The Ottawa Charge may carry underdog status as the lowest-seeded team in the PWHL playoffs, but after last year's improbable post-season run, they have shed any illusion of being an easy out. Game 1 of the best-of-five semifinal series against the Boston Fleet takes place on April 30 at 7 p.m. in Lowell, Massachusetts.
Charge's Momentum vs. Fleet's Dominance
The Boston Fleet comes off a dominant regular season with 21 total wins (16 in regulation, five in overtime or shootout) for 62 points. That is 18 more points than the Charge earned with 17 wins (nine in regulation, eight in overtime or shootout). However, the Charge enters the playoffs red-hot on a four-game win streak.
Semifinal matchups were determined after top-seeded Montreal Victoire chose to face Minnesota Frost, leaving Ottawa to face Boston. Despite the statistical gap, the Charge locker room believes in an upset, just like last year against Montreal.
"We're really confident," said Charge defender Emma Greco, facing her former team. "We've won the last four games, so I think that's the perfect momentum to take us into playoffs."
Head-to-Head Advantage
Despite the overall records, Ottawa has had Boston's number this season, winning three of four meetings. All four games went to extra time, with three decided by shootout. With no shootouts in the PWHL postseason, marathon games are likely, and the Charge is prepared.
"You want to be playing hockey at this time of the year," head coach Carla MacLeod said. "If it goes into extra periods, no big deal. Our group is well-prepared for that."
Key Factors for Ottawa
Battle of the Brick Walls
Strong goaltending will be central. Rookie Gwyneth Philips took over in the Charge crease last year after an injury to Emerance Maschmeyer and led a playoff MVP-winning run. She will face Team USA counterpart Aerin Frankel of the Fleet.
Momentum and Belief
The Charge's four-game win streak and confidence from last year's playoff run provide crucial momentum. The team believes it can pull off the upset again.
Extra-Time Experience
Ottawa's familiarity with tight, extended games could be an advantage in a series where shootouts are not an option. The Charge has proven it can win in high-pressure, marathon situations.
With these factors, the Ottawa Charge has a realistic path to return to the Walter Cup finals for a second straight season, despite being the underdog.
