Morgan KlimchukNow that football, at least north of the border, is done, it’s officially hockey season in the Great White North. In six of the eight cities that currently host CFL franchises, NHL teams are numero uno in the hockey market. Regina isn’t one of those six cities, of course.

Here, the Regina Pats are top (ice) dog. And after spending almost a month away from home to accommodate Agribition and the 2013 Grey Cup the team finally returns to the friendly confines of Brandt Centre with this tilt against the Prince Albert Raiders.

Over the last few weeks, the Pats played eight road games.  Five were against teams in the uber-tough WHL U.S. Division where they went 3W-2L.  In the three other games against Alberta opponents the Pats went 2W-1L. So overall they’re a very respectable 5W-3L in their last eight games — good enough for third place in the WHL’s East Division four points behind the Raiders.

Led by captain Morgan Klimchuk (pictured), who was recently named Best Pat in our Best of Regina readers’ poll, the Pats are playing a more wide open and exciting brand of hockey under rookie head coach Malcolm Cameron.

After the high of last Sunday, Regina sports fans may still have their heads in the football clouds. But hopefully there’ll be a good turnout for the team’s return to Brandt Centre.  Puck drop is at 7 p.m., and tickets are Adults $18, Seniors (60+) $15, Students 18 and under $8, Special Needs $8.