There’s something about ‘if at first you don’t succeed…’that could be applicable here.
More specifically, things haven’t gone according to plan for Ontario since the recent AHL All-Star break, as the Reign return home on Wednesday night having just dropped a pair of games to the Canucks up in Abbotsford.
By contrast, coach Andrew Lord’s group had plenty of momentum just a few weeks ago — including consistent wins in 2026, a three-game winning streak, and they even collected the team’s first hat trick in 658 days. They also closed out the ‘first half’ of the regular season in first place, putting a fitting cap on a strong stretch that lasted several months. As if that weren’t enough, the Reign were set to come out of the break with a trio of games against the last-place Canucks. On paper, everything appeared to be lining up perfectly for Ontario.
With two of those games already in the books — both ending in losses — the Reign will now try to salvage the three-game set with a victory.
Notably, Ontario has yet to drop three straight games at any point this season.
If there’s any silver lining to what’s happened in recent days, it’s that the Colorado Eagles have also dropped both of their games coming out of the break. Thus, Ontario hasn’t been losing ground in the Pacific Division.
Circling back to Monday afternoon’s loss, Kings prospect Aatu Jamsen was terrific, scoring two of Ontario’s three goals. The Finnish forward has elevated his game of late, recording 13 points (9G, 4A) over his last 19 contests.
Additionally, Martin Chromiak continued his strong season with another assist last time out. With 17 points (5G, 12A) over his last 18 games, the 23-yearold Slovakian forward now sits just two points shy of last season’s total of 39.
In net tonight, Erik Portillo is expected to get the start for Ontario. He suffered a rare loss over the weekend, after allowing two goals on just 13 shots. Having won 11 of his last 13 decisions, Portillo looks to get his team back on track tonight.
In other noteworthy news, Pheonix Copley will still serve as Portillo’s backup tonight, despite being recalled earlier this morning to practice with the Kings.
Look for Lord to switch up some of the forward lines tonight, as well. Below’s alignment is based upon what was observed during today’s morning skate. Indications were, Lord will finally put the Lee – Connors – Wright line back together; they were the most effective line for about 8-10 weeks heading into late December.
Reign Projected Lineup vs. Canucks
If there are any key changes during pregame warmups, this article will be updated.
Alexandrov – Gawdin – Chromiak
Lee – Connors – Wright
Pinelli – Jamsen – Guttman
Ziemmer – Hughes – Doty
Kirsanov – Booth
Hicketts – Salin
Bolduc – Millar
Portillo (starter)
Copley
Likely scratches: (F) Brown, Lawerence and (D) Dvorak, Rego
Recalled to LA: Ward
Injured: Burroughs
Key Game Info
Puck drop is set for 1:00 p.m. Pacific Time and will be streamed via FloSports. Additionally, a Reign radio feed is available here.
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