Doug Woog once gave me directions.
In one of my first trips to Mariucci, I got lost. It happens. Beyond the ice, hockey rinks can be mazes to figure out where to enter and where you should be. Once you know the way, it can be easy. Early on, it's easy to not know where you need to go.
And Doug Woog of all people got me to where I needed.
Woog, who passed away Saturday at the age of 75 from complications to Parkinson's Disease, was around far after his coaching days at Minnesota ended in 1999. The South St. Paul native served as a commentator, an ambassador to the game and the University. Prior to that, he was a South St. Paul and Gopher player, an assistant coach at the 1984 Olympics before a 15-year career behind the Minnesota bench.
When he passed, I wrote that Minnesota hockey had lost a legend. The more I think about it, the more it undersells what Woog meant to hockey in Minnesota. For a certain generation, Doug Woog embodied hockey in Minnesota.
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This isn't going to be full of firsthand stories. I didn't cover Woog as a coach. Plenty of people who played for him, or grew up in the South St. Paul system, or worked with Woog at Fox Sports North can do it far better than me. I don't have more than a couple dozen interactions with Woog over the years.
If that is what you're looking for, you can stop reading now and go search for those.
At the same time, it's hard to go two feet in Minnesota hockey without running into someone who has their own Doug Woog story or six. That's the impact he has made, whether it's through leading a practice, a chance meeting, annually contending for an NCAA title or being the goofy commentator during Gopher games.
Through firsthand interactions and being Minnesota's Don Cherry equivalent during the 2000s, it's tough to be a Minnesota hockey fan and not feel like you knew Doug Woog. Even if you didn't.
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Minnesota hockey loves hockey in Minnesota. From the community aspect to the outdoor rinks to watching local players take their journey one step at a time, it's part of the fabric of the state.
The term "Minnesota's Pride on Ice" carries a dual meaning for both the past and present. On one hand, it stands for the players on the ice representing the University of Minnesota to the highest level. On the other hand, historically it stands for the journey these local players, whose game was forged on those outdoor community rinks, took dating back to the days of John Mariucci and John Mayasich.
A group of Minnesotans playing for the University of Minnesota was something Woog kept during most of his coaching tenure. At a time where the NHL had left and Gopher hockey was the highest-profile game in town, Minnesota continued to take pride in its own players.
It's the age I grew up. In hindsight, it was needed. It wouldn't - and doesn't - work today, but the 1980s and 1990s was an era when a competitive college hockey team could be made up of all-Minnesota players. (It's also not surprising Minnesota also broke through its NCAA Tournament title drought when going outside Minnesota.) A Minnesota alum coaching the Gophers to success with Minnesota players. Year-in and year-out the team came close before a pipe or a highlight-reel goal ended the run.
To that generation who grew up needing to understand Minnesota hockey at the highest level without the NHL, Woog was there. He was there for them too as a commentator.
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The last time I saw Doug Woog, it was for Bob Motzko's introductory press conference. The disease had certainly taken a toll. Fittingly, South St. Paul had already named their community rink after Woog as an honor. Still, three generations of Minnesota head coaches were there, as both Woog and Don Lucia, nearly 850 wins with the Gophers between them, sat down to watch their successor take over.
This day the directions were for a new era of Minnesota hockey. However, the fact he was there is a reminder the job is never over.
What Woog did for Minnesota - continuing what Mariucci and Maysich accomplished, what Herb Brooks added and helped grow, what continues today throughout the state - cannot be understated. In various roles, the impact Doug Woog had on Minnesota hockey should be mentioned among those.
Thanks to Woog, a generation exists of hockey people who now know where to go.
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Monday, December 16, 2019
Friday, December 6, 2019
Feature: All Signs Point North (Minnesota Hockey Journal)
For the December 2019 issue of Minnesota Hockey Journal, I wrote about the University of Minnesota Duluth's women's hockey team and the elite players from the Twin Cities who suit up for the Bulldogs.
The feature focuses upon senior captain Sydney Brodt (North Oaks) and sophomore forward Gabbie Hughes (Lino Lakes), who quickly became one of the top underclassmen in the country. Brodt, in her third season serving as UMD captain, has worked her way into the USA Hockey senior team, participating in the recent November series with Canada along with Bulldogs goaltender and 2018 Olympic Gold Medalist Maddie Rooney. I also spoke with Minnesota Duluth head coach Maura Crowell.
You can read the feature here or pick up a Minnesota Hockey Journal for free at your nearest rink (provided that rink is in Minnesota).
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Thursday, December 5, 2019
Feature: The Duluth Way (Minnesota Hockey Journal)
For the December 2019 issue of Minnesota Hockey Journal, I wrote the cover story on the foundation behind Duluth's recent success. From Duluth being home to the only outdoor hockey association in North America to Hermantown's run of success at the beginning of the decade to the Bulldogs winning the past two men's hockey national championships on the strength of local talent, the 2010s have seen highs for the Twin Ports.
I spoke with a variety of people for the feature, including Minnesota Duluth head coach Scott Sandelin, Hermantown head coach Patrick Andrews, and the next generation of players in current Bulldog Dylan Samberg and future Bulldog Blake Biondi (both from Hermantown).
You can read the feature here or pick up a Minnesota Hockey Journal at your nearest Minnesota rink. It's a good read and I had to leave several enjoyable tidbits on the cutting room floor that hopefully can see the light of day in another feature.
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Monday, November 18, 2019
College Hockey Stock Report: November 18, 2019
As the weather begins to get cold, revenge in college hockey continues to heat up en vogue.
Several schools and individuals earned some revenge over the weekend. Chris Bergeron, whose Bowling Green team's season ended in OT to Minnesota Duluth, defeated the Bulldogs with his new Miami team. The RedHawks entered Friday 2-5-2 and being handily swept by North Dakota, who earned a win and tie over a Denver team who ended the Fighting Hawks' 2018-19 season in the same building. Out East, Cornell defeated Clarkson in a battle of top-10 teams and rematch of the 2019 ECAC championship game.
Still, as fun as it can be to discuss teams and individuals earning revenge for what happened last season, the weather changing is a good time to remember how it's becoming more important to get revenge for what's happening this season. Records are being set. Identities are being formed. As the weather begins to get cold, 2019-20 has been heating up as a whole.
As always, here's what is going on throughout the college hockey landscape. This week's stock report recaps who is doing well, who is on their way down, and what trends should be followed.
Up: Michigan State
Picked to finish seventh of seven teams, the Spartans are getting off on the right foot with bragging rights to boot. Michigan State began Big Ten conference play 3-1 after sweeping in-state rival Michigan for the first time since October 2009. Danton Cole's team has shown flashes but is getting help from its depth that MSU missed.
Perhaps no game shows it better than Saturday's 3-0 win, in which Michigan State's John Lethemon earned his second shutout in as many weekends while the Spartans scored three goals from players not named Patrick Khodorenko or Mitch Lewandowski.
Down: The other Big Ten "M's"
Besides Michigan's follies against the Spartan, Minnesota was swept by Penn State at home. Both schools expected some early struggles. However, it's the way those struggles are happening that are worrying.
For Michigan, the Wolverines are dropping fast from the young team that beat Western Michigan. Mel Pearson's team has 1 Big Ten point in six games. Sure, injuries aren't helping, but it's concerning nonetheless. Four of those games came against the other teams picked to finish near the bottom while looking worse with each passing week.
(Heck, even Canisius is getting in on the Wolverines' style with throwback sweaters that look like the GLI love child of Michigan and Michigan Tech.)
For Minnesota, the Gophers turned a scoreless first period Friday into an 8-2 loss. Saturday's game featured 2-0 and 3-1 leads going away and losing 6-3. (One silver lining: Cullen Munson getting his first collegiate goal...as a junior.) Through six weeks, Minnesota has blown multiple tie games and third-period leads. Young team or not, that's not the identity any group wants yet one the Gophers, unfortunately, can claim.
Several schools and individuals earned some revenge over the weekend. Chris Bergeron, whose Bowling Green team's season ended in OT to Minnesota Duluth, defeated the Bulldogs with his new Miami team. The RedHawks entered Friday 2-5-2 and being handily swept by North Dakota, who earned a win and tie over a Denver team who ended the Fighting Hawks' 2018-19 season in the same building. Out East, Cornell defeated Clarkson in a battle of top-10 teams and rematch of the 2019 ECAC championship game.
Still, as fun as it can be to discuss teams and individuals earning revenge for what happened last season, the weather changing is a good time to remember how it's becoming more important to get revenge for what's happening this season. Records are being set. Identities are being formed. As the weather begins to get cold, 2019-20 has been heating up as a whole.
As always, here's what is going on throughout the college hockey landscape. This week's stock report recaps who is doing well, who is on their way down, and what trends should be followed.
Up: Michigan State
Picked to finish seventh of seven teams, the Spartans are getting off on the right foot with bragging rights to boot. Michigan State began Big Ten conference play 3-1 after sweeping in-state rival Michigan for the first time since October 2009. Danton Cole's team has shown flashes but is getting help from its depth that MSU missed.
Perhaps no game shows it better than Saturday's 3-0 win, in which Michigan State's John Lethemon earned his second shutout in as many weekends while the Spartans scored three goals from players not named Patrick Khodorenko or Mitch Lewandowski.
Down: The other Big Ten "M's"
Besides Michigan's follies against the Spartan, Minnesota was swept by Penn State at home. Both schools expected some early struggles. However, it's the way those struggles are happening that are worrying.
For Michigan, the Wolverines are dropping fast from the young team that beat Western Michigan. Mel Pearson's team has 1 Big Ten point in six games. Sure, injuries aren't helping, but it's concerning nonetheless. Four of those games came against the other teams picked to finish near the bottom while looking worse with each passing week.
(Heck, even Canisius is getting in on the Wolverines' style with throwback sweaters that look like the GLI love child of Michigan and Michigan Tech.)
For Minnesota, the Gophers turned a scoreless first period Friday into an 8-2 loss. Saturday's game featured 2-0 and 3-1 leads going away and losing 6-3. (One silver lining: Cullen Munson getting his first collegiate goal...as a junior.) Through six weeks, Minnesota has blown multiple tie games and third-period leads. Young team or not, that's not the identity any group wants yet one the Gophers, unfortunately, can claim.
