2025 USPHL Las Vegas Showcase Recap (Pacific Division)

The USPHL Pacific Division traveled to the America First Center where they took on teams from the Northwest Division during the 2025 Las Vegas Showcase. Read about what went down during the week of December 16-19, 2025!

Fresno Monsters (FRM) 

Game 1 | Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 2:00 PM PST | FRM vs. Bremerton Sockeyes

The Monsters kicked off their 2025 Las Vegas Showcase debut with a 6-4 win against the Bremerton Sockeyes on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. The first goal of this game was a power play goal scored by #96 William Lindgren midway through the first period (1-0). This goal scoring momentum continued into the second period which ended, 4-0, in the Monsters’ favor with goals scored by #11 Palla Xaver (1G) and #96 William Lindgren (2G). Although the Sockeyes were able to regroup and put up four goals during the third period (4-4), their last push was not enough to offset the Monsters’ momentum as #92 Alex McIssac (1G) and #96 William Lindgren (1G) closed out the game with a 6-4 victory. This Monsters’ win would not have been possible without the impressive goaltending performance by #30 Niksa Slade, who saved 23 out of 27 shots on goal, and #96 William Lindgren’s first hat-trick of this season. With a win under the belt, the Fresno Monsters entered a two-game winning streak after this Game 1 matchup. 

Game 2 | Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at 3:10 PM PST | FRM vs. Iron County Yeti

The Monsters’ momentum from their winning streak continued into their matchup against the Iron County Yeti on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 which ended with a 6-0 shutout. By the end of the first period, the Monsters had a 4-0 lead with goals scored by the following players: #92 Alex McIssac (1G), #20 Vertti Sakko (1G),  #21 Brian Erte (1G), and #96 William Lindgren (1G). Although both teams had great scoring chances during the second period, the Monsters were able to maintain their four-goal lead going into the last period of regulation. After regaining puck control during the third period, the Monsters were able to extend their lead and secure their 6-0 shutout with two goals scored by #19 Botond Levente Molnar (1G) and #15 Adrian Gomez (1G). With another outstanding performance, #30 Niksa Slade recorded his second shutout of this season after he saved all 30 shots on goal by the end of this matchup. The Fresno Monsters entered a three-game winning streak after their electrifying Game 2 victory. 

Game 3 | Thursday, December 18, 2025 at 4:00 PM PST | FRM vs. Seattle Totems

The Monsters continued to steamroll their competition with a thrilling 7-2 win against the Seattle Totems on Thursday, December 18, 2025. The first period ended with a tied standstill after #71 Nils Tunbratt answered back to the Totems’ opening goal (1-1). This tied standstill did not last long as the Monsters put up three unanswered goals, scored by #15 Adrian Gomez (1PPG), #96 William Lindgren (1G), and #92 Alex McIssac (1G), which ultimately gave them a 4-1 lead going into the last period of regulation. Although the Totems were able to momentarily make it a two-goal game with a power play goal scored early in the third period, their last push was not enough to hinder the Monsters’ momentum which resulted in another set of three unanswered goals being scored and a 7-2 victory. The three Monsters goals scored during the third period were by #71 Nils Tunbratt (1G), #92 Alex McIssac (1PPG), and #96 William Lindgren (1G). In regards to goaltending, #31 Noah Hammarstrom secured the Monsters’ win after he saved 20 out of 22 shots on goal by the end of this game. After another high-scoring win, the Monsters entered an exciting four-game winning streak. 

Game 4 | Friday, December 19, 2025 at 2:00 PM PST | FRM vs. McCall Smokejumpers

The Monsters closed out this series with a 6-1 win against the McCall Smokejumpers on Friday, December 19, 2025. This goal scoring momentum was kicked off in the first period which ended, 2-0, when #92 Alex McIssac (1G) and #11 Palla Xaver (1G) scored two unanswered goals midway through the period. The Smokejumpers got themselves on the board with an early power play goal scored a minute and thirty-eight second into the second period which momentarily made it a one-goal game (2-1). This Somekjumpers power play goal did not faze the Monsters as #96 William Lindgren (1G) and #20 Vertti Sakko (1G) extended the team’s lead with two unanswered goals scored during the latter half of the period (4-1). Although the Smokejumpers put up a good fight to cut their deficits, their last push was not enough to overtake the Monsters as they won, 6-1, when #9 Sebastian Vesterlund (1PPG, 1G) closed out the game with two additional goals scored. This win would not have been possible without the outstanding goaltending performance of #31 Noah Hammarstrom, who saved 12 out of 13 shots on goal by the end of this game. The Fresno Monsters find themselves with a five-game winning streak after their triumphant, 4-0, run in the 2025 Las Vegas Showcase.

