Silver Knights clinch playoff berth for first time since 2022

Late comeback secures first postseason appearance in 4 years for AHL club

Apr. 5, 2026 at 5:42am

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The Henderson Silver Knights scored two late goals to defeat the Tucson Roadrunners 5-4 and clinch their first trip to the Calder Cup Playoffs since 2022, ending a 4-year drought for the American Hockey League franchise.

Why it matters

Making the playoffs is a major milestone for the Silver Knights, who have struggled to find consistent success since joining the AHL in 2020. This postseason berth represents a turnaround for the team and renewed hope for their passionate fan base in the Las Vegas suburbs.

The details

Down 4-3 with under two minutes remaining, the Silver Knights scored twice in the final 90 seconds to stun the Roadrunners and secure the playoff-clinching victory. The game-tying and game-winning goals came from forwards Sheldon Rempal and Sven Baertschi, capping off a dramatic comeback.

  • The Silver Knights last made the Calder Cup Playoffs in 2022.
  • The victory over Tucson on April 4, 2026 clinched their first playoff berth since then.

The players

Henderson Silver Knights

The American Hockey League affiliate of the Vegas Golden Knights, based in Henderson, Nevada.

Tucson Roadrunners

The AHL affiliate of the Arizona Coyotes, based in Tucson, Arizona.

Sheldon Rempal

Forward for the Henderson Silver Knights who scored the game-tying goal late in the 3rd period.

Sven Baertschi

Forward for the Henderson Silver Knights who scored the game-winning goal in the final minute of regulation.

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What they’re saying

“This group has worked so hard all season to get to this point. I'm proud of the fight and resilience they showed to clinch a playoff spot.”

— Manny Viveiros, Head Coach, Henderson Silver Knights

What’s next

The Silver Knights will await their first-round playoff opponent, which will be determined in the final days of the AHL regular season.

The takeaway

After several seasons of missing the playoffs, the Silver Knights have finally broken through and earned a postseason berth, providing their fans with renewed hope and excitement for the future of the franchise.