Ottawa 67's Enter Round Two with Eyes on the Prize
Ottawa's own OHL franchise, the 67's, has punched through to the second round of the Ontario Hockey League playoffs — and general manager Jan Egert wants fans to know this squad is ready for the challenge ahead.
Egert sat down with CBC Ottawa Morning host Rebecca Zandbergen to talk all things playoffs: what the atmosphere is like inside the organization, the traditions that fuel the team's postseason culture, and how the 67's plan to handle a scrappy Barrie Colts squad standing between them and a deeper run.
What Egert Had to Say
For Egert, playoff hockey is a different animal altogether. Speaking on CBC Ottawa Morning, the GM reflected on the rituals and routines that help young players stay grounded when the pressure ramps up. OHL playoffs are notoriously intense — full buildings, emotional swings, and a level of competition that separates clubs that are built for the long haul from those just along for the ride.
Egert spoke candidly about how the 67's stack up against Barrie. The Colts are a well-coached team with playoff experience of their own, making this a genuine test for Ottawa's roster. But the GM expressed confidence that the 67's have what it takes — the depth, the compete level, and the character in the locker room to make a series of it.
A Storied Franchise With Something to Prove
The Ottawa 67's are one of the most historic franchises in the OHL, having called the TD Place arena home for decades. For Ottawa hockey fans, spring playoff runs are a rite of passage — and this year, with a competitive roster and strong organizational support, there's genuine belief that a deep run is possible.
Playoff traditions matter in hockey culture, and Egert made clear the 67's take that seriously. Whether it's superstitions in the room, the energy of a home crowd at TD Place, or the bonds formed through a long regular season, those intangibles can make a real difference when series come down to a game six or seven.
Why This Series Matters for Ottawa
For a city that loves its hockey — from the Senators down to the junior ranks — the 67's playoff run is a big deal. Ottawa fans have rallied behind this team all season, and the second round against Barrie gives the organization a chance to show the league what this group is made of.
The Colts won't make it easy. But if Egert's confidence is any indication, the 67's are approaching this series with the right mindset: prepared, focused, and hungry.
Keep an eye on TD Place over the coming weeks. Ottawa playoff hockey is back — and it's heating up.
Source: CBC Ottawa Morning / CBC Ottawa RSS Feed. Interview with Jan Egert conducted by Rebecca Zandbergen.
