The Cleveland Monsters staged a remarkable comeback in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals, forcing a Game 7 against the Hershey Bears with a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory. Defenseman Jake Christiansen, who returned to the lineup after a 10-game absence due to injury, scored the game-winning goal at 17:31 of overtime. This win marked the fifth time in AHL history that a team has pushed a series to Game 7 after losing the first three games.
The Monsters’ resilience was on full display as they once again tied the game late in regulation to force overtime. Brendan Gaunce scored with just 32.9 seconds left in the third period, nullifying Joe Snively’s potential series-clinching goal for Hershey. The back-and-forth action continued into overtime, where Christiansen sealed the victory with his first career postseason goal.
Earlier in the game, Owen Sillinger and Henrik Rybinski traded goals in the first and second periods, respectively. Goaltender Jet Greaves made 29 saves for Cleveland, while Hunter Shepard stopped 29 shots for Hershey, suffering his first playoff overtime loss.
The Eastern Conference championship will be decided in a winner-takes-all Game 7 at Giant Center on Wednesday night. Both teams have shown determination and skill throughout the series, making the final showdown a must-watch event for hockey fans.
The Monsters’ victory in Game 6 not only extended the series but also handed Hershey their first home ice loss of the postseason. The stage is set for an intense and thrilling conclusion to what has been a closely contested Eastern Conference Finals.
As the excitement builds for Game 7, both teams will be looking to leave it all on the ice and secure a spot in the Calder Cup Finals. The stakes are high, the tension is palpable, and fans can expect nothing short of a spectacular finish to this gripping series. Stay tuned for the epic conclusion on Wednesday night as Cleveland and Hershey battle it out for the chance to advance to the next round.