Kisio respects what Pats bring

The Regina Pats and Lethbridge Hurricanes have lobbed a lot of compliments back and forth heading into the WHL’s Eastern Conference final.

Their pleasantries will likely come to an end when the puck drops tonight at the Brandt Centre, but Hurricanes head coach Brent Kisio won’t be the one to fire the first shot at his opponent.

“They’re such a good hockey team,” offered Kisio. “They’re so deep, they have great goaltending, their D can move the puck. There’s a reason they’re No. 1 in Canada. They are that good. It’s going to be a big, big challenge for us.”

The Hurricanes have responded to every challenge so far.

After overcoming a 3-1 series deficit against the Red Deer Rebels, Lethbridge prevailed in a tough seven-game clash with the Medicine Hat Tigers (51-201-0), who owned the WHL’s second-best record this season behind Regina (52-12-7-1).

Lethbridge (44-21-4-3) overcame injuries to five regulars versus Medicine Hat: Forwards Matt Alfaro, Zak Zborosky, Ryan Vandervlis and Zane Franklin, along with defenceman Calen Addison.

“We had a lot of adversity in that series,” said Kisio. “Lucky enough for us, a lot of the guys who came in did a great job. It was just awesome to see our team come together and really show the character and leadership in our room. We’re very proud of our guys.”

The Hurricanes concluded their second-round series on Tuesday — one day after Regina eliminated the Swift Current Broncos.

Neither side has had much time to rest or prepare.

“It’s a quick turnaround for both teams,” noted Kisio. “The difference with us is, the first round was a quick turnaround as well so we haven’t had a lot of days off. We didn’t sweep our first round (like Regina did) but, a good way to look at it is, we just have to keep playing and keep doing what we’re doing. We’re happy to be alive and still going.”

As for the injury situation, Lethbridge is still “pretty banged up,” said Kisio. “It doesn’t look like we’ll have a lot of guys coming back any time soon.”

The Pats are without centres Adam Brooks and Jake Leschyshyn, along with defenceman Dawson