Box Score After an impressive regular season, finishing second in their division and fourth in the Eastern Conference, the Nipissing Lakers men's hockey team has their sights set on a long playoff run.

The Lakers began the post-season Wednesday night hosting the Ottawa Gee Gees in the opening round of the OUA Playoffs, as the four versus five matchup.

After three tough periods, it was the Lakers that blanked the Gee Gees, winning 4-0.

Nipissing struck first, just four minutes into the period as Gael Lubwele snapped a shot to the back of the net.

Linemate Colby Tower and defenceman Mathieu Franche earned assists on the goal.

Five minutes later, the Lakers doubled their lead thanks to standout rookie Harrison Caines, who banged home a loose puck at the top of the crease.

Parker Bowman and Charles Farmer picked up helpers on the second Nipissing goal.

The Lakers wrapped up the opening period up 2-0, despite being outshot 11-7 by the Gee Gees.

In the middle frame, there was nothing to report in terms of offence, despite a few chances at each end and the score remained 2-0 in favour of the Lakers after 40 minutes.

Shots still favour Ottawa and read 20-12 after two periods of play.

The Lakers added to their lead in the third period as Brock Welsh made it 3-0 Nipissing six minutes into the period.

The lone assist went to Max Griffioen.

With two minutes left and the Gee Gees goalie on the bench, Colby Tower officially sealed the game, hitting the empty net.

Jacob Collins grabbed the assist as the two veterans sealed the playoff victory for Nipissing.

Michael Herringer, who has been great for the Lakers in the second half of the year, continued his strong play, finishing with 28 saves.

Nipissing had 23 shots of their own at the Ottawa net.

With the win, the Lakers advance to the Conference Semi-Finals and will face the McGill Redbirds at home Saturday afternoon. 

Puck drop is set for 4:30pm at Memorial Gardens.