Friday, November 15, 2019
College Hockey Mailbag: Contenders & Pretenders, Gopher Football, & More (Vol. II)
After a hiatus, it's time to bring back the college hockey mailbag.
Let's dig in for this week.
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Nothing like starting a college hockey mailbag with some football talk, right?
Minnesota's win over Penn State in a battle of 8-0 teams hit a sweet spot as someone following decades of Gopher football. (And I say this as someone surrounded by Nittany Lions fans Saturday. Credit to them for being great sports.) Seeing a maroon and gold crowd rush TCF Bank Stadium was night and day from previous times opposing fans did at the Metrodome. The only similar games in recent history that brought up the same feeling were the last two Axe wins and seeing Minnesota celebrating winning the Little Brown Jug in person in 2014.
None of those games, however, hold the same value for Minnesota from a stakes perspective as Saturday's win. The vast majority of fans rushing the field were not alive during Gopher football's glory days. Throw in the fact that the story has not been completely written and it's tough to come up with a comparable win for Gopher hockey.
Winning the 2002 national championship after 23 years seems too big for the occasion. The 0.6 victory over North Dakota shares more with the Axe and Little Brown Jug games. While Minnesota hockey has its share of big wins, sustained success makes it difficult to reach the highs of Minnesota football. If there is a recent college hockey comparison, it's likely Michigan Tech or Bowling Green returning to the NCAA Tournament in recent years after decades of disappointment.
The closest Gopher hockey victory to Saturday's football win I can come up with would be March 3, 2012 against Wisconsin. Trailing 1-0 in the third period, Minnesota scored a shorthanded goal by Erik Haula and a game-winning-goal by Nate Schmidt that earned one of the loudest roars at Mariucci. Given the Gophers were on a three-season NCAA Tournament drought and won the MacNaughton Cup that night, it's one that sticks out in memory.
Let's dig in for this week.
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with the massive Gopher football win Saturday (biggest in my lifetime), what is the equivalent Gopher hockey win? or is there not an equivalent given gopher hockey sustained excellence.— Chad Stevermer (@stretch3281) November 13, 2019
Nothing like starting a college hockey mailbag with some football talk, right?
Minnesota's win over Penn State in a battle of 8-0 teams hit a sweet spot as someone following decades of Gopher football. (And I say this as someone surrounded by Nittany Lions fans Saturday. Credit to them for being great sports.) Seeing a maroon and gold crowd rush TCF Bank Stadium was night and day from previous times opposing fans did at the Metrodome. The only similar games in recent history that brought up the same feeling were the last two Axe wins and seeing Minnesota celebrating winning the Little Brown Jug in person in 2014.
None of those games, however, hold the same value for Minnesota from a stakes perspective as Saturday's win. The vast majority of fans rushing the field were not alive during Gopher football's glory days. Throw in the fact that the story has not been completely written and it's tough to come up with a comparable win for Gopher hockey.
Winning the 2002 national championship after 23 years seems too big for the occasion. The 0.6 victory over North Dakota shares more with the Axe and Little Brown Jug games. While Minnesota hockey has its share of big wins, sustained success makes it difficult to reach the highs of Minnesota football. If there is a recent college hockey comparison, it's likely Michigan Tech or Bowling Green returning to the NCAA Tournament in recent years after decades of disappointment.
The closest Gopher hockey victory to Saturday's football win I can come up with would be March 3, 2012 against Wisconsin. Trailing 1-0 in the third period, Minnesota scored a shorthanded goal by Erik Haula and a game-winning-goal by Nate Schmidt that earned one of the loudest roars at Mariucci. Given the Gophers were on a three-season NCAA Tournament drought and won the MacNaughton Cup that night, it's one that sticks out in memory.
Monday, November 11, 2019
College Hockey Stock Report: November 11, 2019
Sometimes the best-laid plans do not work out.
Before the season began, the entire WCHA women's league scheduled itself to be idle this weekend. The idea was that since many teams would be missing players for the Four Nations Cup,
Turns out, no team was missing players for the Four Nations Cup. The annual tournament ended up canceled by host Sweden after its national team declared its intentions to boycott as part of an ongoing dispute over equal pay and conditions. Instead, only a few players are in Pittsburgh playing in a USA-Canada rivalry series with most of them being on teams playing.
Another team with changing plans was Denver, whose 44-0-0 dream came to an end in Duluth. Kobe Roth and Noah Cates erased a 3-1 third period deficit Friday in a battle of NCHC contenders before the Bulldogs became the other one in Denver's 8-1-1 record.
Each weekend sees ups and downs as players and teams adjust to new situations. That's the fun and joy of the sport and one that bodes well for a handful of new trends on a weekend where not everything went to plan.
As always, here's what is going on throughout the college hockey landscape. This week's stock report recaps who is doing well, who is on their way down, and what trends should be followed.
Before the season began, the entire WCHA women's league scheduled itself to be idle this weekend. The idea was that since many teams would be missing players for the Four Nations Cup,
Turns out, no team was missing players for the Four Nations Cup. The annual tournament ended up canceled by host Sweden after its national team declared its intentions to boycott as part of an ongoing dispute over equal pay and conditions. Instead, only a few players are in Pittsburgh playing in a USA-Canada rivalry series with most of them being on teams playing.
Another team with changing plans was Denver, whose 44-0-0 dream came to an end in Duluth. Kobe Roth and Noah Cates erased a 3-1 third period deficit Friday in a battle of NCHC contenders before the Bulldogs became the other one in Denver's 8-1-1 record.
Each weekend sees ups and downs as players and teams adjust to new situations. That's the fun and joy of the sport and one that bodes well for a handful of new trends on a weekend where not everything went to plan.
As always, here's what is going on throughout the college hockey landscape. This week's stock report recaps who is doing well, who is on their way down, and what trends should be followed.
Friday, November 8, 2019
What to know about Michigan (Ann Arbor)
There are plenty of places to get a series preview. Not too many places, however, preview where the series will be held.
I've been fortunate enough to travel to all seven Big Ten rinks. Why not lend my expertise on the subject to discuss what are the must-sees, places to eat, visit, and how the rink sets up for anyone traveling? I'm happy to perform a public service. For each subsequent Minnesota road trip, I am going to try and discuss the opposing locale as your friendly neighborhood hockey travel writer.
And if you want to know about Minnesota's opponent? Well, I did write a profile about the Wolverines back in August. So, read that too and pay some attention to Strauss Mann. He's continuing his second-half run. Also, read the latest stock report.
Monday, November 4, 2019
College Hockey Stock Report: November 4, 2019
Welcome to November where the Ivy League men's teams finally play.
Seriously, it will be good to not need to bring up that fact each week. Everyone is underway. Everyone! The Dartmouth men's hockey Twitter is now back up to 80-20 hockey versus dog content just in time as teams are already tossing teddy bears.
And there will be plenty to discuss as conference play begins in full. With a last-minute goal, Ohio State opened its Big Ten slate by sweeping Michigan to advance to 6-1-1 on the season. Notre Dame sophomore defender Nick Leivermann continued to score at Mariucci and nowhere else. The Boston College men's and women's teams each beat Providence. Army upset AIC. Long Island University got its first program win ever by defeating St. Michael's 5-2 on Friday.
As always, here's what is going on throughout the college hockey landscape. This week's stock report recaps who is doing well, who is on their way down, and what trends should be followed.
Seriously, it will be good to not need to bring up that fact each week. Everyone is underway. Everyone! The Dartmouth men's hockey Twitter is now back up to 80-20 hockey versus dog content just in time as teams are already tossing teddy bears.
And there will be plenty to discuss as conference play begins in full. With a last-minute goal, Ohio State opened its Big Ten slate by sweeping Michigan to advance to 6-1-1 on the season. Notre Dame sophomore defender Nick Leivermann continued to score at Mariucci and nowhere else. The Boston College men's and women's teams each beat Providence. Army upset AIC. Long Island University got its first program win ever by defeating St. Michael's 5-2 on Friday.
As always, here's what is going on throughout the college hockey landscape. This week's stock report recaps who is doing well, who is on their way down, and what trends should be followed.
Monday, October 28, 2019
College Hockey Stock Report: October 28, 2019
It's hard to believe October is already nearly over! At this rate, the season will fly by. Heck, even the Ivies finally started to play! (Well, the women's teams did. The men still wait until next weekend.) October ending means the start of full conference play is around the corner, as teams begin to discover their identities and contenders start to emerge.
As always, here's what is going on throughout the college hockey landscape. This week's stock report recaps who is doing well, who is on their way down, and what trends should be followed.
Up: Being Able To Read Ohio State's Numbers
For a second consecutive year, Ohio State unveiled black sweaters against Minnesota. For a second consecutive year, Ohio State wore the black sweaters in both October games.
And for the first time, I can read the numbers on Ohio State's black sweaters.
After last year's illegal uniforms (link), the Buckeyes made sure version 2 can be read. Ohio State can continue to want to be Darth Vader (Link) and pull off continuing to give Minnesota fits on and off the ice. (The Gophers also wore gold third sweaters in Friday's game, which saw OSU defeat the previously undefeated Gophers.) At this point, I wouldn't expect anything other than these every time Ohio State faces Minnesota.
After all, it's working.
As always, here's what is going on throughout the college hockey landscape. This week's stock report recaps who is doing well, who is on their way down, and what trends should be followed.
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| Photo credit: Ohio State Hockey |
Up: Being Able To Read Ohio State's Numbers
For a second consecutive year, Ohio State unveiled black sweaters against Minnesota. For a second consecutive year, Ohio State wore the black sweaters in both October games.
And for the first time, I can read the numbers on Ohio State's black sweaters.
After last year's illegal uniforms (link), the Buckeyes made sure version 2 can be read. Ohio State can continue to want to be Darth Vader (Link) and pull off continuing to give Minnesota fits on and off the ice. (The Gophers also wore gold third sweaters in Friday's game, which saw OSU defeat the previously undefeated Gophers.) At this point, I wouldn't expect anything other than these every time Ohio State faces Minnesota.
