The Wings hit the ice at the RBC Centre just before lunch for their first regular season matchup against the Dartmouth Whalers. The Whalers came out flying, finding the back of the net just over a minute into the opening frame to grab an early lead. But from that moment on, the Wings showed they were the stronger, more dominant team — pushing the pace, winning battles, and generating chance after chance.

The intensity never let up, with both teams trading big plays and close calls throughout the game. It wasn’t until early in the third period that the Wings finally broke through, when Lucas Van Dusen buried a beauty to tie things up, assisted by Cooper Norris and Harrison Lind. The momentum shifted instantly, and it looked like the Wings might take control — but the Whalers capitalized on a few quick opportunities, netting two back-to-back goals and another late in the frame to seal a 4–1 win.

Despite the loss, there were plenty of positives to take away. One player in particular stood out — Beckett Tink, who showed off some unreal hands and fired several dangerous shots that tested Dartmouth’s goalie all game long. For his skill, effort, and relentless positivity, Beckett earned the Player of the Game honours.

The Wings won’t have much time to dwell, as they’re back on home ice tomorrow night for Monday Night Hockey in the old barn — Scotia 2. They’ll face Bedford White for the first time this season, and it’s shaping up to be a great matchup. Let’s pack the rink, get loud, and show our Wings some love. Puck drops at 7:30pm.