Daily Dose of the Dub: Giants clinch playoff spot; Freadrich skates 250th game

Giants heading to the postseason

The Vancouver Giants became the third team (Prince Albert and Everett) in the WHL to book their ticket to the playoffs after a 4-1 win over Prince George. With a 37-13-2-1 record, they sit one point behind Everett for the top spot in the Western Conference with 15 games remaining for both teams. This is the first time the Giants will make back-to-back playoff appearances since 2011-12.

Freadrich plays in 250th

Portland Winterhawks defenceman Jared Freadrich appeared in his 250th WHL game in a 2-1 shootout loss to Medicine Hat. The overage defender was originally drafted in the fourth round (80th overall) in 2013, splitting time with Regina, Red Deer, Victoria and Portland in his four year career. He has a career-high 35 points (9G, 26A) this season in 54 games. The Camrose, AB native has 118 points (32G, 86A) in the 250 games.

Troubling Moment

Vancouver’s Bowen Byram was assessed a five minute major for checking to the head and a game misconduct against Prince George for this hit. Byram has no previous suspension history.

Three Stars of the Night

1st Star: Saskatoon’s Chase Wouters scored twice, including the game winner in a 6-3 win over Brandon.

2nd Star: Edmonton’s Andrew Fyten had a goal and two assists in a 5-2 win over Regina.

3rd Star: Medicine Hat’s Mads Sogaard had 32 saves in a 2-1 shootout win over Portland for his fourth straight win.

Honourable Mentions

Calgary’s Carson Focht had three assists in a 6-2 win over Moose Jaw….Vancouver’s Davis Koch scored the game winning goal and added an assist in a 4-1 win over Prince George….Saskatoon’s Max Gerlach had three assists in a 6-3 win over Brandon….Edmonton’s David Kope scored the game winner and had an assist in a 5-2 win over Regina….