After all, it's working.
Monday, October 21, 2019
Monday Morning Gophers: Minnesota Sweeps Niagara, St. Cloud State
Don't take a Battle Hymn for granted.
Each weekend leaves several lessons to take away, but if there's one to sit and chew upon, it's the above sentence. Sweeps are not a gimme.
Minnesota went nearly the entire season in 2018-19 without sweeping a team at home. The Gophers needed exactly two games in 2019-20 to match the total after a 3-2 overtime win on Friday and 4-2 victory Saturday.
On paper, it's easy to write, "It was just Niagara. Of course, the Gophers should win. Why didn't they win by more?" That would be further from the truth for Minnesota.
No matter what from a name perspective, Niagara was set up to be a tricky team for the Gophers. In a way, the Purple Eagles are at the point Minnesota would like to be.
A season ago, NU added 11 freshmen and one transfer to a team that was in need of a makeover. The Purple Eagles come into the season with the top sophomore class from a scoring perspective and one who played its best hockey towards the end of the season. Niagara came within an overtime goal of making the NCAA Tournament.
Niagara also plays a very constricting defense, which makes it difficult for a team finding its chemistry in October to find success. It's a good lesson for Minnesota, with its 11 freshmen and one transfer, given the team faces the two-time defending champions next weekend in Minnesota Duluth, who do not give many opportunities.
All of these things are those which challenge Minnesota. By sweeping, the Gophers passed its next test. Enjoy the Battle Hymn that comes with a home sweep on Saturday night.
Truth is, it's not easy to sweep any team.
1. It wasn't the prettiest pair of wins, but the pair of wins didn't need to be pretty. There was a difference between coming through Friday after turnovers and a mishmash of failed plays with Saturday's much cleaner win.
However, in both games, it was nice to see a trailing Minnesota keep their foot on the pedal after scoring. The Gophers scored back-to-back goals in under 75 seconds in both games, turning a 1-0 deficit into a 2-1 game. Add in a pair of goals in back-to-back shifts in the win against Colorado College and that makes three in a row.
2. It's early in the season. Sometimes that means time to get used to new players and new numbers. In this case, I'm getting used to
Brannon McManus being the upperclassman on a line with freshmen Jonny Sorenson and Ben Meyers. In a very college hockey way, it's less about age and more about experience. McManus is younger than Meyers and two months older than Sorenson.
3. Once again both goaltenders played this weekend with veteran Jack LaFontaine starting Friday and rookie Jared Moe getting the nod Saturday. Both kept Minnesota in the game when needed. It'll be interesting whether the rotation continues. Friday's game is in Minneapolis while Duluth hosts Saturday.
4. Tyler Nanne left Saturday's game following being checked into the boards and did not return.
5. Friday marked Charlie Beattie's debut as the Gopher hockey play-by-play announcer on Fox Sports North. Based on my timeline, it seemed like he got positive reviews. I really enjoyed his call of Sammy Walker's OT game-winner. Beattie had a perfect combination of making Walker's winner seem like a big deal mixed with letting it breathe and allowing the crowd and band noise at Mariucci to take over. There was nearly 20 seconds between the winning call and when Ben Clymer next spoke.
Minnesota ends its opening month with a perfect record after sweeping St. Cloud State at home. Sydney Scobee finished with a 21 save shutout on Saturday before the Gophers won 4-2 on Sunday. (The game was further apart than the score indicated. Minnesota outshot SCSU 40-15 and the second goal came with 10 seconds left.)
This was a weekend where the Alex Woken-Taylor Heise-Grace Zumwinkle line shined, led by Woken scoring on Saturday's first shift. After the Potomaks and Wente line made the most of the trip to Pittsburgh, the group was only on the ice for a single goal, scored by defender Emily Brown. Alex Gulstene remained out, as Scobee started both games.
On paper, the next month gets difficult for No. 2 Minnesota, who received two of 15 first-place votes in the USCHO poll. The Gophers face Ohio State and Wisconsin in the next two weeks. Still, as much as the opening month was supposed to build to this stretch, here's something to keep an eye on: Minnesota's opponents are playing well. Colgate has not lost since facing the Gophers, Minnesota State just tied the Buckeyes twice, and Robert Morris, who gave Minnesota its biggest scare, tied and lost by a goal to another perennial winner in Clarkson.
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If you enjoyed this blog, you can follow Nate on Twitter and like/subscribe to his Facebook page. Thanks!
Each weekend leaves several lessons to take away, but if there's one to sit and chew upon, it's the above sentence. Sweeps are not a gimme.
Minnesota went nearly the entire season in 2018-19 without sweeping a team at home. The Gophers needed exactly two games in 2019-20 to match the total after a 3-2 overtime win on Friday and 4-2 victory Saturday.
On paper, it's easy to write, "It was just Niagara. Of course, the Gophers should win. Why didn't they win by more?" That would be further from the truth for Minnesota.
No matter what from a name perspective, Niagara was set up to be a tricky team for the Gophers. In a way, the Purple Eagles are at the point Minnesota would like to be.
A season ago, NU added 11 freshmen and one transfer to a team that was in need of a makeover. The Purple Eagles come into the season with the top sophomore class from a scoring perspective and one who played its best hockey towards the end of the season. Niagara came within an overtime goal of making the NCAA Tournament.
Niagara also plays a very constricting defense, which makes it difficult for a team finding its chemistry in October to find success. It's a good lesson for Minnesota, with its 11 freshmen and one transfer, given the team faces the two-time defending champions next weekend in Minnesota Duluth, who do not give many opportunities.
All of these things are those which challenge Minnesota. By sweeping, the Gophers passed its next test. Enjoy the Battle Hymn that comes with a home sweep on Saturday night.
Truth is, it's not easy to sweep any team.
Five Quick Thoughts:
1. It wasn't the prettiest pair of wins, but the pair of wins didn't need to be pretty. There was a difference between coming through Friday after turnovers and a mishmash of failed plays with Saturday's much cleaner win.
However, in both games, it was nice to see a trailing Minnesota keep their foot on the pedal after scoring. The Gophers scored back-to-back goals in under 75 seconds in both games, turning a 1-0 deficit into a 2-1 game. Add in a pair of goals in back-to-back shifts in the win against Colorado College and that makes three in a row.
2. It's early in the season. Sometimes that means time to get used to new players and new numbers. In this case, I'm getting used to
Brannon McManus being the upperclassman on a line with freshmen Jonny Sorenson and Ben Meyers. In a very college hockey way, it's less about age and more about experience. McManus is younger than Meyers and two months older than Sorenson.
3. Once again both goaltenders played this weekend with veteran Jack LaFontaine starting Friday and rookie Jared Moe getting the nod Saturday. Both kept Minnesota in the game when needed. It'll be interesting whether the rotation continues. Friday's game is in Minneapolis while Duluth hosts Saturday.
4. Tyler Nanne left Saturday's game following being checked into the boards and did not return.
5. Friday marked Charlie Beattie's debut as the Gopher hockey play-by-play announcer on Fox Sports North. Based on my timeline, it seemed like he got positive reviews. I really enjoyed his call of Sammy Walker's OT game-winner. Beattie had a perfect combination of making Walker's winner seem like a big deal mixed with letting it breathe and allowing the crowd and band noise at Mariucci to take over. There was nearly 20 seconds between the winning call and when Ben Clymer next spoke.
O CAPTAIN, MY CAPTAIN! Sammy gets his second of the year at the perfect time and wins this one for the #Gophers in OT. pic.twitter.com/FdwJnrzUop— Minnesota Men’s Hockey (@GopherHockey) October 19, 2019
Gopher Women Sweep St. Cloud State to move to 8-0-0
Minnesota ends its opening month with a perfect record after sweeping St. Cloud State at home. Sydney Scobee finished with a 21 save shutout on Saturday before the Gophers won 4-2 on Sunday. (The game was further apart than the score indicated. Minnesota outshot SCSU 40-15 and the second goal came with 10 seconds left.)
This was a weekend where the Alex Woken-Taylor Heise-Grace Zumwinkle line shined, led by Woken scoring on Saturday's first shift. After the Potomaks and Wente line made the most of the trip to Pittsburgh, the group was only on the ice for a single goal, scored by defender Emily Brown. Alex Gulstene remained out, as Scobee started both games.
On paper, the next month gets difficult for No. 2 Minnesota, who received two of 15 first-place votes in the USCHO poll. The Gophers face Ohio State and Wisconsin in the next two weeks. Still, as much as the opening month was supposed to build to this stretch, here's something to keep an eye on: Minnesota's opponents are playing well. Colgate has not lost since facing the Gophers, Minnesota State just tied the Buckeyes twice, and Robert Morris, who gave Minnesota its biggest scare, tied and lost by a goal to another perennial winner in Clarkson.
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If you enjoyed this blog, you can follow Nate on Twitter and like/subscribe to his Facebook page. Thanks!
College Hockey Stock Report: October 21, 2019
Another weekend gone answered some questions.
We learned Wisconsin can win defensive battles. We learned the Stefanos Lekkas and Jeremy Swayman experiences continue on for another season. We learned it's never too early for a players-only meeting, as was the case after Penn State followed up a 7-0 shutout win with a 4-0 shutout loss. (We're also learning that Hockey Bear is taking no prisoners this year.) We heard the Battle Hymn in Minneapolis, had an amazing matchup in Mankato, first wins for Merrimack and Colgate, and upsets in Columbus and Boston.
We saw the first-ever instance of 3x3 OT in women's D1 hockey when Minnesota State "defeated" Ohio State to take the extra conference point. Once again, Robert Morris took it to a perennial powerhouse, tying and falling 6-5 to Clarkson.
All in all, it was a quality weekend. Here's what is going on throughout the college hockey landscape as this week's stock report recaps who is doing well, who is on their way down and what trends should be followed.
