(#6) Rapids Riverkings vs. (#46) Steele County Blades
Riverkings: (37-7-2)
Blades: (20-20-4)
Season Series: Riverkings 4-0, Blades 0-4
Game 1-3: Fri, Sat & Sun (if needed) 7:00 P.M. CST at South Wood County Recreation Center
The Rapids Riverkings are set to host the Steele County Blades in the USPHL 2024-2025 playoffs this weekend. The last time these teams met, the Riverkings delivered a commanding 7-0 victory. Heading into the postseason, the Riverkings are on fire, riding a 10-game winning streak—arguably the hottest team in the league.
What Makes the Riverkings So Dangerous?
After finishing 2nd in the North Division, with only a few early-season losses and trailing only the Minnesota Squatch in the standings, the Riverkings are a force to be reckoned with. Leading the charge are offensive powerhouses Cayden Sweitzer (62 points), Owen Tutich (61 points), and Felix Ahlstrand (59 points), all of whom have been instrumental in the team’s success.
On the defensive end, goaltenders Deaken Shaw (.91 SV%) and Guillaume Turcot (.922 SV%) provide a rock-solid foundation between the pipes. The Riverkings’ defense is also among the best in the league, ranking 5th in goals allowed. With players like Xavier Beauchamp and Oliver Bolduc anchoring the blue line, they’re able to not only shut down opposing offenses but also set the tempo for the game.
Additionally, the return of Captain Lucas Whithead, who missed some games due to injury, adds another layer of stability and leadership. His ability to disrupt the opposing team’s momentum and lead by example is invaluable.
What Sets This Team Apart?
We asked Head Coach Paul Pechmann what makes the Riverkings so special and the key to succsess this season:
“What makes this team special is that we have a good mix of returners who have had success last year with first year guys that are hungry for that success as well. Together they have been committed to putting in the effort necessary for us to be the most successful team I’ve ever coached. I am so proud of these guys and hopefully we get to see them reach their goals of winning a national championship..”
With a powerful mix of offensive firepower, defensive depth, and elite goaltending, the Riverkings are more than ready for the challenge ahead in the playoffs. This team is capable of anything it wants to be. With the hope of it all, winning a national championship.