Photo: Bruce Bennett / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images
The Hershey Bears' season came to an end after a 4-1 defeat against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins in Game Four of the Atlantic Division Semifinals on Thursday (May 7) at the GIANT Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Despite outshooting the Penguins 38-30, the Bears struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, converting only one of six power plays.
The Penguins took an early lead with Joona Koppanen scoring just over a minute into the game. Hershey's Ivan Miroshnichenko tied the game with a power-play goal seconds before the first period ended. However, a shorthanded goal by Harrison Brunicke in the second period put the Penguins ahead again. Ville Koivunen extended the lead in the third period, and Gabe Klassen sealed the victory with an empty-net goal.
Bears head coach Derek King expressed pride in his team's effort, emphasizing the growth and development of the young players throughout the season. "I'm proud of these guys," King said. "They've come a long way. Hopefully, they learn from this, that sting. Drives them over the summer."
The Bears, who were aiming for their third Calder Cup this decade, will look to regroup and prepare for the next season, which begins in October. According to HersheyBears.com, King hopes the team will take the next step in the upcoming season.