in on the forecheck. But you know, it's hard out there. There's not much space. There are only two teams left in the league, so it's going to be a good matchup. Like I said, we're just excited to be back in front of our fans, and I know they're going to be ready to cheer us on tonight.

With standing-room-only seats added and the crowd buzzing, the playoff atmosphere in Abbotsford is the key for home ice advantage. For Blais, this stretch of hockey is what it’s all about.

Jaslyne:

It's going to be a packed house. For you personally, what's been the most exciting part about being a part of this team in the playoffs?

Blais:

I mean, winning is always fun. As a hockey player, whether you play pro hockey or junior hockey, the main goal at the start of the season is to win the Cup. We've been working hard all year for that, and we're close to our goal. But there's still a lot of work to be done. So for us, it's just about being ready for Game 3 and not looking too far ahead.

Despite the puddles in Charlotte, Abbotsford managed to freeze them out in game 3. Blais’ goal at 6:43 in the second got the Canucks on the board, contributing to the 6-1 blowout win in front of a sold out crowd. Game 4 will take place on Thursday June 19, 2025 at Abbotsford Centre.