The first confirmed Southern Conference playoff participant has been determined, as the defending Ray Miron Presidents Cup Champion Laredo Bucks have claimed their second straight Southeast Division title. With a 4-3 home win over Austin Saturday evening in front of a sold out crowd of 8,002, the Bucks could still be tied by Austin for the most points in the division, but will hold the first tie-breaker (most wins) should that happen. With the division title also goes a playoff berth, a shot at repeating as champions, and home ice advantage in at least the Southern Conference Semi-Finals.
Steve Simoes was the key to Laredos clinching win, scoring his 12th goal of the season and adding two assists. Laredos win also eliminates the Corpus Christi Rayz, division leaders for over 100 days earlier this season, from playoff contention.