The Barrie Colts have advanced to the second round of the Ontario Hockey League playoffs after a decisive 5-0 victory over the Niagara IceDogs on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Sadlon Arena. The win closed out the best-of-seven series, with Barrie claiming victory in four of the five games played.
Goaltender Ben Hrebik led the way for the Colts in the deciding game, turning aside 29 shots to earn his first career playoff shutout. The team’s offence was equally strong, outshooting Niagara 43-29 throughout the evening. Brad Gardiner opened the scoring midway through the first period, followed by goals from Carter Lowe, Ben Wilmott, William Schneid, and Emil Hemming to secure the win.
This series victory marks the second consecutive season that the Colts have eliminated the IceDogs in five games during the opening round. The team entered the postseason as the second seed in the Eastern Conference, coming off a successful regular season where they earned 99 points and claimed the Central Division championship for the second year in a row.
Under the guidance of first-year head coach Dylan Smoskowitz, who took over the role this season while former coach Marty Williamson transitioned to focus on his duties as vice-president and general manager, the Colts are now preparing for their next challenge. The team will face the Ottawa 67’s in the second round of the playoffs, with the series beginning in Barrie. Game 1 is set for Thursday, April 9, at 7:00 PM at Sadlon Arena.
The upcoming series against the 67’s is expected to be a competitive matchup, as Ottawa finished the regular season with 100 points and recently swept the Kingston Frontenacs in their first-round series.
