The Hershey Bears, reigning American Hockey League (AHL) champions, have earned a first-round bye in the ongoing Calder Cup playoffs. As the top team in the regular season with an impressive record of 53-14-0-5, the Bears will face the lowest-seeded team emerging from the Atlantic Division’s opening round. Head Coach Todd Nelson emphasizes the need to move forward and focus on the task at hand as they aim to become the first AHL team to win back-to-back Calder Cups since their own triumph in 2009 and 2010. Forward Alex Limoges highlights the team’s depth and preparation throughout the season. With several Bears currently supporting their NHL affiliate, the Washington Capitals, in the playoffs, Coach Nelson anticipates potential reinforcements for their own playoff campaign. Nelson, recently honored as the AHL’s Outstanding Coach for the team’s historic regular season, acknowledges the support of the coaching staff and players for this recognition. The Bears are utilizing the bye to address nagging injuries and look ahead to the second round of the Calder Cup playoffs.