When looking at the stats, the Fresno Monsters put up a total of 25 goals, 186 shots on goal, and 96 penalty minutes during the four games that were played during this series. They also ended with a 25.0% power play success rate and a 73.7% penalty kill success rate. The Fresno Monsters’ points leader was #96 William Lindgren (8G, 2A) who ended this series with 10 points which included a hat-trick in Game 1 against the Bremerton Sockeyes. A highlight regarding goaltending included a shutout by #30 Niksa Slade in Game 2 against the Iron County Yeti. The Fresno Monsters ended this series victoriously, 4-0, through consistency and perseverance.

Henderson Force (HNF)

Game 1 | Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 6:00 PM PST | HNF vs. Vernal Oilers

The Force had a rough start to their 2025 Las Vegas Showcase as they lost, 4-1, against the Vernal Oilers on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. The Oilers had a dominant start as they had a 3-0 lead going into the last period of regulation. Although #28 Nicholas Gallagher broke the Force’s drought with a power play goal scored early in the third period, their commendable last push was not enough to offset the Oilers' momentum. Henderson Force’s one-game winning streak came to an end after a rough Game 1 loss.   

Game 2 | Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at 5:10 PM PST | HNF vs. Seattle Totems

After a tough loss, the Force persevered and secured a 4-2 win against the Seattle Totems on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Although the Totems struck first with an early goal (1-0), Force’s #26 Reese Hicks answered back and tied the game, 1-1, with a power play goal scored during the latter half of the period. The Totems ended up having a 2-1 lead going into the last period of regulation despite the Force having multiple scoring chances during the second period. By sheer determination, the Force were able to muster three goals during the latter half of the third period and secured their first win in this series. The three goals which secured their 4-2 win consisted of two power play goals scored by #26 Reese Hicks (1PPG) and #55 Loui Lundahl (1PPG) as well as a goal scored by #17 Aleksander Leonelli (1G). This victory would not have been possible without the gutsy goaltending performance by #35 Ralfs Kalnins, who saved 27 out of 29 shots on goal by the end of this game. The Force entered a one-game winning streak after this hard-fought win. 

Game 3 | Thursday, December 18, 2025 at 2:00 PM PST | HNF vs. Rogue Valley Royals

The team’s drive continued into this matchup as the Force shutout the Rogue Valley Royals, 8-0, on Thursday, December 18, 2025. The Force ended the first period, 4-0, with goals scored by #73 Sixten Wramhed (1G), #9 Ryan Williams (1G), and #26 Reese Hicks (1PPG, 1G). This goal scoring momentum continued into the second period when the Force extended their lead, 6-0, with two goals scored by #26 Reese Hicks (1G) and #10 Christopher Bruder (1G). The Monsters then closed out the game, 8-0, with two goals scored by #88 Ryan Pavlinsky (1G) and #10 Christopher Bruder (1G). This win would not have been possible without the outstanding goaltending performance by #1 Christian Hubert, who saved all 17 shots on goal that he faced by the end of this game. Accomplishments recorded from this matchup included #1 Christian Hubert’s first shutout and #26 Reese Hicks’ third hat-trick of the regular season. After another impressive performance, Henderson Force extended their streak to a two-game winning streak. 

Game 4 | Friday, December 19, 2025 at 10:00 AM PST | HNF vs. Colorado Fighting Elk

The Force closed out their 2025 Las Vegas Showcase with an astonishing, 10-0, shutout against the Colorado Fighting Elk on Friday, December 19, 2025. The first period ended with a, 4-0, lead for the Force with goals scored by #23 Riley Cumby (1G), #88 Ryan Pavlinsky (1G), #28 Nicholas Gallagher (1G) and #11 Frank Barncord (1G). This goal-scoring momentum continued into the second period which ended, 9-0, in the Force’s favor as five goals were scored by the following players: #27 David Baxter Jr (1G), #24 Nikodem Wroblewski (1G), #11 Frank Barncord (1G), and #75 Nicholas Correnti (2G). Despite making an effort to cut their deficit, the Elk struggled to find their rhythm as #9 Ryan Williams closed out the game, 10-0, with one last Force goal scored late in the third period. This impressive shutout would not have been possible with the outstanding goaltending performance by #30 Lincoln Noahr, who saved all 8 shots on goal that he faced by the end of this game. Henderson Force will be entering the New Year with a three-game winning streak after their successful end to this series. 

