OAK FOREST, IL - The Chicago Crush Premier squad is firing on all cylinders, and their second-round playoff series against the Metro Jets Developmental Program (MJDP) was a masterclass in playoff hockey. With a combination of relentless offense, clutch goaltending, and a power play that’s hotter than a Zamboni engine, the Crush skated away with a commanding series sweep, outscoring the Jets 10-4 over two games. Now, they’re set to face the Fort Wayne Spacemen in the Midwest Division Finals, and if this series was any indication, the Crush are ready to bring the heat.
Game 1: Chicago Crush Ground the Jets 6-2
The series opener at West Meadows Ice Arena was a statement game for the Crush. From the drop of the puck, it was clear that Chicago’s top guns came to play. Mac King opened the scoring just 7:13 into the first period, burying a feed from Jason Gongol and Jacob Rozanski. The Jets responded with a power-play goal from Ludovick Dussault, but that was as close as they’d get.
The second period was all Crush. Spencer Kauke sniped one home early, and Cyler Brogle added a power-play goal to give Chicago a 3-1 lead. The third period was a clinic in closing out a game. Xavier Othon and DJ Long added insurance goals, and Mac King capped off the night with his second of the game, another power-play marker. Patrick Johansen was a wall in net, turning aside 34 of 36 shots, including some key stops early to keep the Jets at bay.
Key Stat: The Crush went 2-for-4 on the power play, while their penalty kill held the Jets to just 1-for-2. Special teams win playoff games, and Chicago’s units were dialed in.
Game 2: Crush Seal the Deal with a 4-2 Win
The series shifted to Orbit Ice Arena for Game 2, and while the Jets came out with more jump, the Crush once again proved too much to handle. McKenna Baker III opened the scoring for the Jets late in the first period, but Jason Gongol responded just 39 seconds later to tie it up. Gongol was a force all night, finishing with two goals and showing why he’s one of the most dangerous players in the league.
The second period saw Spencer Kauke strike again on the power play, and Gongol added his second of the game to give the Crush a 3-2 lead. The third period was a defensive grind, but Peter White sealed the deal with an empty-netter in the final minute. Aidan Wysoglad was stellar in net, making 33 saves, including several highlight-reel stops in the third period to preserve the lead.
Key Stat: The Crush’s penalty kill was perfect, going 4-for-4, including a crucial kill late in the second period with the game still in the balance.
Series MVP: Jason "The Gong Show" Gongol
If there was any doubt about who the engine of this Crush team is, Jason Gongol put it to rest. The dynamic forward tallied six points (2G, 4A) in the two games, including the game-winning goal in Game 2. His ability to create space, distribute the puck, and finish chances was on full display, and he’ll be a key factor as the Crush look to take down the Spacemen.
Coach Steve Maltais Weighs In
Crush Head Coach Steve Maltais was all business after the series-clinching win. “Our guys came to play. We talked about staying disciplined, capitalizing on our chances, and playing our game for 60 minutes. That’s exactly what they did. "The Gong Show" was on full display, and our goaltending was rock solid. But we’re not done yet. Fort Wayne’s a tough team, and we’ve got to bring that same intensity if we want to keep this run going.”
Looking Ahead: Midwest Division Finals vs. Fort Wayne Spacemen
The Crush now turn their attention to the Fort Wayne Spacemen, who finished first in the division during the regular season. The best-of-three series kicks off on Friday, March 14th, at SportONE/Parkview Icehouse in Fort Wayne. The Spacemen boast a deep roster and a potent offense, but if the Crush can continue to dominate on special teams and get timely goaltending, they’ll be a tough out.
Key Matchup to Watch: Jason Gongol vs. Fort Wayne’s top defensive pair. If Gongol can continue to produce at even strength and on the power play, the Crush will be in good shape.
Final Thoughts
The Chicago Crush are rolling at the right time. Their combination of skill, depth, and playoff grit has them looking like legitimate contenders for the Midwest Division crown. But as Coach Maltais said, the job’s not done. Fort Wayne will be a stiff test, but if the Crush can keep playing their brand of hockey, they’ll be skating with the championship trophy in no time.
Buckle up, Crush fans. This ride is just getting started. ROLL CRUSH!
Catch all the Chicago Crush playoff action live on FloHockey.tv!
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