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The London Knights have once again etched their name in hockey history by winning the Memorial Cup for the third time. On June 1, 2025, the Knights faced off against the Medicine Hat Tigers at Le Colisee Financiere Sun Life, securing a decisive 4-1 victory.
This win places the Knights alongside the Cornwall Royals, Kamloops Blazers, and Windsor Spitfires as the only teams to have won the prestigious tournament since its transition to a tournament format in 1972.
A fast-paced start
From the drop of the puck, both teams showcased their offensive prowess.
Within the first ten minutes, a staggering 19 shots were recorded, highlighting the intensity of the match. The Knights struck first when Henry Brzustewicz delivered a perfect pass to Jacob Julien, who skillfully maneuvered past Tigers’ goaltender Harrison Meneghin to score.
This early goal set the tone for the Knights, who quickly built momentum.
As the game progressed, Easton Cowan and team captain Denver Barkey added to the scoreline, pushing the Knights’ lead to 3-0 before the second period was even five minutes old.
Cowan’s goal not only showcased his skill but also made him the all-time leading scorer for the Knights in Memorial Cup history, surpassing Mitch Marner’s previous record.
Defensive battles and key saves
While the Knights dominated the scoreboard, the Tigers were relentless in their pursuit of a comeback.
Both goaltenders, Elliott for the Knights and Meneghin for the Tigers, were called upon to make crucial saves throughout the game. Despite the Tigers outshooting the Knights 32-24, they struggled to find the back of the net, with their only goal coming late in the third period from Gavin McKenna.
In a pivotal moment, the Tigers thought they had scored again, but a review revealed that the puck had made contact with a high stick before reaching McKenna, nullifying the goal. This moment underscored the importance of precision and attention to detail in high-stakes games.
Celebrating the champions
With the final buzzer, the Knights celebrated their victory, with Cowan being named the tournament MVP for the second consecutive year. His performance, along with Barkey’s two goals and Dickinson’s three assists, solidified their status as a formidable team. The Knights’ power play also proved effective, converting one of their two opportunities, while the Tigers were unable to capitalize on their chances.
This championship not only highlights the Knights’ talent but also reflects the legacy of the franchise, with 26 former players currently on NHL rosters. As the Edmonton Oilers prepare to face the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final, the Knights’ influence on the game continues to resonate.
As the Knights bask in their glory, fans and players alike are left to ponder what the future holds for this storied franchise. With a blend of young talent and seasoned veterans, the Knights are poised to remain a dominant force in junior hockey for years to come.