Lakers Win Series in 6, Advancing to Bill Salonen Cup Finals

GAME 5

The Fort Frances Lakers are still alive in the SIJHL playoffs after a big 3-1 win in Game 5 over the Kam River Fighting Walleye on home ice.
After dropping Games 3 and 4 on the road, the Lakers responded with a strong, physical effort—tightening up defensively and getting key contributions from special teams to keep their season going.
Head Coach Luke Judson says the difference came down to getting back to their identity.

The Lakers struck early, including a power play goal from defenseman Judd Pesch, who says adjustments finally paid off.

Goaltender Brady Cates was a difference-maker as well, especially during a tough second period where Cam River pushed hard but couldn’t break through.

Cates finished with a strong performance between the pipes, backed by improved defensive play and better puck management from the Lakers.
Now, the series shifts back to Kam River for Game 6.

GAME 6

The Lakers skated into Norwest Arena and took down the Kam River Fighting Walleye 5-2 in Game 6, evening the series at three games apiece.

Fort Frances came out strong, scoring three times in the first period, including a pair of power play goals, and never looked back. Nick Fagnilli led the way offensively, while Judd Pesch added a key power play marker.
Kam River tried to claw back with goals late in the second and midway through the third, but the Lakers sealed it with two more goals in the final frame.

Rookie goaltender Brady Cates was solid once again, turning aside 21 shots to earn the win in regulation and in the series.
Lakers advance to the Finals with a 4-2 series win, setting up a matchup with Thunder Bay North Stars on April 17th in the Ice For Kids Arena.