Four Thrilling Series Set to Determine Conference Finalists

The 2025 Calder Cup Playoffs have reached their most critical stage, with four division finals series determining which teams will advance to the conference championships. As AHL's top prospects and veteran players battle for hockey's most prestigious minor league trophy, fans can expect intense competition and career-defining performances.

Key Matchup Breakdowns

Eastern Division: Hershey Bears vs. Charlotte Checkers

The two-time defending champions (2023-2024) face their toughest challenge yet against the Atlantic Division runners-up. Hershey's home-ice advantage at Giant Center will be tested by Charlotte's defensive anchor Artūrs Šilovs, who brings a .942 playoff save percentage into the series.

Northern Division: Laval Rocket vs. Rochester Americans

Montreal's affiliate brings offensive firepower against Rochester's veteran leadership. The series features an intriguing clash between Laval's high-scoring Félix Trudeau and Americans' captain Kyle Criscuolo, whose playoff experience could prove decisive.

Central Division: Milwaukee Admirals vs. Texas Stars

This defensive vs. offensive showdown sees Milwaukee's league-best penalty kill unit facing Texas' explosive scoring tandem. Though rookie sensation Lane Hutson has moved up to Montreal, his early-season contributions continue to shape the Admirals' defensive identity.

Pacific Division: Colorado Eagles vs. Abbotsford Canucks

A rematch of last year's semifinal thriller features Colorado's home-ice advantage against Abbotsford's redemption quest. Canucks goaltender Šilovs seeks to replicate his 29-save semifinal shutout performance against the Eagles' offensive leader Ben Meyers.

Viewer Information

All best-of-five series stream live on AHLTV via FloHockey, with select regional broadcasts:

• Hershey Bears: Fox 43 (PA)
• Coachella Valley: CW5 (CA)
• Laval Rocket: RDS (Quebec)

Playoff Implications

This year's division finals carry historic significance:

• Hershey seeks first three-peat since 2010
• Šilovs could become first goalie to win Calder Cup with two different teams
• Texas Stars aim for first finals appearance since 2018

Legacy of Excellence

Since its 1938 inception, the Calder Cup has showcased hockey's future stars while honoring minor league traditions. The 2025 playoffs continue this legacy, blending emerging talent with seasoned professionals in high-stakes competition.

As teams battle for conference final berths, fans worldwide anticipate dramatic overtime finishes, breakout performances, and the relentless pursuit of professional hockey's oldest minor league championship.