The clock struck midnight on the Victoria Royals’ incredible playoff run Tuesday night, as their turn around season came to a dramatic and emotional close in Spokane.
It was a do-or-die game six showdown against the Spokane Chiefs, and while the Royals didn’t get the ending they dreamed of, they made sure to go down swinging.
Down 4-2 in the third period, the Royals clawed their way back into the game thanks to clutch goals from Kenta Isogai and Brandon Lisowsky, sending the game into overtime and keeping fans on the edge of their seats for nearly two full extra periods.
But with just under two minutes remaining in double overtime, Andrew Cristall—an NHL second-round pick and one of Spokane’s most dangerous players—capitalized on a power play and buried the game-winner. The 5-4 final sealed the series 4-2 for the Chiefs and sent them to the Western Conference Final.
It was a crushing way to bow out, but this Royals squad has plenty to be proud of.
Victoria’s roster underwent a major overhaul this season, and few outside the locker room expected the team to gel so quickly and make such a deep run. But led by emerging stars like Cole Reschny, Keaton Verhoeff, Teydon Trembecky, and Jayden Kraus, the Royals turned heads across the league.
Reschny, named WHL Player of the Week earlier in the playoffs, was a force throughout the postseason—finishing with 25 points in 11 games and likely boosting his NHL Draft stock in the process. Tuesday’s loss was the only game he didn’t record a point.
Trembecky, an unheralded breakout star, added his ninth goal of the playoffs in game six, following up a regular season where he notched an eye-popping 46 goals. Meanwhile, Isogai and Lisowsky—mid-season additions—played huge roles in helping the team push deep into the second round.
Goaltender Jayden Kraus stood tall between the pipes in the finale, making 48 saves on 53 shots and keeping Victoria alive through relentless pressure from Spokane.
It’s the sixth time the Royals have made it to the second round of the WHL playoffs since joining the league in 2011—but the elusive third round still remains out of reach. While it stings now, this year’s run felt different. VIcThis group gave fans something to believe in again.
From thrilling comeback wins to double overtime battles, Royals hockey felt electric this season—and that momentum is something to build on.
Now, it’s Spokane’s turn to keep skating as they move on to face the Portland Winterhawks in the Western Conference Final. But back here in Victoria, the Royals walk away with heads high after a season filled with growth, grit, and unforgettable moments.
Until next season, Royals fans!