When looking at the stats, Henderson Force put up a total of 23 goals, 191 shots on goal, and 75 penalty minutes during the four games that were played during this series. They also ended with a 36.4% power play success rate and a 90% penalty kill success rate. Henderson Force’s points leader was #26 Reese Hicks (5G, 2A) who ended this series with 7 points which included a hat-trick in Game 3 against the Rogue Valley Royals. In regards to goaltending, a couple highlights include shutouts by #1 Christian Hubert in Game 3 against the Rogue Valley Royals and Lincoln Noahr in Game 4 against the Colorado Fighting Elk. After a tough Game 1 loss, Henderson Force ended this series victoriously, 3-1, through sheer determination and perseverance. 

Lake Tahoe Lakers (LTL) 

Game 1 | Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 4:00 PM PST | LTL vs. McCall Smokejumpers

The Lakers kicked off their 2025 Las Vegas Showcase debut with a 5-2 win against the McCall Smokejumpers on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. The first period ended with a 3-0 lead for the Lakers as #15 Carver Alford (1PPG), #14 Leo Matthew Duggan IV (1G), and #24 Lewis Beddow (1PPG) scored three unanswered goals. This goal scoring momentum remained strong as #25 Bryn Studney-Amos answered back to the Smokejumpers midway through the second period (4-1) and #15 Carver Alford scored another power play goal during the third period (5-1). Although the Smokejumpers did make a commendable effort during their last push of the game, it was not enough to disrupt #31 Liam Freel’s performance in net for the Lakers as he saved 29 out of 31 shots on goal by the end of the game. The Lake Tahoe Lakers ended their three-game losing streak with this Game 1 victory.  

Game 2 | Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at 1:10 PM PST | LTL vs. Colorado Fighting Elk

The Lakers continued to dominate their competition as they shut out the Colorado Fighting Elk, 8-0, on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. #34 Mavric Boses kicked off the Lakers’ goal scoring momentum and gave the team a one-goal lead going into the second period (1-0). The Lakers continued to maintain puck possession throughout the second period which ended, 4-0, with three goals scored by the following players: #9 Lebron Sam (1G), #36 Ugnius Simbelis (1G), and #24 Lewis Beddow (1G). The goal scoring momentum concluded when the Lakers closed out the game, 8-0, with four goals scored by the following players: #7 Eric Kloss (1G), #5 Ethan Thomas (1G), #9 Lebron Sam (1G), and #27 Kasper Parkkonen (1G). In regards to goaltending, #1 Kohen Pirrone secured his first shutout of the season after he saved all 9 shots on goal that he faced during his 2025 Las Vegas Showcase debut. The Lakers ended up extending their streak to a two-game winning streak after their early successes during this series. 

Game 3 | Thursday, December 18, 2025 at 6:00 PM PST | LTL vs. Bremerton Sockeyes

The Lakers’ two-game winning streak came to an end when the Bremerton Sockeyes won, 4-1, on Thursday, December 18, 2025. Although the Lakers were able to tie the game during the first period when #25 Bryn Studney-Amos answered back to the Sockeyes’ opening goal (1-1), their last push was not enough to offset the Sockeyes’ three unanswered goals which secured their 4-1 win. 

Game 4 | Friday, December 19, 2025 at 12:00 PM PST | LTL vs. SDS

The Lakers ended this series with a 3-2 overtime win against the San Diego Sabers on Friday, December 19, 2025. The first period ended, 1-0, in the Lakers’ favor when #27 Kasper Parkkonen scored two minutes into the period. The Sabers regrouped during the second period which ended, 2-1, in their favor with a power play goal scored by #7 Harris Shular and a goal scored by #23 Payton Hauge. With time winding down, Lakers’ #15 Carver Alford tied the game, 2-2, with a power play goal scored during the third period. Overtime was forced after the game remained at a tied standstill due to the stellar goaltending by both teams. With twenty-four seconds remaining in overtime, #15 Carver Alford scored the game winning power play goal for the Lakers which ended the game, 3-2, in their favor. In regards to goaltending, #37 Brooks Smyrski recorded his first overtime win after he saved 33 out of 35 shots on goal while Sabers’ #33 Jovin Manhas saved 37 out of 40 shots on goal by the end of this game. The Lake Tahoe Lakers will be entering the new year with a one-game winning streak after closing this series with a hard-fought win. 

