The Swift Current Broncos’ playoff push hit a road bump Wednesday in a 2-1 loss to the visiting Moose Jaw Warriors.
The Broncos, who were playing the first of five consecutive games against non-playoff teams to close out the regular season, were only able to beat Justin Paulic once on 38 shots on goal.
Brandon Potomak and Brayden Point both scored for the Warriors in the first period as they led 2-0 after 20 minutes. The Broncos outshot the Warriors in all three periods and 38-24 overall, but only managed a goal from Chance Lund in the second period.
Eetu Laurikainen made 22 saves to drop to 26-23-2-4 for the Broncos.
The Broncos fell to 32-29-3-4 as they missed a chance to take over sole possession of sixth spot in the Eastern Conference. Moose Jaw moved into 10th with a 23-34-4-6.
Despite the loss, the Broncos’ magic number to clinch a playoff spot is down to two after the Lethbridge Hurricanes lost to Red Deer. Any combination of two Swift Current wins or Lethbridge losses will clinch the Broncos their first playoff appearance in three seasons.
The Broncos will return the visit to Moose Jaw on Friday to face the Warriors, followed by a visit to the Brandon Wheat Kings on Saturday.
Remaining games
Swift Current Broncos (4) - @ Moose Jaw, @ Brandon, @ Regina, vs Regina.
Medicine Hat Tigers (5) - @ Saskatoon, @ Prince Albert, @ Calgary, @ Lethbridge, vs Lethbridge.
Kootenay Ice (6) - @ Tri-City, @ Spokane, vs Lethbridge, @ Lethbridge, vs Calgary, @ Calgary.
Lethbridge Hurricanes (6) - @ Red Deer, @ Calgary, @ Kootenay, vs Kootenay, vs Medicine Hat, @ Medicine Hat.
