The stage is set for an AHL heavyweight showdown as the Rochester Americans (8-5-2-0) host the Hershey Bears (11-4-2-0) at Blue Cross Arena tonight. The back-to-back defending Calder Cup champions will look to continue their dominance, while the Amerks aim to defend home ice and build on their recent momentum. This matchup kicks off a four-game homestand for Rochester, setting the tone for a critical stretch of the season.
A Historic Rivalry Renewed
Tonight marks the 467th all-time meeting between two of the AHL’s oldest and most storied franchises. Hershey leads the league in Calder Cups with 13, including back-to-back championships in 2022 and 2023, and they are chasing a historic third straight title—something not seen since the Springfield Indians’ run in the early 1960s. Rochester, with six Calder Cups of their own, looks to reclaim some bragging rights against the Bears, a team that eliminated them in the 2023 Eastern Conference Finals.
Last season, Hershey swept the two-game season series against Rochester, though the Amerks did earn a point in an overtime road loss. The only other meeting between the two teams this season will come on January 19 in Hershey.
Recent Form
The Amerks snapped a four-game winless streak Wednesday night with a dramatic 2-1 overtime victory against the Laval Rocket. Rookie forward Lukas Rousek scored the game-winner in the final minute of overtime, and Brett Murray tallied the lone regulation goal for Rochester. Goaltender Devon Levi, freshly reassigned from the Buffalo Sabres, was sensational in his AHL debut, making 26 saves and earning first-star honors.
Hershey also played on Wednesday but saw a 3-0 lead evaporate in a 4-3 overtime loss to the Toronto Marlies. Despite the defeat, Hershey remains atop the Atlantic Division with an impressive six-point cushion over second-place Hartford. Bears forward Ethen Frank added to his season tally with an assist, extending his hot streak to points in three of his last four games.
Key Storylines
- Devon Levi’s Second Start: The highly touted rookie netminder will look to replicate his stellar debut performance as he gets the nod in goal for Rochester. Levi brings poise and athleticism to the crease and will be a key factor in containing Hershey’s potent offense.
- Rising Stars: Ethen Frank leads the AHL’s Eastern Conference with 11 goals, powering Hershey’s high-scoring attack. On the Amerks’ side, Isak Rosén has been an offensive catalyst, tallying 13 points in 14 games this season.
- Riley Fiddler-Schultz’s Momentum: After making his season debut Wednesday, the 22-year-old forward will stay in the lineup. Fiddler-Schultz impressed with his energy and contributions, earning high praise from head coach Michael Leone.
By the Numbers
- Power Play & Penalty Kill: Special teams will be pivotal, as both clubs rank in the middle of the pack on the power play (Hershey 19.4%, Rochester 14.9%) and penalty kill (Hershey 85.2%, Rochester 83.3%).
- Shots on Goal: Rochester leads the AHL in shots per game (34.8) and ranks third in fewest shots allowed (26.1). This shot differential could play a major role in controlling the pace of the game.
- Late-Game Dominance: The Amerks have been nearly unbeatable when leading after two periods, boasting a 31-0-2-1 record in their last 34 such games dating back to last season.
Hershey’s Coaching Connection
Bears head coach Todd Nelson, who recently reached the milestone of 1,000 pro games coached, has ties to Rochester. He played for the Amerks during the 2000-01 season, helping the team to a playoff appearance. Nelson’s illustrious career includes five Calder Cup championships, making him one of the league’s most accomplished leaders behind the bench.
What’s at Stake
For Rochester, tonight is an opportunity to continue their strong form and gain critical points in the North Division race. Meanwhile, Hershey looks to rebound from their overtime loss and reassert their dominance as the league’s top team.
Upcoming Schedule
The Amerks’ four-game homestand continues through Thanksgiving, with matchups against Utica, Cleveland, and Syracuse on the horizon. With 14 of their next 15 games coming against divisional opponents, this stretch will be crucial in shaping Rochester’s season.
Closing Thoughts
With two powerhouse teams and plenty of star power on display, tonight’s game promises to be a thrilling battle. Will the Amerks take the next step in their development under first-year head coach Michael Leone, or will the Bears continue their march toward another Calder Cup? Tune in at 7:05 PM on AHLTV or The Fan Rochester to find out.