When looking at the stats, the Lake Tahoe Lakers put up a total of 17 goals, 174 shots on goal, and 40 penalty minutes during the four games that were played during this series. They also ended with a 37.8% power play success rate and a 78.9% penalty kill success rate. The Lake Tahoe Lakers’ points leader was #15 Carver Alford (4G, 3A) who ended this series with 7 points. In regards to goaltending, a couple highlights include a shutout by #1 Kohen Pirrone in Game 2 against the Colorado Fighting Elk and an overtime win by #37 Brooks Smyrski in Game 4 against the San Diego Sabers. The Lake Tahoe Lakers ended this series, 3-1, through hard work and tenacity.

Long Beach Bombers (LBB)

Game 1 | Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 3:10 PM PST | LBB vs. Rogue Valley Royals

The Bombers came into this matchup with a bang as they won, 8-2, against the Rogue Valley Royals during their 2025 Las Vegas Showcase debut on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. The first period ended in the Bombers’ favor, 5-2, with goals scored by the following players: #61 Steven Anderson (1G), #14 Jackson Litzinger (1G, 1PPG), #71 Corbin Breen (1G), and #11 Marcus Vargas (1G). The Bombers regrouped after a scoreless second period and lit up the third period with three unanswered goals scored by #14 Jackson Litzinger (1G), #65 Michael Savic (1G), and #39 Hubert Blanchettetasse (1G). In the end, #14 Jackson Litzinger’s hat-trick and the impressive goaltending efforts by #33 Alexis Dumont, who saved 11 out of 13 shots on goal, secured the Bombers’ 8-2 win and ended the team’s two-game losing streak. 

Game 2 | Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at 12:00 PM PST | LBB vs. McCall Smokejumpers

The Bombers continued to wipe out their competition as they won, 6-3, against the McCall Smokejumpers on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Despite having a tied game early in the first period (1-1), the Bombers were able to regain and extend their lead, 4-1, with goals scored by the following players: #61 Steven Anderson (2G), #2 Trevor Godin (1G), and #71 Corbin Breen (1G). Although the Smokejumpers were able to make it a two-goal game by the end of the second period (4-2), the Bombers answered back thirty-eight seconds into the third period with a goal scored by #14 Jackson Litzinger (5-2). With time winding down, the Smokejumpers were able to muster one last goal midway through the period (5-3). Unfortunately for the Smokejumpers, their last push was not enough to overtake the Bombers as #88 Troy Smith closed out the game, 6-3, with one last goal scored late in the period. In the end, #72 Ethan Fitzgerald helped secure the Bombers victory after he saved 28 out of 31 shots on goal and extended the team’s streak into a two-game winning streak. 

Game 3 | Thursday, December 18, 2025 at 12:00 PM PST | LBB vs. Colorado Fighting Elk

The Bombers secured another impressive win after beating the Colorado Fighting Elk, 9-2, on Thursday, December 18, 2025. The goal scoring momentum started with two unanswered goals, scored by #55 Roman Adomitis (1G) and #14 Jackson Litzinger (1G), which gave the Bombers a 2-0 lead by the end of the first period. Although the Elk were able to put up two goals during the second period, their push was not enough to hinder the Bombers as they scored six goals which made it an, 8-2, game going into the last period of regulation. The six Bombers goals scored during the second period were by the following players: #14 Jackson Litzinger (1G), #88 Troy Smith (1PPG, 2G), #20 Tevin Stokes (1G), #17 Jeremy Loosmore (1G). Bombers’ #88 Troy Smith ended up scoring the last goal of the game which ended with a final score of, 9-2, in their favor. This win was greatly benefited by the in net performance by #1 Sebastian Kica, who saved 9 out of 11 shots on goal, and #88 Troy Smith’s first hat-trick of the regular season. With another victory recorded, the Bombers entered a three-game winning streak which they would use as momentum in their last matchup of this series. 

