You knew this was coming..."2 for CLINCHING"

Yes! That's right! A Cleveland team has clinched a playoff spot! Which playoffs? The Calder Cup!

For those of you that haven't been to the Q in a while or haven't look up to the rafters opposite the Cavs' banners, the Calder Cup has graced the city of Cleveland 9 times in the AHL's existence; to what was often regarded as the "7th best team in hockey": the Cleveland Barons. (At the time, there were only 6 teams in the NHL, and the Barons even challenged the NHL clubs for the Stanley Cup but each time they refused to play)

See that? It says "Cleveland", "Hockey", and "Playoff"!

Now, the Monsters still have a shot at the division title. In fact, a good one. Hamilton and Manitoba have also clinched a spot, but are at 78 GMs played apiece. The best part is with 93 points to each of them, the Moose and Bulldogs could end up with 95 each at the end of the season. (Keep up; I'm a bit scatterbrained, I know.) See, both the teams' last two games are against each other. It is VERY likely that they can split the series, with both teams ending up with 95 points.

The Monsters would then have 3 games to make (if they lose tonight) 6 points or 4 points.

In short, the Monsters will need to win 3 out of their last 4 games in hopes of clinching should the series between Hamilton and Manitoba split. If it goes one way, the Monsters can STILL get 1st; but they'd need to win out.

I'm excited for tonight! GO MONSTERS!
~Brett