We learned Wisconsin can win defensive battles. We learned the Stefanos Lekkas and Jeremy Swayman experiences continue on for another season. We learned it's never too early for a players-only meeting, as was the case after Penn State followed up a 7-0 shutout win with a 4-0 shutout loss. (We're also learning that Hockey Bear is taking no prisoners this year.) We heard the Battle Hymn in Minneapolis, had an amazing matchup in Mankato, first wins for Merrimack and Colgate, and upsets in Columbus and Boston.
We saw the first-ever instance of 3x3 OT in women's D1 hockey when Minnesota State "defeated" Ohio State to take the extra conference point. Once again, Robert Morris took it to a perennial powerhouse, tying and falling 6-5 to Clarkson.
All in all, it was a quality weekend. Here's what is going on throughout the college hockey landscape as this week's stock report recaps who is doing well, who is on their way down and what trends should be followed.
Saturday, October 19, 2019
Podcast: The Pipeline Show (October 18, 2019)
Earlier this week, I went on The Pipeline Show with Guy Flaming to discuss the Big Ten as part of its college hockey segment. We touched on all seven Big Ten teams and who to watch as kind of a preview to the season.
You can listen below.
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If you enjoyed this blog, you can follow Nate on Twitter and like/subscribe to his Facebook page. Thanks!
You can listen below.
--
If you enjoyed this blog, you can follow Nate on Twitter and like/subscribe to his Facebook page. Thanks!
Wednesday, October 16, 2019
College Hockey Stock Report: October 16, 2019
It's the offseason no more.
Besides the Ivies, the season is now underway. D1 women's hockey is nearing the end of its first month while a large portion of D1 men's hockey teams opened their season last weekend. Ohio State took home the Ice Breaker trophy. Several teams took home surprising results. I'm still not sure what to make of Colorado College's Friday sweaters.
Anyways, it's time for another edition of the college hockey stock report, recapping who is doing well, who is on their way down and what trends should be followed.
Slightly different than previous editions is ending this with who I thought won the week. It can be a team, a player, a coach, or anything that signifies the best in college hockey. Let me know who you think should win the week in the comments.
At the very least, talk of last season is trending downward.
Up: Players scoring first goals and getting first wins
One of the highlights each September and October is seeing players score their first collegiate goal or goaltenders getting their first win. There is something special to witness decades of work coming together into a single moment of celebration. It comes annually. The leaves fall and red lights get lit, but that doesn't make it any less special.
Hold: Any Minnesota Duluth championship hangover storyline
Banner raising night did not go well for the Bulldogs. After losing an exhibition game to Alberta, Minnesota Duluth opened the season with a 3-2 loss to UMass Lowell. The team did follow up the next day with a 2-1 win but lost the No. 1 ranking to Denver.
Sure, this wasn't the best opening stretch for UMD, but you know what else wasn't a great opening stretch? Last season. The Bulldogs tied and lost to Minnesota. Neither game was as bad as the scoreboard made it seem, which can also be said about this past weekend. UMD nearly came back from a 3-0 deficit, however, more importantly, the team outshot the River Hawks by a 2:1 margin. On Saturday, UMass Lowell had nine shots on goal at even strength.
It's not the result wanted, but the Bulldogs continue to give itself opportunities. If that continues, it wouldn't be a surprise to see a repeat of where Minnesota Duluth followed up its opening weekend last season with eight straight wins.
Besides the Ivies, the season is now underway. D1 women's hockey is nearing the end of its first month while a large portion of D1 men's hockey teams opened their season last weekend. Ohio State took home the Ice Breaker trophy. Several teams took home surprising results. I'm still not sure what to make of Colorado College's Friday sweaters.
Anyways, it's time for another edition of the college hockey stock report, recapping who is doing well, who is on their way down and what trends should be followed.
Slightly different than previous editions is ending this with who I thought won the week. It can be a team, a player, a coach, or anything that signifies the best in college hockey. Let me know who you think should win the week in the comments.
At the very least, talk of last season is trending downward.
Up: Players scoring first goals and getting first wins
One of the highlights each September and October is seeing players score their first collegiate goal or goaltenders getting their first win. There is something special to witness decades of work coming together into a single moment of celebration. It comes annually. The leaves fall and red lights get lit, but that doesn't make it any less special.
Couple firsts for the #Gophers last weekend in Colorado...— Minnesota Men’s Hockey (@GopherHockey) October 15, 2019
Congrats to Jared Moe (First Win) and Matt Staudacher (First Goal)! pic.twitter.com/5BZezNGsDL
Hold: Any Minnesota Duluth championship hangover storyline
Banner raising night did not go well for the Bulldogs. After losing an exhibition game to Alberta, Minnesota Duluth opened the season with a 3-2 loss to UMass Lowell. The team did follow up the next day with a 2-1 win but lost the No. 1 ranking to Denver.
Sure, this wasn't the best opening stretch for UMD, but you know what else wasn't a great opening stretch? Last season. The Bulldogs tied and lost to Minnesota. Neither game was as bad as the scoreboard made it seem, which can also be said about this past weekend. UMD nearly came back from a 3-0 deficit, however, more importantly, the team outshot the River Hawks by a 2:1 margin. On Saturday, UMass Lowell had nine shots on goal at even strength.
It's not the result wanted, but the Bulldogs continue to give itself opportunities. If that continues, it wouldn't be a surprise to see a repeat of where Minnesota Duluth followed up its opening weekend last season with eight straight wins.
Monday, October 14, 2019
Monday Morning Gophers: Minnesota's Opening Weekend Ends Up Like CC's Sweaters
Minnesota's opening weekend ended up like the new sweaters Friday of its opponent. There was a bit of everything to take away. Put together, I'm not quite sure what to make of it.
The Gophers began 2019-20 by splitting with Colorado College, falling 3-2 Friday before coming back to win 4-3 Saturday. Neither game featured a complete performance, which can be expected in early October for a team with 12 freshmen and two completely new goaltenders starting.
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| Photo Credit: @CC_Hockey1 |
The Gophers began 2019-20 by splitting with Colorado College, falling 3-2 Friday before coming back to win 4-3 Saturday. Neither game featured a complete performance, which can be expected in early October for a team with 12 freshmen and two completely new goaltenders starting.
Thursday, October 10, 2019
University of Minnesota Men's Hockey 2019-20 Full Preview
Throughout the summer, a building under construction greets me each morning, smiling with glass windows for teeth as it stands over the rest of the skyline.
It’s surrounded by some of the nicest buildings in town, many of which are newly completed. A pair have seen their best days after being recently overhauled, reaching new heights and reputations. One is making the most of its latest name change. Another nearby building seems to be the envy of the neighborhood and town. That one is an old friend who keeps winning awards and enjoying being considered the model building of both the area and town. All of them are moving on yet continue to judge themselves against the one currently under construction.
As the neighborhood continues to undergo changes, it joins a town where new, splashy buildings making an immediate impact on the scene mixed with some forgotten ones finding a renaissance, growing in favor.
Construction has made the skyline unrecognizable from the beginning of the decade. Many of the ones who perennially grab attention have been overshadowed and dropped off lists as new tastes emerge, challenging the old guard. Several of those buildings are making cosmetic and wholesale changes to keep up with the rest of the neighborhood.
That’s been the case for the building which greets me. Scaffolding exists, along with a crane and an observation deck devoid of people in its second year of renovations. Signs of change slowly appear on its young face.
Obviously, 600 words are not enough to preview Minnesota’s 2019-20 season and the job Bob Motzko is doing in Dinkytown. The Gophers enter Motzko’s second year as head coach still a work in progress with 12 newcomers in a group that’s largely of his own choosing. By age the youngest D1 men’s hockey team on average and by size the biggest, they add to a team which finished 7-2 over its final 9 games and third in the Big Ten. At the same time, Minnesota missed its second consecutive NCAA Tournament and third in the past four years after a run of six straight Big Ten and WCHA regular-season championships.
Let’s break it down more in-depth.
It’s surrounded by some of the nicest buildings in town, many of which are newly completed. A pair have seen their best days after being recently overhauled, reaching new heights and reputations. One is making the most of its latest name change. Another nearby building seems to be the envy of the neighborhood and town. That one is an old friend who keeps winning awards and enjoying being considered the model building of both the area and town. All of them are moving on yet continue to judge themselves against the one currently under construction.
As the neighborhood continues to undergo changes, it joins a town where new, splashy buildings making an immediate impact on the scene mixed with some forgotten ones finding a renaissance, growing in favor.
Construction has made the skyline unrecognizable from the beginning of the decade. Many of the ones who perennially grab attention have been overshadowed and dropped off lists as new tastes emerge, challenging the old guard. Several of those buildings are making cosmetic and wholesale changes to keep up with the rest of the neighborhood.
That’s been the case for the building which greets me. Scaffolding exists, along with a crane and an observation deck devoid of people in its second year of renovations. Signs of change slowly appear on its young face.
Obviously, 600 words are not enough to preview Minnesota’s 2019-20 season and the job Bob Motzko is doing in Dinkytown. The Gophers enter Motzko’s second year as head coach still a work in progress with 12 newcomers in a group that’s largely of his own choosing. By age the youngest D1 men’s hockey team on average and by size the biggest, they add to a team which finished 7-2 over its final 9 games and third in the Big Ten. At the same time, Minnesota missed its second consecutive NCAA Tournament and third in the past four years after a run of six straight Big Ten and WCHA regular-season championships.
Let’s break it down more in-depth.
Friday, October 4, 2019
What does St. Thomas going D1 mean for college hockey?
Hello, Division 1 hockey, it's us the University of St. Thomas?
Those are unexpected words to open a story. St. Thomas reportedly received an invitation to join the Summit League, which would make the St. Paul school the second Division 1 school in the state of Minnesota. If it happens, the Tommies would require a waiver by the NCAA to move directly from D3 to D1 beginning in the fall of 2021. Normal protocol sees schools moving up one division at a time.
The move has major ramifications for the Summit League as the Tommies, after earlier this year being kicked out of Division 3 MIAC, would give the conference the minimum six teams needed to play football. Fans of teams in the Summit League seem open and happy to UST joining compared to some of the other options.
