The Cape Breton Eagles are in the third round of the QMJHL playoffs for the first time in 17 years.

They’re experiencing sell-out crowds at Centre 200 in Sydney, and have become the hottest ticket in town.

Eagles forward Jacob Newcombe has been an offensive powerhouse with eight goals in nine playoff games.

The 19-year-old battled cancer before returning to the team earlier this year, and has been called an inspiration by many.

Newcombe says he’s had a lot of support.

“The guys on the team and the organization have supported me. The community has been amazing too. I’ve gotten so many messages from people I don’t even know. I appreciate all the support that they gave me,” said Newcombe.

Eagles captain Jacob Newcombe returned to the Cape Breton Eagles on Hockey Fights Cancer night at Centre 200 in Sydney in January, 2024. Newcombe had missed the first half of the season as he underwent cancer treatments. (Photo courtesy: Mike Sullivan)

The Sambro, N.S. native set a new Eagles record with six points in a single playoff game.

That came in Cape Breton’s 8-5 Game 4 victory over Chicoutimi, securing a second round sweep.

Newcombe says it doesn’t happen without his line-mates.

“Cam Squires and Cam MacDonald are great to play with. They seem to find each other. We’re getting pucks and bodies to the front of the net, and they seem to be going in at the moment.”

The Eagles open round three in Baie-Comeau Thursday night.

They’ll return to Centre 200 for Games 3 and 4 next week, both are already sold-out.

Newcombe says the top-ranked Drakkar will be a challenge.

“We just want to play Eagles hockey and stick to our identity. We want to be physical and play hard, and have good special teams. They’ve been ranked the top team in the CHL all year, it will be a big task for us but we’re always up for a challenge.”