Minor Hockey Talks - Hockey Forum

The North Bay Battalion: Rebuilding Year or Playoff Dark Horse?

The Battalion are in a familiar, yet unfamiliar position. Three-time defending Central Division champs, now fighting for a playoff spot. Is this truly a rebuilding year, or are they being underestimated? Coach Oulahen draws parallels between this year's fight for a playoff berth and last year's conference final run, citing the importance of playing high-stakes hockey. Do you agree with his assessment? Is this team more dangerous than their current standing suggests?

The upcoming schedule features tough matchups: Brantford with its high-scoring Nick Lardis, Kitchener, and Barrie. Can the Battalion string together enough wins to secure their playoff spot? What are the key factors that will determine their success or failure in these crucial games?

While a four-point lead seems comfortable with only a handful of games remaining, Oulahen isn't taking anything for granted. He remembers previous leads evaporating quickly. Is this caution warranted, or is he overly concerned? Share your predictions for the Battalion’s final push. Will they make the playoffs? And if so, how far can they go?