The Abbotsford Canucks are on the brink of making franchise history.
They defeated the Charlotte Checkers 3-2 on Thursday night to take a 3-1 lead in the American Hockey League (AHL) championship series. With the win, the Canucks are now one victory away from claiming their first-ever Calder Cup.
Jonathan Lekkerimaki led the offence with two goals. Centre Ty Mueller of Cochrane assisted on both, including the eventual winner. Arshdeep Bains added another goal, while goaltender Arturs Silovs stopped 32 shots to secure the win.
The Checkers fought until the end, scoring twice in the third period, including a goal with 27 seconds remaining.
Game 5 is set for Saturday night in Abbotsford, giving the Canucks a chance to clinch the series at home. If necessary, the series will return to Charlotte for Game 6 on Monday.