PRE-GAME REPORT: VERNON VIPERS VS. CRANBROOK BUCKS

Vernon, BC:  The Vernon Vipers (8-13-4) are set to host the Cranbrook Bucks (13-10-1) in one of the most exciting nights of the season — the annual Teddy Bear Toss game at Kal Tire Place. Fans will be ready to send stuffed animals flying when the Vipers score their first goal of the night, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already pivotal matchup.

This will be the third of four head-to-head meetings this season between the two teams. So far, they’ve split the series, with each team taking one game in Cranbrook. With just one game left after tonight, both teams will be looking to seize the edge in this season series.

Vernon Vipers
Record: 8-13-4 (Home: 3-5-3)

The Vipers are looking to bounce back from a tough 6-3 loss to the Brooks Bandits on Friday night. Despite the result, there were bright spots offensively, as Will Schumacher, Corban Almen, and Landon MacDonald all found the back of the net.

In goal, Jari Kykkanen started the game but was pulled after stopping 15 of 20 shots. Backup Marko Bilic provided solid relief, turning aside 21 of 22 shots in the second half of the game. It’s unclear which goaltender will get the start tonight, but both have shown flashes of strong play this season.

The Vipers will be leaning on their home crowd to generate energy for the Teddy Bear Toss, which could serve as a turning point for the team. A strong start will be crucial, as they look to keep pace with a Bucks squad that’s been playing well on the road.

Cranbrook Bucks
Record: 13-10-1 (Road: 7-4-1)

The Bucks wrap up a grueling five-game road trip tonight in Vernon, carrying a 2-1-1 record through the first four games of the swing. They’re coming off a thrilling 2-1 overtime win against the Salmon Arm Silverbacks on Friday.

Jake Skogstad sparked the Bucks with a game-tying goal early in the third period, while Shane Baker played the hero, burying a breakaway chance nearly seven minutes into overtime. Between the pipes, Jaden Cholette was outstanding, stopping 27 of 28 shots, including 8 crucial saves in overtime.

With one last game on their road trip, the Bucks will be motivated to finish strong before heading back to Cranbrook. They’ll be looking to start fast and play a disciplined game to prevent the Vipers from building momentum in front of an energized home crowd.

Head-to-Head
This is the third meeting of the season between the Vipers and Bucks, with both teams having won one game each in Cranbrook. With the series tied 1-1, tonight’s contest will be crucial in determining bragging rights for the season.

Key Storyline: Teddy Bear Toss Night
The annual Teddy Bear Toss is always a highlight of the Vipers’ schedule, and players often rise to the occasion. Once Vernon scores their first goal, fans will flood the ice with stuffed animals, all of which will be donated to local charities. The Vipers will want to make sure that moment comes early, and they’ll be pushing for a fast start to ignite the celebration.

How to Watch/Listen
Puck drop is set for 6:00 PM at Kal Tire Place. Fans can tune in for all the action starting with the 5:45 pre-game show on 107.5 Beach Radio, Vernon Matters, or stream it live on FloHockey.