Michigan Loses B1G Title on Senior Night
With two games remaining in the Regular season, Michigan stood in a position to win the B1G regular season title and receive a first round bye. The wolverines (20-14) took care of business at Munn Ice Arena in dramatic fashion on Friday, winning 5-3. It was Zach Nagelvoort in nets for Michigan, his first start since Feb. 7th at the Hockey City Classic. Nagelvoort looked to be a little rusty and was fighting the puck in the early going, finishing the game with 24 saves.
With a chance to win the B1G outright at home on Senior night, the Wolverines were stymied by Jake Hildebrand who made a ridiculous save late in the 3rd period to secure the victory for the Spartans. With the loss, the Wolverines finish in 3rd place and will be forced to win 3 games to make the NCAA tournament. Up next for the Wolverines will be the Wisconsin Badgers, who have had a disappointing season all year. Although nothing is given in post-season play, the Wolverines do have 4 victories over the Badgers this season. Looking beyond the first game, the maize and blue will draw Michigan State, and presumably the Minnesota Gophers if they make it that far.
Michigan will square off against the Badgers on Thursday night, at 7pm EST.
Sunday, March 15, 2015
Tuesday, March 10, 2015
To The Brink
Michigan Swept by Penn State to Push Playoff Hopes to the Brink
As stated last week, Michigan would have likely had to have swept last weekend (and the MSU series) to receive an at-large bid to the NCAA tournament. The sweep at Hockey Valley all but surely knocks the Maize and Blue out of the at-large bid, meaning the only way to extend the season for the first time in 3 seasons will be to win the B1G tournament.
Both games were not televised last week, so I can't comment too much on what went wrong for the Wolverines, but from my understanding, it was pretty much everything. Defense was apparently atrocious Friday night, and offense was non-existent with exception to JT Compher who is heating up down the stretch. Good for him, but as a team, they're still a little late to the party...again.
What does it all mean?
At this point, I don't even know. Michigan went 1-3 against Penn State this year, making them an abysmal 3-6 against the Nittany Lions in B1G play. That's a tough pill to swallow. I think the only way Michigan makes the big dance this year is to win the B1G tournament, something that I don't have a lot of confidence they can do. I've yet to explore the scenario of them having to play a play-in game before they reach the semis (I doubt the extra game would help them in any fashion, considering they'd have to lose to MSU as well).
What's the likelihood of Michigan making the tournament? Not good. Since we've missed the last two years, I've come down from the "THE STREAK WILL NEVER END" mentality, and I've become more of a realist. The truth is, our defense isn't good enough to carry us to the tournament. We're too inconsistent and it's hurt us all year. Another bitter truth, this team doesn't deserve to go to the tournament. There, I said it. They've squandered every lead they've had, they didn't run away with the B1G title like they should have, they CANNOT win on the road. This team is bad outside of the friendly confines of Yost. I wish like hell they could make it, I really do. Everyone knows that once you make the tourney, anything can happen (Holy Cross, Air Force, RIT, etc.). The reality is, this team will not make the tournament. 97% certainty in that statement. I hope they can prove me wrong, but this could have catastrophic effects on what happens this off season.
As always, Go Blue.
Sunday, March 1, 2015
Taking Care of Business
Michigan Sweeps Wisconsin to Keep At-Large Bid Alive
A much needed sweep for Michigan this weekend as they took two games from a pesky Wisconsin Badgers squad. Friday night's 3-0 win was a defensive battle between both squads, with Michigan netting two power play goals and one empty netter from JT Compher. The shutout was the first for Junior goaltender Steve Racine, who turned away all 22 badger shots. Zach Hyman opened the scoring in the second period with a PPG that deflected off a Wisconsin defenseman. Zach Werenski added a late PPG that just snuck under the Joel Rumpel's pad.
Saturday night was a tighter game, a bit more offensive as Michigan's JT Compher leading the charge for Michigan, recording his first career hat trick. Justin Selman scored two more to help lead the Wolverines, as Steve Racine had 26 saves in the win.
It was exactly what the Wolverines needed, as they now fall into the #15 spot in the latest pairwise rankings. Michigan now stands alone atop the B1G standings once again, with Minnesota splitting with Michigan State. Things won't get any easier from here, though. Michigan heads to Penn State next weekend, and will finish the season with a home-and-home with MSU. Michigan will still need 4 wins secure an at large bid, and one loss could potentially knock Michigan out of first place, and out of the post season for the third consecutive year.
