Both Hartford and Chicago had a chance to secure playoff berths as the AHL kicked off another big weekend with 12 games on Friday night.
The Wolf Pack needed a win over Bridgeport, combined with a Portland loss (in regulation) at Worcester, to secure its seventh consecutive postseason appearance. Portland fell in Worcester, 4-0, but Hartford came up short in its home date with Bridgeport, dropping a 1-0 decision. The Wolf Pack’s magic number is now 2 points, and they can qualify for the Calder Cup Playoffs with a win or tie against the Pirates on Saturday night.
The Wolves need just a win in San Antonio to clinch a spot in the Calder Cup Playoffs for the third time in as many seasons since joining the AHL. Chicago (35-22-8-3) is third in the West Division with 81 points; Grand Rapids and Milwaukee have already clinched spots out of the West.
