McGill and Queen’s Set to Renew Historic Hockey Rivalry in OUA Quarterfinals
Montreal – The McGill Redbirds and Queen’s Gaels are poised to write another chapter in one of North America’s oldest and most storied hockey rivalries. The two teams will clash in the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) East men’s hockey quarter-finals, beginning Wednesday at McConnell Arena.
A Rivalry Dating Back to 1895
The McGill-Queen’s matchup is the third-oldest ice hockey rivalry on the continent, with its origins tracing back to February 2, 1895, when Queen’s secured a 6-5 victory in Kingston. McGill’s hockey program, established in 1877, recently celebrated its 149th anniversary. Queen’s first fielded a team in 1886 against Royal Military College.
Series Schedule and Viewing Options
The best-of-three series kicks off Wednesday at 7 p.m. At McGill’s McConnell Arena. Game 2 is scheduled for Friday at 7:30 p.m. At the Memorial Centre in Kingston, Ontario. If necessary, a deciding Game 3 will be played Sunday at 3 p.m. In Montreal.
Fans can purchase tickets online for $15 (adults), $10 (seniors, McGill students/staff), and $5 (youth under 16). The games will be streamed live on the McGill Streaming Network and OUA.tv, with live statistics also available online.
Regular Season Performance and Head-to-Head Record
McGill, ranked No. 7 nationally, finished the regular season with a 16-8-4 record, securing third place in the nine-team OUA East. The Redbirds won three of four regular-season meetings against Queen’s, outscoring them 13-10 overall. Queen’s, under head coach Brett Gibson, posted a 14-13-1 record to finish sixth.
Historically, McGill holds a commanding 139-59-2 edge in 200 all-time meetings. In playoff matchups, the Redbirds lead 7-3, having won previous series in 2008, 2012, 2015, and 2022.
Offensive and Defensive Strengths
McGill boasts a potent offense, ranking second in the 19-team OUA with 101 goals scored in 28 games. They also have a solid defensive record, allowing 76 goals (2.71 goals-against average). Queen’s scored 77 goals and conceded 79.
McGill’s special teams also present an advantage. Their power play operates at 18.6 per cent, and their penalty kill ranks fourth at 83.8 per cent, leading the league with seven short-handed goals. Queen’s power play is at 13.1 per cent, and their penalty kill is at 78.3 per cent.
Key Players to Watch
Leading the charge for McGill are forwards Charles-Antoine Dumont (15 goals, 18 assists, 33 points) and Xavier Fortin (10 goals, 20 assists, 30 points). Defenceman Thomas Belzile has also been a significant contributor with seven goals and 19 points. For Queen’s, Nolan Hutcheson leads the team with 12 goals and 24 points, while Michael Renwick tops the Gaels’ blueline with six goals and 15 points.
In goal, McGill freshman Nicolas Ruccia has a 12-11 record with a 2.62 goals-against average and a .919 save percentage. Queen’s will counter with fifth-year senior Tanner Wickware, who has a 9-7 record, a 2.36 GAA, and a .919 save percentage.
Intriguing Storyline: Larochelle Returns to Face Former Team
Adding an extra layer of intrigue to the series is McGill forward Charles-Thomas Larochelle, who previously played for Queen’s.
Looking Ahead: Semifinal Matchup
The winner of the McGill-Queen’s series will advance to the OUA East semifinal against second-seeded Concordia. The other quarter-final features Ontario Tech against Ottawa, with the winner facing division champion UQTR.
FAQ
Q: Where can I watch the games live?
A: Games will be streamed on the McGill Streaming Network and OUA.tv.
Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors/students/staff, and $5 for youth.
Q: What is the historical record between McGill and Queen’s?
A: McGill leads the all-time series 139-59-2.
Q: Who are some key players to watch for McGill?
A: Charles-Antoine Dumont, Xavier Fortin, and Thomas Belzile are key players for McGill.
Pro Tip: Check the OUA website for updated schedules and game results throughout the playoffs!
Don’t miss the action as these two historic programs battle for a chance to advance in the OUA playoffs. Share your predictions in the comments below!
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