Allan ready to join AHL’s Rockford for playoffs

“We were down and out and we battled our way in,” said Allan. “I’m really proud of our group. That’ll be huge going forward into next season.”

As the season went on in Prince Albert, Allan gradually took on more responsibility. There was a dramatic shift in the blueline dynamic once captain Kaiden Guhle was traded, but Allan rose to the occasion.

“It’s obviously tough to fill (Guhle’s) shoes,” Allan said. “He’s a great player and a huge part of this organization so him leaving wasn’t easy for us. But I just stepped up in any way I could. I think me and Kosior kind of shared that job and did well with it.”

Known for his defensive game, Allan also showed off his offensive skills in the second half. After the trade of Guhle, Allan posted 31 points in the final 47 games, pushing him to 41 points on the year, a new career high.

“Getting that opportunity to play more helped a lot,” said Allan. “That’s just the plan to keep continuing to grow and get better as the season goes on.”

Although he’s played in two WHL seasons, Allan got his first taste of playoff hockey this year. His rookie season was cut short due to COVID and his sophomore campaign was in the bubble in Regina.

“It’s great to be able to play in front of these fans again,” Allan said. “Last year in the bubble, we were missing them. It sucks playing without anyone in the building so to actually play for something and play in front of people was great.”

Rockford finished fourth in the AHL’s Central Division, Texas fifth, during the regular season. The winner of that series will face the division leading Chicago Wolves in a best-of-five series.

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rob.mahon@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @RobMahonPxP

by Rob Mahon

Allan ready to join AHL’s Rockford for playoffs

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