Pats punch playoff ticket with victory in Moose Jaw

The Regina Pats got some payback — and clinched a playoff spot — with a 7-3 win over the Moose Jaw Warriors on Saturday night.

Regina and the Warriors had met Friday, with Moose Jaw earning a 9-5 win at the Brandt Centre.

On Saturday, the Pats were able to earn the win on the road and clinch a spot in the post-season for the first time since 2018.

Pats captain Connor Bedard scored his second hat trick in as many nights. He now has nine three-goal games this season.

Bedard also had two assists, giving him back-to-back five-point games. The 17-year-old — the projected No. 1 pick in the 2023 NHL draft — has eight goals and 14 points in his past three games.

In 54 games played this season, Bedard has amassed league-leading totals in goals (69) and points (139) and is tied for the league lead in assists (70).

Regina also got scoring Saturday from Parker Berge, Riley Ginnell, Braxton Whitehead and Zack Stringer.

The Warriors got goals from Martin Rysavy, Tate Schofer and Jagger Firkus.

Pats goaltender Drew Sim, who was pulled in Friday’s game, stopped 45 of the 48 shots he faced Saturday. Moose Jaw goaltender Jackson Unger faced 22 shots, stopping 16.

Regina will be in action Sunday in Saskatoon. It’s expected to be the biggest crowd in Blades history, with around 15,000 people expected at SaskTel Centre.