Game 4 | Friday, December 19, 2025 at 5:10 PM PST | LBB vs. Bremerton Sockeyes

The Bombers closed out this series with a 7-1 win against the Bremerton Sockeyes on Friday, December 19, 2025. Despite being down one-goal by the end of the first period, the Bombers regrouped and put up five unanswered goals which gave them a 5-1 lead going into the last period of regulation. The five Bombers goals scored during the second period were by the following players: #55 Roman Adomitis (1G), #61 Steven Anderson (1PPG), #14 Jackson Litzinger (1G), #21 Daniel Fridyand (1PPG), and #19 Rohan Bhangoo (1G). The Sockeyes were able to cut their deficit by three when they scored a goal twenty-eight seconds into the third period, however, their struggles continued when the Bombers closed out the game, 7-1, with two goals scored by #88 Troy Smith (1G) and #19 Rohan Bhangoo (1G). In regards to goaltending, #32 Ethan Sellwood-Fernald secured the Bombers’ win after he saved 24 out of 26 shots on goal. The Long Beach Bombers find themselves going into the new year with a four-game winning streak after this thrilling series. 

When looking at the stats, the Long Beach Bombers put up a total of 30 goals, 192 shots on goal, and 55 penalty minutes during the four games that were played during this series. They also ended with a 33.3% power play success rate and a 100% penalty kill success rate. The Long Beach Bombers’ points leader was #12 Jackson Litzinger (7G, 3A) who ended this series with 10 points which included a hat-trick in Game 1 against the Rogue Valley Royals. Another hat-trick that was recorded during this series was by #88 Troy Smith in Game 3 against the Colorado Fighting Elk. After a thrilling four games, the Long Beach Bombers ended this series victoriously, 4-0, through their consistency and determination to maintain their winning streak.

Ontario Jr. Reign (OJR)

Game 1 | Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 5:10 PM PST | OJR vs. Seattle Totems

The Jr. Reign nearly shut out the Seattle Totems in their 2025 Las Vegas Showcase debut which ended with a 3-1 victory on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. #11 Mason Welsh opened this matchup with a Jr. Reign goal scored twenty-seven seconds into the first period (1-0). #25 Jackson Tremblay extended the Jr. Reign’s lead, 2-0, with a goal scored early in the second period (2-0). Although the Totems were able to make it a one-goal game during the latter half of the third period (2-1), #22 Samuel Delaquis quickly regained the Jr. Reign’s two-goal lead before time ran out and made it a 3-1 game. In the end, #29 Nicholas Perry secured the Jr. Reign’s win after he saved 35 out of 36 shots on goal which also extended their streak to a three-game winning streak. 

Game 2 | Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at 4:00 PM PST | OJR vs. Vernal Oilers

The Jr. Reign faced adversity and lost, 2-1, in overtime against the Vernal Oilers on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. After a scoreless standstill in the first period, #22 Samuel Delaquis got the Jr. Reign on the board with a goal scored late in the second period. The Oilers were able to tie the game early in the third period and forced overtime. Despite a tough loss, #33 Domenik Mclnenly made a commendable effort in net for the Jr. Reign as he saved 25 out of 27 shots on goal by the end of this game. Unfortunately for the Jr. Reign, this overtime loss ended their three-game winning streak. 

Game 3 | Thursday, December 18, 2025 at 5:10 PM PST | OJR vs. McCall Smokejumpers

After a tough loss, the Jr. Reign made a huge comeback with a 6-2 win against the McCall Smokejumpers on Thursday, December 18, 2025. The Jr. Reign opened up the first period with an early goal scored by #83 Noah Neil, which gave them a 1-0 lead going into the second period. The Smokejumpers’ game-tying opening goal was not enough to faze the Jr. Reign as they put up three unanswered goals, scored by #25 Jackson Tremblay (1G), #15 Walker Chitwood (1PPG), and #11 Mason Welsh (1PPG), and ended the second period with a 4-1 lead. The Jr. Reign found themselves with a 6-1 lead with two goals scored by #22 Samuel Delaquis (1G) and #15 Walker Chitwood (1G) early in the third period. Although the Smokejumpers made a commendable push with a goal scored during the final minutes of the period, their efforts were not enough to overtake the Jr. Reign. After a hard-fought win, the Ontario Jr. Reign’s one-game losing streak came to an end with help from #29 Nicholas Perry’s strong goaltending performance as he saved 19 out of 21 shots on goal. 

