How would the Windsor Spitfires play after a 44-day layoff leading up to the Memorial Cup?
That was the big question leading up to the opening game at the WFCU Centre Friday night.
The Spitfires got goals from Jeremiah Addison, Jeremy Bracco and Aaron Luchuk and 20 saves from Michael DiPietro to knock off the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League champion Saint John Sea Dogs 3-2.
Jeremiah Addison celebrates after scoring at the Memorial Cup, May 19, 2017 (Tim Cornett/WindsorSpitfires.com)
Windsor survived a late, third period scare when the Sea Dogs scored twice in a :24 span to close to within a goal. But with goalie Callum Booth on the bench for the extra attacker, Saint John could not get the equalizer.
The Spitfires outshot the Sea Dogs 23-22.
Windsor returns to action Sunday night against Seattle, while Saint John faces Erie on Monday night.
The Ontario Hockey League champion Erie Otters take on the Western Hockey League champion Seattle Thunderbirds Saturday afternoon at 3pm.
Spitfires stand during national anthem ahead of Memorial Cup opener, May 19, 2017 (Tim Cornett/WindsorSpitfires.com)