Sadly, the move would also bring to an end one of the great Catholic rivals between St. Thomas and St. John's/St. Benedict's.
Since this is a place for college hockey discussion, you didn't come here for football takes. You came to answer the big question a splash like this brings to a growing realignment landscape. The one I wrote about earlier this summer. The Tommies currently sponsor 20 sports, including both men's and women's hockey.
Assuming that stays the same, what does St. Thomas going D1 mean for college hockey? Short answer: It's complicated.
Those are unexpected words to open a story. St. Thomas reportedly received an invitation to join the Summit League, which would make the St. Paul school the second Division 1 school in the state of Minnesota. If it happens, the Tommies would require a waiver by the NCAA to move directly from D3 to D1 beginning in the fall of 2021. Normal protocol sees schools moving up one division at a time.
The move has major ramifications for the Summit League as the Tommies, after earlier this year being kicked out of Division 3 MIAC, would give the conference the minimum six teams needed to play football. Fans of teams in the Summit League seem open and happy to UST joining compared to some of the other options.
Sadly, the move would also bring to an end one of the great Catholic rivals between St. Thomas and St. John's/St. Benedict's.
Since this is a place for college hockey discussion, you didn't come here for football takes. You came to answer the big question a splash like this brings to a growing realignment landscape. The one I wrote about earlier this summer. The Tommies currently sponsor 20 sports, including both men's and women's hockey.
Assuming that stays the same, what does St. Thomas going D1 mean for college hockey? Short answer: It's complicated.
Wednesday, October 2, 2019
Which teams enter 2019-20 with the biggest chips on their shoulders?
'Tis the season, so let's talk rankings.
Rankings: They're fun, highly debatable, and in college hockey, they don't actually matter. Only a math equation does. That doesn't stop us from analyzing every single ranking. We can't get enough.
Around this time year, it would be easy to make preseason rankings. That's not what I'm going to do, though. Instead, these are rankings where Minnesota Duluth doesn't automatically get placed first.
These are rankings for which teams can claim the biggest chips on their shoulders.
Playing the "proving them wrong" song can be a lifeline in sports, even if it ends up sometimes ringing hollow. College hockey is no exception. Let's be clear. All 60 teams would like to use the Rodney Dangerfield card. No respect!
Several players come to mind as those who used "us versus the world" and a chip on their shoulder as a motivation tactic. Both Denver and St. Cloud State got far with it last season after losing players early and head coaches to the NHL and Minnesota, respectively.
Without further adieu, here are the top 20 college hockey teams with the biggest chips on their shoulders. It's a ranking fitting for a year where the Frozen Four takes place in a city where "Detroit versus Everybody" exists as a mantra and lifestyle.
Rankings: They're fun, highly debatable, and in college hockey, they don't actually matter. Only a math equation does. That doesn't stop us from analyzing every single ranking. We can't get enough.
Around this time year, it would be easy to make preseason rankings. That's not what I'm going to do, though. Instead, these are rankings where Minnesota Duluth doesn't automatically get placed first.
These are rankings for which teams can claim the biggest chips on their shoulders.
Playing the "proving them wrong" song can be a lifeline in sports, even if it ends up sometimes ringing hollow. College hockey is no exception. Let's be clear. All 60 teams would like to use the Rodney Dangerfield card. No respect!
Several players come to mind as those who used "us versus the world" and a chip on their shoulder as a motivation tactic. Both Denver and St. Cloud State got far with it last season after losing players early and head coaches to the NHL and Minnesota, respectively.
Without further adieu, here are the top 20 college hockey teams with the biggest chips on their shoulders. It's a ranking fitting for a year where the Frozen Four takes place in a city where "Detroit versus Everybody" exists as a mantra and lifestyle.
Tuesday, October 1, 2019
60 Days. 60 Teams. 600 Words (or Less): College Hockey Previews By Conference
With the men's college hockey season officially beginning this week, it's time to be prepared before any banners are raised and pucks get dropped.
American International College
Army West Point
Bentley
Canisius
Holy Cross
Mercyhurst
Niagara
RIT
Robert Morris
Sacred Heart
Michigan State
Minnesota
Ohio State
Notre Dame
Penn State
Wisconsin
Brown
Clarkson
Colgate
Cornell
Dartmouth
Harvard
Princeton
Quinnipiac
RPI
St. Lawrence
Union
Yale
Boston College
Boston University
Connecticut
Maine
Massachusetts
Merrimack
Northeastern
New Hampshire
Providence College
UMass Lowell
Vermont
Arizona State
Colorado College
Denver
Miami
Minnesota Duluth
North Dakota
Omaha
St. Cloud State
Western Michigan
Alabama Huntsville
Alaska
Alaska Anchorage
Bowling Green
Bemidji State
Ferris State
Lake Superior State
Michigan Tech
Minnesota State
Northern Michigan
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| Photo Credit: Nathan Wells |
Since July, I've profiled all 60 teams, one by one and 600 words at a time. All can be found in order here, but rather than forcing all to go back, it seems easier for people to find them by publishing all teams by conference. Read up on your team, your rivals, your conference mates and that team with the NHL draft pick from your NHL team.
Atlantic Hockey
Air ForceAmerican International College
Army West Point
Bentley
Canisius
Holy Cross
Mercyhurst
Niagara
RIT
Robert Morris
Sacred Heart
Big Ten
MichiganMichigan State
Minnesota
Ohio State
Notre Dame
Penn State
Wisconsin
ECAC
Brown
Clarkson
Colgate
Cornell
Dartmouth
Harvard
Princeton
Quinnipiac
RPI
St. Lawrence
Union
Yale
Hockey East
Boston College
Boston University
Connecticut
Maine
Massachusetts
Merrimack
Northeastern
New Hampshire
Providence College
UMass Lowell
Vermont
Independent
Arizona State
NCHC
Colorado College
Denver
Miami
Minnesota Duluth
North Dakota
Omaha
St. Cloud State
Western Michigan
WCHA
Alabama Huntsville
Alaska
Alaska Anchorage
Bowling Green
Bemidji State
Ferris State
Lake Superior State
Michigan Tech
Minnesota State
Northern Michigan
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If you enjoyed this blog, you can follow Nate on Twitter and like/subscribe to his Facebook page. Thanks!
Monday, September 30, 2019
60 Days. 60 Teams. 600 Words (or Less): The Conclusion
All 60 profiles are published. Let's consider this and the following post(s) an extra bonus.
When I began tinkering with the idea of profiling all 60 D1 NCAA men's hockey teams, it seemed like an endeavor only a madman would undertake. 600 words each day spread out across 12 weeks? Trying to find 60 different ways to uniquely preview teams?
Turns out, that was an understatement. Writing 60 profiles was certainly a challenge. There were times I questioned myself for thinking this was a good idea, or that anyone wanted to read about college hockey in July.
However, 60 profiles later, I'm glad I spent the better part of the summer on the series. I learned a lot about the teams, myself and most importantly, you.
What's New: Writing over 36,000 words on college hockey. Holy crap.
Actually, when adding up everything left on the cutting room floor, it's likely closer to 40,000 words. Before starting the project, I thought it'd be difficult to hit 600 words. By the end, the opposite was true. Not every team was UMD long, but frequently 100-200 word sections were cut. Limiting to 600 words meant focusing on important issues and using an eye for editing. Honestly, the profiles were better off because of it.
I'm also happy to set a long-term, big-picture goal and see it through. I've been trying to improve upon that because sometimes it can be difficult as a freelance writer to keep motivation when deadlines are self-imposed. Researching every team and coming up with ideas of how to present was not easy work. However, this came to be a project challenging enough to push me the right amount.
Finally, writing about every Division 1 men's NCAA hockey team has been helpful for future feature and story ideas. The entire project helped me look at things from different angles. Several ideas brought up in profiles or coming across in research are already in mind. I can't wait to share some.
Closing Thoughts: Each profile, while sharing the same basic format, is different. Some are more straightforward previews. Some look at the future or big picture. Most are full of references and good, clean fun.
I enjoy writing a mixture of entertainment and knowledge. There's something to be able to poke fun at millennial "trends" and then use it to make a serious point about Denver's success. If you're entertained and learn a few things while brushing up on college hockey knowledge, I've happily done my job.
In closing, I want to thank everyone who helped make this possible. Several media members gave up their valuable offseason free time to answer questions. College Hockey Stats and CHN/USCHO/College Hockey Inc's websites were invaluable.
When I began, I said I wanted to try something different. These didn't have the backing of a major website or being pushed out by an app or newsletter. The series title isn't exactly optimized for search engines. It's a one-man operation. The profiles are simple for a reason. I set modest readership goals that would be attainable yet not easy.
This ended up far more successful than I could imagine. Each week more and more picked up the series. That's in part due to everyone who retweeted, commented, shared, posted links on boards, Reddit, discussed the series with me in person, etc. I hit the modest goal with 20 profiles remaining and nearly doubled it by the end. That's all thanks to you, the reader.
Thank you.
--
If you enjoyed this blog, you can follow Nate on Twitter and like/subscribe to his Facebook page. Thanks!
When I began tinkering with the idea of profiling all 60 D1 NCAA men's hockey teams, it seemed like an endeavor only a madman would undertake. 600 words each day spread out across 12 weeks? Trying to find 60 different ways to uniquely preview teams?
Turns out, that was an understatement. Writing 60 profiles was certainly a challenge. There were times I questioned myself for thinking this was a good idea, or that anyone wanted to read about college hockey in July.
However, 60 profiles later, I'm glad I spent the better part of the summer on the series. I learned a lot about the teams, myself and most importantly, you.
What's New: Writing over 36,000 words on college hockey. Holy crap.
Actually, when adding up everything left on the cutting room floor, it's likely closer to 40,000 words. Before starting the project, I thought it'd be difficult to hit 600 words. By the end, the opposite was true. Not every team was UMD long, but frequently 100-200 word sections were cut. Limiting to 600 words meant focusing on important issues and using an eye for editing. Honestly, the profiles were better off because of it.