Game 4 | Friday, December 19, 2025 at 1:10 PM PST | OJR vs. Iron County Yeti

The Jr. Reign ended this series with a 6-1 win against the Iron County Yeti on Friday, December 19, 2025. After a thrilling first period, the Jr. Reign found themselves with a, 3-1, lead as #4 Mark Shibalov (1G), #25 Jackson Tremblay (1G), and #97 Brennan Monroe (1G) scored three goals in the beginning half of the period. The goal scoring momentum continued into the second period where they put up three unanswered goals scored by #11 Mason Welsh (1G), #22 Samuel Delaquis (1G), and #48 Marc Belanger (1G). Although the Yeti made a commendable attempt to cut their deficits, it was not enough to hinder the Jr. Reign as they won with a final score of 6-1. This near shutout was made possible with impressive goaltending performance by #32 Makai Collins, who saved a total of 14 out of 15 shots on goal. By closing out this series with another win, the Ontario Jr. Reign find themselves with a two-game winning streak as they enter the new year. 

When looking at the stats, the Ontario Jr. Reign put up a total of 16 goals, 134 shots on goal, and 55 penalty minutes during the four games that were played during this series. They also ended with a 14.3% power play success rate and a 100% penalty kill success rate. The Ontario Jr. Reign’s points leader was #22 Samuel Delaquis (4G, 1A) who ended this series with 5 points. After an eventful four games, the Ontario Jr. Reign ended this series, 3-1, through their hard work and sheer determination.

San Diego Sabers (SDS)

Game 1 | Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 7:10 PM PST | SDS vs. Iron County Yeti

The Sabers dominated their 2025 Las Vegas Showcase debut as they shutout the Iron County Yeti, 3-0, on  Tuesday, December 16, 2025. Sabers struck first with a goal #94 Sam Bailey late in the first period which gave them a 1-0 lead. #7 Harris Shular extended the Sabers’ lead, 2-0, with a power play goal scored in the latter half of the second period. #44 Kai Shepherd made it a 3-0 game with a goal scored late in the third period. In the end, #1 Stephan Vedernikov secured his first shutout of this season after he saved all 17 shots on goal that he faced during this game and ended the Sabers’ two-game losing streak. 

Game 2 | Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at 6:00 PM PST | SDS vs. Rogue Valley Royals

The Sabers’ momentum helped them to secure their 6-2 win against the Rogue Valley Royals on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. The first period ended with a, 3-0, lead for the Sabers with goals scored by #2 James Schneider (1G), #54 Hayden Steccaglia (1G), and #27 Matthew Matsuda (1G). After a scoreless second period, both teams lit up the third period which ended, 6-3, in the Sabers’ favor. Although two goals were scored by the Royals during the last period of regulation, this did not hinder the Sabers from extending their lead with goals scored by #91 Briar Dickson (1G), #8 Owen Robertson (1G), and #51 Dean Johnson (1G). The Sabers entered a two-game winning streak after this triumphant victory in this series. 

Game 3 | Thursday, December 18, 2025 at 3:10 PM PST | SDS vs. Vernal Oilers

The Sabers’ two-game winning streak came to an end after their 6-3 loss against the Vernal Oilers on Thursday, December 18, 2025. The first period ended with a tied standstill after #91 Briar Dickson answered back to the Oilers’ opening goal (1-1). The Oilers quickly regained and extended their lead, 3-1, until Sabers’ #27 Matthew Matsuda made it a one-goal game going into the last period of regulation (3-2). Despite their efforts to cut their deficits with a goal scored by #94 Sam Bailey, the Sabers fell short as the Oilers secured their 6-3 win with three goals scored during the third period. 

Game 4 | Friday, December 19, 2025 at 12:00 PM PST | LTL vs. SDS

The Sabers ended this series with a 3-2 overtime loss against the Lake Tahoe Lakers on Friday, December 19, 2025. The first period ended, 1-0, in the Lakers’ favor when #27 Kasper Parkkonen scored two minutes into the period. The Sabers regrouped during the second period which ended, 2-1, in their favor with a power play goal scored by #7 Harris Shular and a goal scored by #23 Payton Hauge. With time winding down, Lakers’ #15 Carver Alford tied the game, 2-2, with a power play goal scored during the third period. Overtime was forced after the game remained at a tied standstill due to the stellar goaltending by both teams. With twenty-four seconds remaining in overtime, #15 Carver Alford scored the game winning power play goal for the Lakers which ended the game, 3-2, in their favor. In regards to goaltending, #37 Brooks Smyrski recorded his first overtime win after he saved 33 out of 35 shots on goal while Sabers’ #33 Jovin Manhas saved 37 out of 40 shots on goal by the end of this game. The San Diego Sabers will be entering the new year with a two-game losing streak after closing this series with another tough loss. 

