Your Knights just got knocked out of the playoffs
Good morning from the Forest City — yes, the other London. The one that actually matters to us. Let's get into it.
Look, I've been covering this city for a decade, and I've seen some tough losses. I was there for the 2012 Memorial Cup Final when we lost to Shawinigan in overtime. But Saturday night's 4-0 shutout, sending the Soo Greyhounds through and ending the London Knights' season, that one stings a bit extra. Especially when you consider the talent that's come through Budweiser Gardens over the years, the kind of electricity a Knights playoff run brings to Richmond Row. It's more than just a game for us here; it's a deep part of the city's pulse when the green and gold are flying high.
### What This Means for London
This isn't just about hockey, you understand. A deep Knights playoff run, that's buzz. That's families piling into the King Street entrance, then hitting up the Covent Garden Market for a late dinner. That's the atmosphere spilling out onto the streets, making downtown feel alive. Without it:
* **A quiet spring:** Fewer packed nights at the Bud. * **A different kind of energy:** The city just hums differently when the Knights are playing for a championship. * **Time to look ahead:** We'll be talking about next season's draft prospects before you know it.
It's a shame, really. We've watched so many future NHL stars shine here, from Marner to Domi. This year's team had grit, they had heart, but the Greyhounds just had their number. Now, instead of buzzing about another deep playoff push, we're left with that familiar quiet settling in over the city as spring tries to finally arrive. It's a tough pill to swallow for anyone who calls the Forest City home and bleeds green and gold.
Brendan Fanshawe-Okafor, MiTL Sports Desk, London.
Tune into MiTL Mornings with Sarah and the crew for their take on the Knights' season — catch it live at mornings.live.