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Ghost Pirates Clinch Historic Playoff Berth
TL;DR
The Ghost Pirates secured a historic playoff berth in the 2026 Kelly Cup Playoffs despite a loss, thanks to favorable results in the league. This marks the first playoff appearance for the franchise, which was established in 2022.
The Ghost Pirates secured their spot in the 2026 Kelly Cup Playoffs on Saturday night, capping off a late-season surge that pushed them into postseason contention. The clinch came despite a loss, as results elsewhere in the league sealed the deal.
The team came into existence in 2022, Savannah had never previously qualified for the playoffs, making this achievement a defining moment in the young franchise’s history.
Late-Season Surge Fuels Run
Savannah’s push into the postseason didn’t happen by accident. The team entered the final stretch of the regular season on a hot streak, including a run of four straight wins, all decided by a single goal, showcasing resilience in high-pressure situations.
Building a Young Franchise
The Ghost Pirates are one of the ECHL’s newest franchises, beginning play in the 2022–23 season and serving as an affiliate of the Florida Panthers.
They play their home games at Enmarket Arena in Savannah, and have steadily improved each season after missing the playoffs in their first three years.
What This Means
Photo Credit: Jacksonville Icemen
This first-ever playoff appearance represents a turning point for the franchise:
- Validation of growth after multiple rebuilding seasons
- Momentum for the fanbase in a growing hockey market
- Opportunity to establish postseason credibility in the ECHL
With their playoff berth secured, the Ghost Pirates now turn their focus toward making a deep run and continuing their rapid rise in professional hockey.
Q&A
How did the Ghost Pirates qualify for the 2026 Kelly Cup Playoffs?
The Ghost Pirates qualified for the playoffs due to a late-season surge and favorable results in other league games, despite losing their final match.
What is significant about the Ghost Pirates' playoff berth?
The playoff berth is significant as it marks the first time the Ghost Pirates, established in 2022, have qualified for the postseason in their franchise history.
What was the Ghost Pirates' performance leading up to the playoffs?
Leading up to the playoffs, the Ghost Pirates had a strong finish with four consecutive wins, all decided by a single goal, demonstrating their resilience in critical moments.