When looking at the stats, the San Diego Sabers put up a total of 14 goals, 133 shots on goal, and 63 penalty minutes during the four games that were played during this series. They also ended with a 14.3% power play success rate and an 84.2% penalty kill success rate. The San Diego Sabers’ points leaders were #27 Matthew Matsuda (2G, 3A) and #94 Sam Bailey (2G, 3A) who both ended this series with 5 points recorded. A goaltending highlight from this series included #71 Stephan Vedernikov’s shutout win in Game 1 against the Iron County Yeti. The San Diego Sabers split this series, 2-2, with a strong two-game winning streak followed by a tough two-game losing streak.

Ventura Vikings (VNV)

Game 1 | Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 12:00 PM PST | VNV vs. Colorado Fighting Elk

The Vikings had a strong start to their 2025 Las Vegas Showcase debut as they won, 8-2, against the Colorado Fighting Elk on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. The Vikings got on the board first with an early goal scored by #53 Calvin Ruggiero (1-0) and closed out the first period with a goal scored by #6 Ethan Yang (2-0). Although the Elk were able to make it a one-goal game early in the second period (2-1), the Vikings’ goal scoring momentum continued to bulldoze their competition as they ended the second period with a score of 6-1. The four goals scored during the second period were recorded by #38 Riley Richards (1G) and #14 Dominick Ybarra (3G), who secured his first hat-trick of the season. The Vikings continued to dominate the Elk as #6 Ethan Yang put up two goals scored during the last period of regulation and secured his second hat-trick of the season (8-1). Although the Elk were able to cut their deficit to six-goals (8-2), their commendable efforts fell short as #28 Jacob Kaput remained strong in net for the Vikings and saved a total of 22 out of 24 shots on goal by the end of this game. The Ventura Vikings extended their streak to a three-game winning streak after their impressive debut in this Las Vegas Showcase.  

Game 2 | Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at 2:00 PM PST | VNV vs. Bremerton Sockeyes

The Vikings continued to maintain control during this showcase as they won, 5-1, against the Bremerton Sockeyes on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. The first period ended, 2-1, in the Vikings’ favor with an opening goal scored by #13 Victor Langemar Persson and a power play goal scored by #68 Edvin Ahlperby late in the period. This goal scoring momentum continued into the second period with two goals scored by #51 Joe Lawrence midway through the period (1G, 1PPG). #25 Ryan Gill closed out the third period and made it a 5-1 game after he scored the last goal of the game. After another successful game in this series, #28 Alexander Wendt secured the Vikings’ win and extended their streak to a four-game winning streak after he saved 16 out of 17 shots on goal. 

Game 3 | Thursday, December 18, 2025 at 10:00 AM PST | VNV vs. Iron County Yeti

The Vikings secured their third victory in this showcase after beating the Iron County Yeti, 5-4, on Thursday, December 18, 2025. #16 Griffin Gagnon opened the game and gave the Vikings an early, 1-0, lead which was maintained throughout the remainder of the first period. The Vikings extended their lead, 4-0, with three goals scored by #14 Dominick Ybarra (1PPG), #38 Riley Richards (1G), and #53 Calvin Ruggiero (1G) at the start of the second period. Although the Yeti were able to cut their deficit down to two-goals during the latter half of the period (4-2), #47 Reese Tittle answered back for the Vikings and gave them a 5-2 lead going into the last period of regulation. The Yeti were able to make a huge comeback with two successful power play goals scored early in the third period (5-4), however, their last push was not enough to tie the game and force overtime. #31 Aiden Biswanger’s goaltending performance for the Vikings greatly benefited the team in securing their 5-4 win after he saved a total of 24 out of 28 shots on goal. The Vikings’ streak was extended to a five-game winning streak after this hard-fought battle. 

