The Tigers opened the Thanksgiving Tournament facing the Rocky River Club Buccaneers. Heights fell behind by two goals in the first period, but they came out much stronger in the second. Strong forechecking and hard work in the offensive zone led to a three-goal second period outburst. Finnish imports Aleksi Kuuri and Aleksi Vihanto each scored one, and Ben Urbas got the next to tie it at three, though Rocky River went back in front 4-3 by intermission. Penalties hurt the Tigers in the third period as the Buccaneers scored two powerplay goals to extend their lead to 6-3. Tyler Rudy converted a penalty shot to bring Heights closer, but they couldn't catch up. Aidan Hall made 24 saves in the loss.