In the highly anticipated 2023 Calder Cup Finals, the Hershey Bears and their home advantage dominated the first six games, setting the stage for an intense winner-takes-all Game 7. The outcome could have swung either way, but the Bears staged an extraordinary comeback when it mattered most.
Overcoming a daunting 2-0 deficit, the Hershey Bears displayed remarkable resilience and determination. With two goals in the second period, they turned the tide and pushed the game into overtime, eventually securing a nail-biting 3-2 victory. The defining moment came at 16:19 when Mike Vecchione unleashed a game-winning shot that sent the Hershey faithful into a frenzy.
This memorable triumph marked the Bears’ first Calder Cup championship since 2010, solidifying their position as the most successful team in AHL history with a record-breaking 12 Calder Cup titles. It is worth noting that this historic game was only the second Game 7 in Calder Cup Finals history to be decided in extra time, a feat not witnessed since 1953.
Hunter Shepard, the Bears’ exceptional goaltender, was rightfully awarded the coveted Jack A. Butterfield Trophy, recognizing him as the most valuable player of the 2023 Calder Cup Playoffs. Shepard’s outstanding performance throughout the playoffs mirrored that of the NHL’s Conn Smythe Trophy winner, showcasing his skill, composure, and ability to rise to the occasion.
Shepard’s contribution to the Bears’ success was immeasurable. Starting in every game, he demonstrated unwavering determination, recording an impressive 14-6 record. With a remarkable 2.27 goals against average, a .914 save percentage, and three shutouts, Shepard proved to be an impenetrable force. Astoundingly, he allowed two or fewer goals in 14 out of his 20 games, solidifying his reputation as a goaltender of exceptional caliber.
The Hershey Bears became the fourth team in AHL history to rally from a 2-0 series deficit and claim the coveted championship title. Their inspiring victory mirrored the remarkable accomplishment of the 2010 Bears, highlighting their unwavering spirit and refusal to back down.
In the exhilarating final game, the Hershey Bears faced an early setback as Ryker Evans of Coachella Valley opened the scoring at 4:41. Despite being outshot 17-12 in the first period, the Hershey Bears showcased their resilience and fought back. Coachella Valley extended their lead just 24 seconds into the second period, with Max McCormick finding the back of the net.
However, the Bears swiftly responded, with Connor McMichael delivering a crucial power play goal at 13:52. Positioned in front of the net and assisted by Mason Morelli, McMichael’s goal injected new life into the Bears’ campaign.
At 17:09, the Bears finally equalized the game. Aliaksei Protas delivered a precise pass to Vincent Iorio, whose one-timer shot was redirected by Hendrix Lapierre, securing his third playoff goal. This goal leveled the playing field and intensified the competition.
Although the Hershey Bears outshot the Firebirds 9-4 in the third period, a decisive goal remained elusive, resulting in a tense deadlock at the end of regulation. Yet, it was Mike Vecchione who emerged as the hero in the final moments of the third period. Seizing the opportunity from Henrik Borgstrom’s shot rebound, Vecchione netted his fifth playoff goal, cementing the Bears’ victory.
To celebrate their well-deserved Calder Cup triumph, the Hershey Bears will host a momentous celebration at Giant Center on Saturday, June 24 at 3 p.m. Fans will have the opportunity to join in the festivities and commemorate the team’s remarkable accomplishment.