Game 4 | Friday, December 19, 2025 at 12:00 PM PST | VNV vs. Rogue Valley Royals

The Vikings closed out this series with an 8-2 win against the Rogue Valley Royals on Friday, December 19, 2025. After a scoreless first period, the Vikings took control of the game and ended the second period with a 5-2 lead. The five Vikings goals recorded during the second period were scored by the following players: #13 Victor Langemar Persson (1G), #51 Joe Lawrence (1G),  #14 Dominick Ybarra (1G), #53 Calvin Ruggiero (1G), and #6 Ethan Yang (1PPG). This goal scoring momentum continued into the last period of regulation which ended with three additional Vikings goals being scored by #47 Reese Tittle (1G), #51 Joe Lawrence (1G), and #53 Calvin Ruggiero (1G). #1 Wayne Gray was in net for the Vikings and secured their 8-2 win after he saved a total of 20 out of 22 shots on goal. The Ventura Vikings are now on a six-game winning streak after their impressive run during the 2025 Las Vegas Showcase.

When looking at the stats, the Ventura Vikings put up a total of 26 goals, 188 shots on goal, and 41 penalty minutes during the four games that were played during this series. They also ended with a 36.8% power play success rate and an 87.5% penalty kill success rate. Henderson Force’s points leader was #6 Ethan Yang (4G, 9A) who ended this series with 13 points which included a hat-trick in Game 1 against the Colorado Fighting Elk. Another hat-trick that was recorded during this series was by #14 Dominick Ybarra in Game 1 against the Colorado Fighting Elk. After a thrilling four games, the Ventura Vikings ended this series triumphantly, 4-0, through their consistency and hunger to keep their winning streak alive.

Overall, the 2025 Las Vegas Showcase was full of thrilling outcomes and high-scoring wins for the Pacific Division. Some memorable moments from this past week included multiple winning/losing streaks being extended, multiple shutouts, and hat-tricks being recorded. There were 6 hat-tricks recorded during week 13 of the regular season which were secured by: Fresno Monsters’ #96 William Lindgren (12/16/25);  Henderson Force’s #26 Reese Hicks (12/18/25); Long Beach Bombers’ #14 Jackson Litzinger (12/16/25) and #88 Troy Smith (12/18/25); Ventura Vikings’ #6 Ethan Yang (12/16/25) and #14 Dominick Ybarra (12/16/25). Looking ahead, we have a couple two-game and three-game series planned.

Below are the next scheduled USPHL match-ups and where to watch them:

Thursday, January 8, 2026

• The Lake Tahoe Lakers will face the Fresno Monsters on Friday, January 8, 2026 at 7:45 PM PST. This game will take place at Gateway Ice Center 

  • Watch on Black Bear TV

Friday, January 9, 2026

• The Long Beach Bombers will face the San Diego Sabers on Friday, January 9, 2026 at 1:00 PM PST. This game will take place at Ice Realm Carlsbad

  • Watch on Black Bear TV

• The Lake Tahoe Lakers will face the Fresno Monsters on Friday, January 9, 2026 at 6:00 PM PST. This game will take place at Gateway Ice Center

  • Watch on Black Bear TV

• The Iron County Yeti will face Henderson Force on Friday, January 9, 2026 at 7:00 PM PST. This game will take place at America First Center

  • Watch on Black Bear TV

• The Ontario Jr. Reign will face the Ventura Vikings on Friday, January 9, 2026 at 7:30 PM PST. This game will take place at Iceoplex Simi Valley

  • Watch on Black Bear TV

Saturday, January 10, 2026

• The Lake Tahoe Lakers will face the Fresno Monsters on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 5:00 PM PST. This game will take place at Gateway Ice Center

  • Watch on Black Bear TV

• The Iron County Yeti will face Henderson Force on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 7:00 PM PST. This game will take place at America First Center

  • Watch on Black Bear TV

• The San Diego Sabers will face the Long Beach Bombers on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 7:30 PM PST. This game will take place at Lakewood Ice

  • Watch on Black Bear TV

• The Ventura Vikings will face the Ontario Jr. Reign on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 8:30 PM PST. This game will take place at Ontario Center Ice Arena

  • Watch on Black Bear TV

Sunday, January 11, 2026

• The Iron County Yeti will face Henderson Force on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at 2:30 PM PST. This game will take place at America First Center

  • Watch on Black Bear TV

Stay tuned for the next weekly recap of the 2025-26 regular season for the USPHL Pacific Division!