I'm also happy to set a long-term, big-picture goal and see it through. I've been trying to improve upon that because sometimes it can be difficult as a freelance writer to keep motivation when deadlines are self-imposed. Researching every team and coming up with ideas of how to present was not easy work. However, this came to be a project challenging enough to push me the right amount.
Finally, writing about every Division 1 men's NCAA hockey team has been helpful for future feature and story ideas. The entire project helped me look at things from different angles. Several ideas brought up in profiles or coming across in research are already in mind. I can't wait to share some.
Closing Thoughts: Each profile, while sharing the same basic format, is different. Some are more straightforward previews. Some look at the future or big picture. Most are full of references and good, clean fun.
I enjoy writing a mixture of entertainment and knowledge. There's something to be able to poke fun at millennial "trends" and then use it to make a serious point about Denver's success. If you're entertained and learn a few things while brushing up on college hockey knowledge, I've happily done my job.
In closing, I want to thank everyone who helped make this possible. Several media members gave up their valuable offseason free time to answer questions. College Hockey Stats and CHN/USCHO/College Hockey Inc's websites were invaluable.
When I began, I said I wanted to try something different. These didn't have the backing of a major website or being pushed out by an app or newsletter. The series title isn't exactly optimized for search engines. It's a one-man operation. The profiles are simple for a reason. I set modest readership goals that would be attainable yet not easy.
This ended up far more successful than I could imagine. Each week more and more picked up the series. That's in part due to everyone who retweeted, commented, shared, posted links on boards, Reddit, discussed the series with me in person, etc. I hit the modest goal with 20 profiles remaining and nearly doubled it by the end. That's all thanks to you, the reader.
Thank you.
--
If you enjoyed this blog, you can follow Nate on Twitter and like/subscribe to his Facebook page. Thanks!
Friday, September 27, 2019
60 Days. 60 Teams. 600 Words (or More): Minnesota Duluth
University of Minnesota Duluth
2018-19 Record: 29-11-2 (14-9-1, 2nd in NCHC)
Head Coach: Scott Sandelin, 20th Year
Top returning scorers: Justin Richards (12G-20A) and Nick Swaney (15G-10A)
Top returning goaltender: Hunter Shepard (Sr.)
Sadly, this series comes to an end with the University of Minnesota Duluth being the 60th and final Division 1 men's hockey team profile. 60 Days. 60 Teams. 36,000 total words (or so). When your team repeats as national champions, there are no limits. 600 words don't seem like enough. Alert the affiliates. This one's going long.
If we're being honest, I'm more impressed with how Minnesota Duluth's second straight title came together than its first. That's no easy task. The Bulldogs were the last team in the 2018 tournament, needing several bounces to go its way both getting into and during several tournament games. The 2019 version of UMD was more traditional, winning as a No. 2 overall seed and becoming the first school since Denver in 2004-05 to repeat as national champions.
Normally no college hockey team wants to be the hunted. Even when the expectations hit an all-time high (i.e. Boston College in 2010-11, Denver in 2017-18, Minnesota in 2014-15), meeting impossible can be a difficult task.
And yet Minnesota Duluth was extremely comfortable being the defending champions, getting other teams to play Scott Sandelin's game. Putting itself in position to take advantage, UMD did not allow other schools many chances. As a team, the Bulldogs allowed the third-fewest goals per game (1.88) while leading the nation in shot margin (11.19 more shots per game its opponents). Minnesota Duluth trailed once in the NCAA Tournament (once again coming in the first round) and gave up seven goals in eight victorious postseason games across the NCHC and NCAA Tournaments.
What's New: Not as much as one would think.
Two key players from the past two seasons turned pro early in Mikey Anderson (Los Angeles) and Riley Tufte (Dallas). Sandelin received NHL overtures, interviewing with Anaheim, but returns. So do five of six key defenders along with four of the top six goal scorers.
Over the past two championship seasons, only eight players combined have graduated. The group may be small but made up of several who contributed major roles on and off the ice (see: Karson Kuhlman). Parker Mackay can be counted upon the group, graduating as captain and leading goal scorer (going 4G-2A in 4 NCAA Tournament games). Billy Exell got the game-winner against Providence. Peter Krieger had 54 points over the past two seasons.
Continuity means Minnesota Duluth only brings in five freshmen - four forwards and goalie Ryan Fanti. Of the group, Luke Loheit helped lead Minnetonka to a Class AA championship. Quinn Olson was selected by Boston in the third round of the 2019 NHL Draft. Reuniting with juniors teammate Tanner Laderroute, Olson was sixth in the AJHL in points last season.
A third national championship banner in Amsoil Arena's nine years goes up October 11th against UMass Lowell. Minnesota Duluth also faces Minnesota State, travels to Wisconsin for the first time since its final WCHA games and its nearly annual home-and-home series with Minnesota.
Closing Thoughts: Let's end this series the only I know how: By referencing someone or something. In this case, that someone is Ric Flair. If he went to Minnesota and St. Cloud State has his wooooo, it's appropriate right now for Minnesota Duluth to be the ones to use one of his catchphrases. To beat the Bulldogs, teams either had to be the best or make the most of very few chances. Hunter Shepard was pulled once all year and it came the opening weekend thanks to a period where the Gophers scored twice on three total shot attempts. One of the few missteps came off the ice.
This series has tried to look at what teams can learn from their past to put towards the future, in addition to what teams can learn from others. There are plenty of lessons other teams can learn from the two-time defending champions, who in a way are defining how to succeed in college hockey.
UMD has been winning with both high-end players and depth. The Bulldogs teams have been full of underclassmen yet its upperclassmen leadership play a major role and leads by example. The Bulldogs finished tenth in goals per game yet its leading scorer was 65th nationally.
A puck-moving defense happy to counter and lead the nation's top Corsi also contains a goaltender who put up a .920%+ save percentage. (In a growing international sport, last year's team was made up of 17 Minnesotans from the Iron Range, North Shore and Twin Cities if that matters to you.) He's coming back for his senior year too. The defensive play matches the offense and special teams. UMD ends up in the top-15 of almost every major category.
Several schools can claim to have one or two of these. Very few pertain the well-roundedness of a team that brings much of its core back from the past two seasons (along with Sandelin). Besides the defense, where Scott Perunovich is healthy, Nick Swaney and Justin Richards are another year older, the Cates brothers and Laderroute are now sophomores.
Mostly, it's why the second title was more impressive as the Bulldogs continue to succeed when the pressure is on. It's more difficult to showcase two weeks into five successful months - look at the number of 2018 NCAA Tournament teams who had high expectations yet were profiled in July/August. To accomplish both when being hunted by all 59 teams, no matter how exciting or boring it may be, is a feat.
Until proven otherwise, to be the man, teams will need to beat Minnesota Duluth.
Recent 60 Days. 60 Teams. 600 Words (or Less) Features
Massachusetts
Denver
Providence
Quinnipiac
Links To All 60 Teams
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Thursday, September 26, 2019
60 Days. 60 Teams. 600 Words (or Less): Massachusetts
University of Massachusetts
2018-19 Record: 31-10-0 (18-6-0, 1st in Hockey East)
Head Coach: Greg Carvel, 4th Year
Top returning scorers: Mitchell Chafee (18G-24A) and John Leonard (16G-24A)
Top returning goaltenders: Matt Murray (Jr.) and Filip Lindberg (So.)
We've spent a lot of time in this series discussing teams being the next UMass. Now it's time to discuss where the Minutemen go next.
To begin, looking ahead to better days won't work anymore.
Greg Carvel's team at one point was the flagship for failure, losing 22 of the final 23 games during his first season. (Even in victory, the Minutemen were heavily outshot and outplayed). After the lone win, he said a player (Brett Boeing) in his first game with the team was the best player on the ice. It would get better in the future with the recruiting classes on the horizon.
Turns out that might have been the understatement of the century. Taking away the ultimate program-changer in Cale Makar, Carvel's NewMass recruiting classes lit a new fire in the Minutemen. UMass had the nation's top power-play (28.5%) and was among the nation's top-7 in team offense and defense. Nine of the top 11 scorers plus both goalies on the team that reached the national championship game were underclassmen. Seven of those players return.
What's New: To the surprise of no one, the program-changer is now helping change Colorado's fortunes. Makar, the first top-10 pick to spend his second season after being drafted in college hockey since James van Riemsdyk, spent a four-day stretch winning the Hobey Baker Award, playing in the national championship game and scoring a Stanley Cup playoff goal. Fellow sophomore D Mario Ferraro also departed, signing with San Jose.
Speaking to the excellence of Massachusetts' season, not one, but two UMass players were drafted in their second year of eligibility. After being the one to prove Denver wrong, Marc Del Gaizo went to Nashville in the fourth round. Filip Lindberg's play down the stretch helped make him Paul Fenton's final pick as Minnesota GM.
Carvel brings in nine freshmen - five forwards, three defenders, and goalie Alex Camarre. D Zac Jones was a third-round draft pick by the New York Rangers.
Closing Thoughts: It's not exactly a bad thing to be unsure where UMass goes from here. Carvel's program is in uncharted waters.
A player like Makar comes around college hockey once or twice a decade. He makes players around him better. Makar's effect on the Minutemen last season and the game when he's on the ice cannot be understated. Yet the fact remains Massachusetts' turnaround wasn't the work of one player. Success breeds success. That was the case with a team led by underclassmen where there's enough talent left to retool special teams and defense, showing UMass is not a one-year wonder.
Massachusetts keeps an All-American in Mitchell Chafee. Two solid options remain in goal between Lindberg and Matt Murray (no, not that one although he did go to Pittsburgh's development camp). Del Gaizo and Ty Farmer, while both lose their D partner, both look capable of building upon successful freshmen seasons.
Even before a national runner-up finish, NewMass shares little with the Zoo Mass era. Teams may not need to fear the triangle, but for a team picked to finish sixth in Hockey East, there is a foundation to build upon the latest era for the flagship.
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Wednesday, September 25, 2019
Top 10 Questions For Gopher Women's Hockey Entering 2019-20
The defending WCHA regular-season champions find themselves nearing a changing of the guard. After a dynasty run of four national championships in five seasons, Minnesota has come up short each of the last three NCAA Tournaments.
