Kansas City Mavericks Edge Wichita Thunder 4-3

The Mavericks scored the game-winning goal in a close contest on Saturday night.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 2:22am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and energy of a professional hockey game, with overlapping shapes and planes representing the players, puck, and ice.A cubist interpretation of the intense back-and-forth action between the Kansas City Mavericks and Wichita Thunder in their close 4-3 matchup.Kansas City Today

The Kansas City Mavericks defeated the Wichita Thunder 4-3 in a tight hockey game on April 11, 2026. Casey Carreau, David Cotton, Jackson Jutting, and Tyler Schleppe all scored for the Mavericks, while Spencer Blackwell and Matt Crasa tallied for the Thunder.

Why it matters

The win keeps the Mavericks in contention for a playoff spot in the competitive Central Division, while the loss is a setback for the Thunder's postseason aspirations.

The details

The game was tied 3-3 late in the third period before the Mavericks scored the decisive goal to clinch the victory. Both teams played an evenly matched game, with the Mavericks outshooting the Thunder 32-29.

  • The game was played on Saturday, April 11, 2026.
  • The Mavericks will next face the Tulsa Oilers on Friday, April 17, 2026.
  • The Thunder will take on the Allen team on Sunday, April 12, 2026.

The players

Kansas City Mavericks

A professional ice hockey team based in Kansas City, Kansas that plays in the ECHL.

Wichita Thunder

A professional ice hockey team based in Wichita, Kansas that also plays in the ECHL.

Casey Carreau

A forward for the Kansas City Mavericks who scored one of the team's four goals.

David Cotton

A forward for the Kansas City Mavericks who scored one of the team's four goals.

Jackson Jutting

A forward for the Kansas City Mavericks who scored one of the team's four goals.

Tyler Schleppe

A forward for the Kansas City Mavericks who scored one of the team's four goals.

Spencer Blackwell

A forward for the Wichita Thunder who scored one of the team's three goals.

Matt Crasa

A forward for the Wichita Thunder who scored one of the team's three goals.

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What’s next

The Mavericks will look to build on this win when they face the Tulsa Oilers on April 17, while the Thunder will try to bounce back against Allen on April 12.

The takeaway

This close game between two Central Division rivals showcases the competitive nature of the ECHL, where every point is crucial in the race for the playoffs.