Thu May 22 00:30:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the AHL playoff action, focusing on the key storylines and developments:

**AHL Calder Cup Playoffs Heat Up: Series Tied, Upsets Looming**

**Across the AHL, Calder Cup Playoff series are intensifying as teams battle for survival. Several series are tied, and underdogs are threatening established contenders.**

* **Hershey Bears Face Elimination:** The defending Calder Cup champion Hershey Bears are on the brink, trailing the Charlotte Checkers 2-0. They must win three straight at home to keep their title defense alive. Goaltender Kaapo Kähkönen has been a wall for Charlotte, allowing only three goals in the first two games. The Checkers also added elite Washington Capitals prospect Andrew Cristall to their roster.
* **Rocket and Americans in close series:** The Laval Rocket and Rochester Americans are knotted at 1-1 in the North Division Finals after trading wins in Rochester. The series now shifts to Laval where Rochester has had 7 wins of its last 9 playoff games.
* **Central Division Clash Even:** The Milwaukee Admirals and Texas Stars are tied 1-1 after splitting games in Texas. A high-scoring Game 2 saw the Admirals prevail 6-4, but the Stars are confident in their road record and experience. The series now shifts to Milwaukee, with coaches from both teams anticipating a long, tight series.
* **Eagles Soar, Tie Series:** The Colorado Eagles bounced back from a Game 1 shutout to defeat the Abbotsford Canucks 5-3, evening their series 1-1. After shutting out the Eagles in Game 1, the Canucks expected a strong response and they got it. Goaltender Trent Miner earned his first win against Abbotsford. The series now moves to Colorado, where the Eagles boast a dominant home record.
* **Connections and Respections:** The intensity on the ice doesn’t diminish the mutual respect between the Admirals and Stars. Coaches recognize the high level of competition.
* **NHL talent in the AHL** Andrew Cristall, a top Washington Capitals prospect, recently joined the Hershey Bears.

**In Other News:**

* Several AHL alumni played key roles in Florida’s Game 1 victory over Carolina in the NHL’s Eastern Conference Final.
* Former AHL players also starred in the IIHF World Championship, representing multiple nations.

As the Calder Cup Playoffs progress, expect more dramatic shifts and intense competition as teams vie for a championship.

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