Photos: Game night with the Alaska Aces as the franchise nears an end

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Alaska Aces players listen to head coach Rob Murray speak in their locker room before they gear up to play on April 5, 2017. (Marc Lester / Alaska Dispatch News)

The Alaska Aces opened their final three-game series of the regular season on Wednesday, April 6. It could be their final home games of the franchise. The ECHL club announced that it will fold after this season due to financial difficulties. The Aces haven't been eliminated from the playoffs yet, but their hopes dimmed after Wednesday's loss to the Steelheads, 2-0.

Take a deeper look at what may be one of the final Aces game nights at the Sullivan Arena. This photo essay explores the hours before the puck drops, the players' preparations for the game, the view from the team's bench during the game and some of the club's fans.

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