The Ottawa Charge and Minnesota Frost face off in Game 3 of the 2025 Walter Cup Final at Xcel Energy Center, with the series tied 1-1 after Ottawa’s thrilling 3-2 overtime victory in Game 2.
Game Overview
- Date: Saturday, May 24, 2025
- Time: 5:00 PM ET
- Location: Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul, MN
- Broadcast: TSN/RDS (Canada), FanDuel Sports Network North, PWHL YouTube Channel
Team Breakdown
Ottawa Charge (1-1 series tie)
- Last Game: 3-2 OT win vs. Frost
- Key Players:
- Brianne Jenner – Leads Ottawa with three points, including the Game 2 overtime winner.
- Emily Clark – Scored the game-tying goal in Game 2, showcasing her clutch ability.
- Gwyneth Philips (G) – Has a .956 save percentage, proving to be a playoff star.
Minnesota Frost (1-1 series tie)
- Last Game: 2-3 OT loss vs. Charge
- Key Players:
- Taylor Heise – Leads the Frost with seven points, including a goal in Game 2.
- Lee Stecklein – A defensive force, logging heavy minutes and contributing offensively.
- Nicole Hensley (G) – Recorded a 3-0 shutout vs. Ottawa in the regular season, looking to bounce back.
Key Matchups & Storylines
1. Ottawa’s Resilience vs. Minnesota’s Experience
Ottawa is making history as the first Canadian team to reach the Walter Cup Final, while Minnesota is the defending champion. Can Ottawa continue its momentum, or will Minnesota’s playoff experience give them the edge?
2. Philips vs. Hensley – Goaltending Duel
Philips has been outstanding, allowing just four goals in two games, while Hensley has been solid but tested. The goaltender who steps up could decide Game 3.
3. Frost’s Home-Ice Advantage
Minnesota has been dominant at home, winning six of their last seven games at Xcel Energy Center. Can Ottawa steal a win on the road?
4. Special Teams Battle
Ottawa’s power play has converted at 22%, while Minnesota’s penalty kill has been perfect in the playoffs. If Ottawa can break through, it could be a game-changer.
5. Series Momentum Shift
With the series tied 1-1, Game 3 is pivotal. The winner will take a commanding lead, putting them one step closer to the Walter Cup.
Prediction & X-Factors
- Likely Outcome: A close, physical game with both teams battling for control.
- X-Factors:
- Jenner’s leadership – Can she continue her clutch performances?
- Heise’s offensive impact – If she dominates, Minnesota has the edge.
- Goaltending battle – Philips vs. Hensley could be the deciding factor.
GAME ODDS
Ottawa Charge 4.5
Minnesota Frost – 130
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 23, 2025
