The Charlotte Checkers, sitting atop the Atlantic Division, are set to host the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins for a two-game series at Bojangles Coliseum on Friday and Saturday. This matchup marks the first time these two teams will meet this season, with the Checkers looking to build on their strong start at home while the Penguins aim to prove their offensive prowess on the road.
The series preview reveals a compelling contrast in team strengths. The Checkers enter boasting the third-highest-ranked penalty kill unit in the AHL, but their power play will need to improve against a Penguins team that ranks fifth in the league with the man advantage. On the offensive end, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton presents a significant challenge, averaging the fourth-most goals per game in the league, while Charlotte’s offense sits just outside the top dozen.
Checkers Lead Atlantic Division
As of the most recent standings, the Charlotte Checkers hold a firm grip on first place in the Atlantic Division with an 8-4-0-0 record. Their defensive resilience is a cornerstone of their success, allowing just 2.67 goals per game, which ties them for the 10th best in the AHL. Their penalty kill is particularly effective, operating at an 89.1% success rate, the third-highest in the league. However, their power play, converting at a 17.4% clip, ranks 19th, an area that could be tested against a Penguins team that excels with the extra skater.
The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, meanwhile, hold the fourth spot in the division with a 5-4-1-0 record. They bring a potent offense to the table, averaging 3.90 goals per game, the fourth-highest in the AHL. This firepower is strengthened by the league's fifth-ranked power play, which operates at a 25.8% efficiency. Their Achilles’ heel has been their own penalty kill, which ranks 22nd in the AHL at 77.8%, leaving them vulnerable on the defensive end when shorthanded.
Key Storylines and Players to Watch
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Checkers’ season has been their ability to win close games. Half of their 12 contests have been decided by a single goal, and they have a winning record in those tight affairs. This resilience will be tested against a Penguins team that has been successful on the road, posting a 4-2-0-0 record away from home this season.
Offensively, all eyes will be on Charlotte’s dynamic duo of Jack Devine and Gracyn Sawchyn. Devine has been on a tear, accumulating eight points in his last seven games. Sawchyn has been equally impressive, notching nine points over his last eight outings. From October 16 to the present, Sawchyn is tied for sixth in the entire AHL in scoring, while Devine is tied for seventh in goals, making them the focal point of the Checkers’ attack.
The Penguins will counter with their own offensive threats. Rutger McGroarty has been on a hot streak, putting up 10 points in his last five games. His performance will be critical in an effort to solve the Checkers’ top-tier penalty kill. For Charlotte, players like Donovan Sebrango, who has three points in his last two games, and Will Bitten, with three points in his last four, will need to contribute to keep the pressure on the Penguins’ 22nd-ranked penalty kill.
Fans attending the games can look forward to more than just the on-ice action. Friday is designated as Military Appreciation Night and a Family Night. The evening will feature special in-game content, new merchandise, and a $10 per ticket discount for families purchasing four or more tickets. Military-themed items, including signed jerseys, pucks and mini sticks, will also be auctioned, along with Friday Night Jerseys for Cooper Black, Brian Pinho, and Mitch Vande Sompel. The auction ends at 9 p.m. Friday.
Saturday is Hockey Fight Cancer, a night to honor those affected by the disease. Both games will be available for streaming via AHLTV on FloHockey, and fans can catch the radio broadcast on the Checkers App or online. As the first-place Checkers prepare for their first two meetings with the Penguins this season, the stage is set for competitive hockey.