Among the active players, only redshirt senior Sarah Potomak, who as a rookie scored the opening goal against BC in the 2016 national championship game, knows how it feels to win one.
While winning a national championship is far from the only goal Minnesota strives for each season, the Gophers expect - both internally and by fans externally - to annually contend for the title. Minnesota came close in March, finishing second after rival Wisconsin shut out the Gophers 2-0 in the 2019 national championship game.
There remains much to like about this season’s team, however, for the first time in a while, Minnesota does not have bragging rights over the team on the other side of the St. Croix. the clear second team in both the WCHA and nationally.
Can the Gophers change that? Before the start of the season, here are 10 more questions that will be answered in Minnesota’s quest for an eighth natty title.
60 Days. 60 Teams. 600 Words (or Less): Denver
University of Denver
2018-19 Record: 24-12-5 (11-10-3, 4th in NCHC)
Head Coach: David Carle, 2nd Year
Top returning scorers: Liam Finlay (16G-20A) and Emilio Pettersen (6G-24A)
Top returning goaltender: Devin Cooley (Jr.)
Something tells me Denver, despite coached by a millennial, won't take solace in the participation trophy of an unexpected Frozen Four appearance.
Well, unexpected to those outside the team. The Pioneers went from the hunted to hunting, losing five players early (including the original 2018-19 captain, Logan O'Connor, in late July) and head coach to the NHL, putting up a sign and mantra that read "prove them wrong." Second captain Colin Staub expected to contend in September. They did in April.
With 29-year-old David Carle at the helm, Denver both made and advanced to the Frozen Four. It's not easy taking a team with 19 underclassmen, creating chemistry as a group after losing 42% of your goals early. Presumed DU starter, freshman goalie Filip Larsson, was injured until Thanksgiving. Presumed backup Devin Cooley filled in marvelously as both goalies in the platoon finished with a save percentage above .930%. Larsson shut out both Ohio State and AIC in the West Regional.
Look at those millennials, killing the common thought and expectations industry.
What's New: That Twitter feud with UMass over adding "Amherst" going up a new level. Besides the off-ice brouhaha, the two teams play a Frozen Four rematch of their on-ice feud January 3-4 in Denver. The Pioneers also travel up to Alaska, which will now definitely happen.
Cooley will be the presumed starter, as Larsson signed with Detroit. He'll be joined by another Swede, Magnus Chroma, a 2018 Tampa draft pick and one of six 2019-20 freshmen. Among the group is forward Bobby Brink, whose offensive arsenal contains the creative skillset to be the next big-time Pioneer.
Closing Thoughts: A common theme has teams wanting to be the UMass. There's also a group of teams, however, happy to be the next Denver. (Several others, such as Minnesota's 2014 run to the national championship after losing five players early, share several similar characteristics, but DU is the latest.) Yesterday's profile, Providence, is certainly one.
A team that lost nearly half a goal per game in scoring from 2017-18 to 2018-19 made up for it by keeping its top-ten defense and getting its best goaltending at the right time. While Jarid Lukosevicius' 19 goals graduates, last season's underclassmen are another year older. Emilio Petterson and Cole Guttman step up as sophomores. Liam Finlay's 16 goals return.
So, where does Denver go from "proved them wrong?" Even before Ian Mitchell decided to return for his junior season - a major coup for DU's blue line - it's tougher to sell yourself when not having a chip on your shoulder. No one's doubting Denver or leaving them out of their preseason top 16 (Note: DU was 9th/11th in the two preseason polls). As much as the team may want otherwise, the Pioneers are back to being the hunted, not the hunters.
As Carle put it to me, it may be a new office and chair. This year, however, everything else is not quite the same. There's a difference between being the team wanting to prove them wrong being the one who did. Luckily for Carle and company, the team being hunted once more remains a tough one to catch. Sorry, lazy millennial trope.
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Tuesday, September 24, 2019
60 Days. 60 Teams. 600 Words (or Less): Providence College
Providence College
2018-19 Record: 24-12-6 (14-7-3, T-2nd in Hockey East)
Head Coach: Nate Leaman, 9th Year
Top returning scorer: Jack Dugan (10G-29A)
Top returning goaltender: Gabe Mollot-Hill (Jr.)
It's okay if you're not entirely familiar with this version of Providence College. The "what's new" section could just say "almost everything."
Nate Leaman sticks around (although he did interview with the Ottawa Senators). The system remains the same. Providence returns three of the eight players who scored 20 points or more plus the majority of its blue line, but the combinations and leadership will be different than the team who reached the 2019 Frozen Four.
The Friars had four early departures for the pros on top of its seniors. All-American Josh Wilkins signed with Nashville as an undrafted free agent after a breakout junior season. Brandon Duhaime (Minnesota), Kasper Bjorkqvist (Pittsburgh) and Jacob Bryson (Buffalo) signed with the NHL teams who drafted them.
Three-year starting goalie Hayden Hawkey graduated, leaving a hole in goal. Even Jay O'Brien, Philadelphia's 2018 first-round pick, transferred to Boston University after an injury-plagued freshman season.
What's New: Almost everything.
What Else I Missed: More departures. Associate head coach Kris Mayotte, one of the key people behind PC's recruiting success, left to join Mel Pearson's staff at Michigan. He's replaced by Joel Beal, who originally joined Bentley's staff this summer.
To help replace Hawkey, former Harvard goaltender Michael Lackey grad transfers to Providence. In his one year starting full-time, Lackey had a .914% save percentage. Injuries cost him most of his final month, but he returned for the ECAC and NCAA Tournaments.
Another option is incoming freshman Jake Kucharski. The 2018 7th round draft pick by Carolina has battled injuries in recent seasons, coming off a year where he played nine total games. He's one of 12 Providence freshmen for 2019-20. It's a group that has three Sioux City alums (D Luke Johnson and forwards Albin Nilsson and Parker Ford, who attended the US World Junior Summer Showcase) and three NHL draft picks (F Patrick Moniyhan, D Max Crozier and Kucharski) among the eight forwards, three defenders and goalie.
Closing Thoughts: Yes, Providence took advantage of playing in its hometown. Yes, the Friars made the Frozen Four as a No. 4 seed for the second time in five NCAA Tournaments.
Yes, the situation was nice but Nate Leaman can be a constant threat, coaching a well-rounded team with elite puck possession and defense. It's a team that even in losses knew they could play with anyone. The only team with a bigger Corsi close was UMD, who had similar team offense and defense stats. On average, PC outshot teams by nearly 10 shots per game.
Not throwing out the baby with the bathwater, Leaman's success comes with putting a group together that can play the style he wants. Jack Dugan for a good portion of the season was the best rookie in Hockey East. Lackey makes for a solid one-year stopgap.
With 19 underclassmen, Providence features a new group that has its work cut out to extend the Friars' streak of NCAA Tournament appearances to seven. (Only tomorrow's profile, Denver, has a longer active NCAA streak.) It's a challenge, but one with a talented group and the familiar face of a head coach that has made the most out of situations - both good and bad - during his PC tenure.
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Monday, September 23, 2019
60 Days. 60 Teams. 600 Words (or Less): Quinnipiac
Quinnipiac
2018-19 Record: 26-10-2 (14-6-2, T-1st in ECAC)
Head Coach: Rand Pecknold, 26th Year
Top returning scorer: Odeen Tufto (15G-27A)
Top returning goaltender: Keith Petruzzelli (Jr.)
Since discovering the nickname of Quinnipiac's home Hamden, CT is the "Land of the Sleeping Giant," I've unsuccessfully tried to get the factoid in stories. But this is my series. So, for better or worse, it's staying.
In the "Land of the Sleeping Giant," Quinnipiac has awoken once more.
The Bobcats returned to the NCAA Tournament after a two-year absence, winning at least a share of the ECAC title for the fourth time in seven seasons. Picked to finish eighth, Quinnipiac came within a game of advancing to its third Frozen Four of the 2010s. Andrew Shortridge had a season for the ages, finishing with an NCAA-leading .940% save percentage and 1.51 GAA. Chase Priskie led all defenders in goals (17). QU survived a season-ending injury to Brandon Fortunato.
None return. Priskie and Fortunato graduate. Shortridge, after his junior year, signed as an undrafted free agent with San Jose. Defender Brogan Rafferty also departed early, signing with Vancouver.
What's New: Not new to this series but new to Quinnipiac, the Connecticut Ice Festival will be contested for the first time January 25-26.
The Bobcats travel to Tempe to rematch the team QU defeated in the NCAA Tournament, Arizona State. Non-conference also includes a home-and-home series against both Massachusetts and AIC. In one of the ECAC's matchups, Quinnipiac hosts Yale to end the regular season on February 29 (QU makes the long, 10-mile drive to New Haven earlier in the month).
Following a 12-man rookie class in 2018-19, Pecknold's team features 10 freshmen plus a redshirt. Among the BCHL-heavy group are Logan Britt, who won a Clark Cup with Sioux Falls (USHL), and Skyler Brind'amour, son of Carolina (and Priskie's new) head coach Ron.
Closing Thoughts: At one time Quinnipiac was a nice surprise. Now, after the past decade, the Bobcats are a team not surprised to be in the conversation as a program most likely to win its first NCAA title, even if QU isn't the first program to come to mind. (At least out West. I wonder if the same can be said for a western team in a similar position, like a St. Cloud State, out East.)
However, there has to be a twinge of "what if" for Quinnipiac's title hopes last season. In range for a No. 1 seed, the team was different after Fortunato's February injury, missing a key component.
As much as QU will miss its seniors and early departures - when playing without Fortunato and Priskie on defense, the Bobcats were swept by Brown - a reason for the team's success has to do with the young underclassmen stepping up. The entire top line features underclassmen. Wyatt Bonglavanni had 14 goals as a freshman. Odeen Tufto put up 40+ points for a second straight season. Keith Petruzzelli, entering his junior season, in 12 starts last season finished with a .904% save percentage. There's also incoming freshman Evan Fear.
