Overview
- The Marlies beat the Chicago Wolves 4-3 in Game 5 to capture the Calder Cup on Friday and close the final series 4-1.
- Artur Akhtyamov was named playoff MVP after a 15-7 run with a .923 save percentage, a 2.22 goals-against average and two shutouts in 22 postseason appearances.
- Vinni Lettieri scored the second-period power-play goal that proved to be the game-winner and finished the playoffs as the leading scorer with 11 goals and 26 points.
- Chicago avoided a sweep when Viktor Neuchev scored in overtime in Game 4, but Toronto responded in the clincher with a four-goal middle period sparked by Easton Cowan’s three assists.
- The on-ice celebration featured a public tribute to the late Rodion Amirov and the title run spotlights Marlies prospects whose play may accelerate roster and goalie decisions for the Maple Leafs.