Amidst low expectations, the sleeping giants can rise up and take home a Cleary Cup and more. In another year of losses and a young team, it might depend whether someone like Peter DiLiberatore or one of the freshmen D can join Karlis Cukste and keep the blue line a team strength.
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Friday, September 20, 2019
60 Days. 60 Teams. 600 Words (or Less): Cornell
Cornell
2018-19 Record: 21-11-4 (13-5-4, T-1st in ECAC)
Head Coach: Mike Schafer, 25th Year
Top returning scorer: Morgan Barron (15G-19A)
Top returning goaltenders: Matthew Galajda (Jr.) and Austin McGrath (Jr.)
What's a bigger question mark than one goaltender returning after an injury ended his outstanding season? How about two goaltenders in the same situation.
That's the blessing and cursed predicament Cornell finds itself in 2019-20. Starter Matthew Galajda missed the 2019 NCAA Tournament due to an injury. Backup Austin McGrath, already scheduled to undergo surgery at the end of the season, came in and helped the Big Red defeat Northeastern before losing to Providence.
Both return, as do 7 of Cornell's top 10 scorers. The Big Red once again aims to be a beacon of defense, a year after tying with Quinnipiac for both the ECAC regular-season title and allowing the fewest goals (73) all season nationally. (Up from an insanely-low 52 in 2017-18.) To do so will require replacing half the blue line and getting back a healthy 2017-18 first-team All-American in Galajda (.939 and .921 save percentages his first two years).
What's New: A video scoreboard at Lynah Rink.
Fans will be able to see replays and all the modern amenities that come with video. No longer will newspapers be forced to be the only source of media during introductions. (Kidding. Seriously, please keep buying newspapers! Reading is important!)Board is coming along. Not many left to install. pic.twitter.com/MLB4sMuhAj— Cornell Video (@CornellVideo) August 13, 2019
Some simple graphical pieces on the boards just for now. Layout work for the season soon. pic.twitter.com/LAF4nKajiz— Cornell Video (@CornellVideo) August 28, 2019
Cornell's 2019-20 roster features nine first-year players. Forward Matt Stienburg, a 2019 third-round pick by the Colorado Avalanche, is the highest Big Red draft pick since Riley Nash after 59 points (19G-40A) in 57 games for Youngstown (USHL). Jack Malone, meanwhile, was selected in the sixth round by Vancouver. Other incoming players among the five forwards and four defenders include Lakeville native Sam Malinski and Schafer's fourth set of twins.
This season sees Cornell traveling to New York and next to New York, New York with November's Red Hot Hockey versus Boston University at MSG and January's Fortress Invitational in Las Vegas. The Big Red also head to East Lansing to take on a Michigan State team who swept CU last October.
Closing Thoughts: Of the teams who came within a game of the 2019 Frozen Four, Cornell could consider itself both the most disappointed and happy. 2017-18 was a nice surprise. The expectations were next season was the year built for a run. Instead, finishing 2018-19 with injuries throughout the lineup is a reminder that nothing is given or goes the way it should on paper. Making Frozen Fours is a difficult task where things need to go right at the right time of year.
It's a lesson most teams in this area of the series know all too well.
A healthy Galadja gives the Big Red a brick wall in net while young two-way blueliners find their footing (and if not, a healthy McGrath isn't a bad option). Travis Mitchell led all Omaha defenders in points. All except Malinksi are 6'3, nearly 200 lbs. Up front, Morgan Barron and Cam Donaldson returning along with incoming players like Stienburg and Malone add another element.
Cornell should be happy with its run, which looks to continue with a chance for a third straight ECAC title. Schafer's had the first stretch of three straight NCAA Tournaments since Ned Harkness coached. And yet there's always the curse of wanting more.
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Thursday, September 19, 2019
60 Days. 60 Teams. 600 Words (or Less): Notre Dame
Notre Dame
2018-19 Record: 23-14-3 (11-11-2, 2nd in Big Ten)
Head Coach: Jeff Jackson, 15th Year
Top returning scorer: Cal Burke (12G-18A)
Top returning goaltender: Cale Morris (Sr.)
Only Cale Morris can make a .930% save percentage seem like an off-year.
The Fighting Irish goaltender regressed slightly to the mean after his Mike Richter Award-winning 2017-18 season (AKA the one where it became apparent no goaltender will ever win the Hobey). So did Notre Dame, going from the national championship game to losing in the NCAA regional championship.
If it's difficult to go two steps in college football circles without discussing Notre Dame, you almost need to be in South Bend or an undersized walk-on football player to hear the Fighting Irish's recent run of success discussed. Back-to-back Frozen Fours were followed up by Notre Dame winning its second straight Big Ten conference tournament title.
However, Jeff Jackson's biggest under-the-radar win would be getting back Morris for his senior season. He's not alone. Cam Morrison also returns instead of signing with Colorado.
What's New: A home-and-home series with Boston College. Really.
Notre Dame and Boston College plan on attending each other's rinks on the weekend of December 6-8. That despite being separated by four states and 900 miles. It makes the home-and-home series with Bowling Green the week before seem almost like a trip down I-80 to grab some sugar and Waffle House. The Fighting Irish also play a home-and-home series with Western Michigan, but not Michigan as has been the case in recent years.
Incoming freshman forward Trevor Janicke was selected by the Vancouver Canucks in the fifth round of June's NHL Draft. The Maple Grove native is one of two first-year Minnesotans on the Notre Dame roster (Medina's Ryan Bischel), continuing the state's pipeline straight out to Compton Family Ice Arena. Among the eight first-year players are five forwards, two D and Bischel in goal.
Besides several seniors like Dylan Malmquist finally graduating, the Fighting Irish suffered one early departure. Defender Andrew Peeke signed with Columbus following his junior season.
Closing Thoughts: At this point, the rest of the Big Ten knows what to expect from Notre Dame. It'd be kind to say the Fighting Irish is not the most flashy team, but that's exactly how the gold-helmeted group finds success. The team plays a suffocating system and one that keeps shutting down an offensive-friendly conference. (Other than the 9-1 loss at Penn State.) It's no surprise to see Jeff Jackson's team lead the conference in goals against per game (2.27) or have the second-best PK (81.9%).
Notre Dame loses its top defensive pair in Bobby Nardella and Peeke, however, everyone else on the blue line comes back. For all the defensive talk, I'm intrigued whether another underclassman takes off like Colin Thiessen and Michael Graham did the past two seasons. Graham, who led all Big Ten freshmen in goals, was a force in the second half with 11 of his 12 goals happening after mid-January.
Adding them, along with Morrison and Cal Burke to the returning goaltender and defensive core quietly keeps Notre Dame in the Big Ten and national conversation. That's the way to expect a team backed by Morris. Nothing gets past the now-senior.
As another school mentioned frequently, #HockeyNeedsMoreCale. Notre Dame agrees wholeheartedly and, for for a final year, happily (re)takes up the mantle.
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Wednesday, September 18, 2019
60 Days. 60 Teams. 600 Words (or Less): American International College
American International College
2018-19 Record: 23-17-1 (18-9-1, 1st in Atlantic Hockey)
Head Coach: Eric Lang, 4th Year
Top returning scorer: Blake Christensen (16G-31A)
Top returning goaltender: Zackarias Skog (Sr.)
While this series distills where all 60 D1 men's hockey programs currently are in approximately 600 words, here's one tweet summing up the change in American International College.
I am sitting in the airport waiting for my flight. Seeing my AIC Hockey backpack a 10 year old from Arizona starts up a conversation about @AIC_Hockey No way that was happening 5 years ago.— Chris Porter (@Ports_Financial) June 26, 2019
My work here is done. That was easy.
Hold on...I'm being told it's not. Onward...
Before last season, AIC never finished above .500 at the Division 1 level. Now the team has both Atlantic Hockey regular-season and conference tournament titles.
Before, the Yellow Jackets were that kid in the corner of the class who never spoke to anyone, leaving us wondering how one was both American and International, or if there's any relation to that school who once played in the Great West Conference. Now, AIC has made noise, upsetting the No. 1 overall seed in the NCAA Tournament and exploding on the scene in 2019 like they're the White Claw of college hockey.
It makes for a story people want to discuss, which speaks well for both the program and college hockey. With the vast majority of a team that scored the most goals in Atlantic Hockey returning, along with its goaltender, AIC has the talent for an encore.
What's New: Expectations and Eric Lang coaching. Okay, the second one is not new, but Lang remaining at AIC was not a given. St. Lawrence made an unsuccessful bid to get the College Hockey News Coach of the Year, who signed an extension with the Yellow Jackets.
Lang sticking around is big for a team now facing expectations for the first time in its D1 era. The best season before 2018-19 saw AIC winning 15 games...in 2017-18. The team was picked to finish fifth in Atlantic Hockey last year. That's not going to happen this time around. Teams will be aiming to avoid the Yellow Jackets' sting.
After going 0-6 in non-conference, American International face three NCAA Tournament teams in Quinnipiac, Massachusetts, and Providence. Both the Bobcats and Friars visit MassMutual Center while the Minutemen and Yellow Jackets play for the rights to Western Massachusetts' best college hockey story.
Closing Thoughts: Before further discussing AIC's follow-up, it should be pointed out the team was 9-11-1 in mid-January.
Even there, without titles and wins, there was growth. Lang is building a program that can/will recruit from anywhere. 15 Europeans dot the roster. (Sorry UConn trendsetters.) That out-of-the-box thinking has other programs wanting to be the next AIC.
For the current version, no team loses fewer goals than the Yellow Jackets. Blake Christensen comes back off a 47 point season, as does his line with 18-goal scorer Tobias Fladeby and Hugo Reinhardt, who scored the OT winner to send AIC to the NCAAs. (Both players scoring against SCSU also return.) Goaltender Zackarias Skog improved to a .915 save percentage over his final 20 games.
College hockey is discussing AIC. As much as it is for winning the Atlantic Hockey tournament and an NCAA game, there is substance behind the Yellow Jacket lifestyle being in the zeitgeist. No AHA team since Air Force in 2011-12 won both the regular season and conference tournament.
Now the discussion turns to how the team responds; whether it's a one-year fad or the start of a long success story.
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