A much needed sweep for Michigan this weekend as they took two games from a pesky Wisconsin Badgers squad. Friday night's 3-0 win was a defensive battle between both squads, with Michigan netting two power play goals and one empty netter from JT Compher. The shutout was the first for Junior goaltender Steve Racine, who turned away all 22 badger shots. Zach Hyman opened the scoring in the second period with a PPG that deflected off a Wisconsin defenseman. Zach Werenski added a late PPG that just snuck under the Joel Rumpel's pad.
Saturday night was a tighter game, a bit more offensive as Michigan's JT Compher leading the charge for Michigan, recording his first career hat trick. Justin Selman scored two more to help lead the Wolverines, as Steve Racine had 26 saves in the win.
It was exactly what the Wolverines needed, as they now fall into the #15 spot in the latest pairwise rankings. Michigan now stands alone atop the B1G standings once again, with Minnesota splitting with Michigan State. Things won't get any easier from here, though. Michigan heads to Penn State next weekend, and will finish the season with a home-and-home with MSU. Michigan will still need 4 wins secure an at large bid, and one loss could potentially knock Michigan out of first place, and out of the post season for the third consecutive year.
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Michigan Faces Familiar Situation
For the third season in a row, Michigan finds itself with it's back against the wall trying to claw it's way back into the NCAA tournament. Although this has been a more successful campaign in 2014-2015, the Wolverines find themselves as a bubble team as the regular season comes to an end. Let's take a look back at what's led Michigan to this point, what the implications are if they make/miss the cut, and what that could mean for the program.
Ninja edit: I've also had some time free up, so I'm planning on updating this blog more frequently, hopefully every Sunday night I'll post. We'll see how good I do.
December to Now
So why is Michigan in this position? Great question, everyone (collectively, all at once). Michigan is currently sitting at #19 in the Pairwise ranking thanks to some fairly inconsistent play, and abysmal defensive coverage. As one of the nation's highest scoring offenses, the trade off with an average-below average defense has been apparent. They've been a team all year that proves they can score goals (and score in a hurry), but everyone knows, defense wins championships. Even in games where they've dismantled an opponent's defense they've still been too nonchalant in the defensive zone, resulting in a Goals Against Average of 3.00/gm. Woof. When your offense has to score at least 4 goals a game, you know you're in for a rough game. I've been lucky enough to follow this team more than any other team in recent years, and I can honestly say that the defensive zone breakdowns have been an Achilles heel for us all season long. Getting caught on long shifts appears to be a recurring theme, as does half-assed chips up the halfwall. At the UM-Minn game on 2/14, I think I lost count of the number of times UM players were standing/puck watching in the D-Zone. It honestly looked like they were running a zone of some sorts, allowing Minnesota to cash in on what looked to be a powerplay.
Inconsistent Defense leads to inconsistent goaltending. While I personally feel Steve Racine gives Michigan a better chance night-in and night-out, Naglevoort has proven that he too, can provide the team with a defensive backbone. He's also proven that he's no more invulnerable when the team plays poorly. Goaltending, like many things, comes down to consistency. Becoming comfortable, tracking pucks, challenging the play, being in control of the game...these are all things that become second nature to goaltenders when they're playing with confidence. This team, defensively, reminds me of the 2006 team. Splitting between goalies, running wild in the defensive zone, having to get into track meets to beat teams...I'm not liking the trend I'm seeing, but I'm still hopeful the D-zone gets cleaned up.
Michigan is 9-5 in B1G play through 2/22, which puts them in a tie with the Gophers. Looking back on last weekend, the Friday loss to Ohio is undeniably huge. Instead of having a 3 pt lead, and being able to squander a game the rest of the way, Michigan is now backed into a "must win" situation. If a playoff mood isn't already in full effect at Yost Ice Arena, it definitely will be now. We'll get to the logistics in a second, but the race for the B1G isn't just heating up anymore, it's engulfed in flames. Minnesota, Michigan, Penn State, and MSU are all fighting for the top spot, and almost all teams seemingly control their destiny, which is scary. Real scary. Michigan has been trending down, having given up their lead in the B1G standings. They're 2-4 in their last 6 games, all against B1G opponents. The ship needs to get "rightened", and rightened in a hurry! Here's why...
Let's Get Real!
So, in true Red Berenson fashion, let's bring the real talk. What does it mean if Michigan loses even a single game the rest of the way? What does it mean if they miss the tourney this year? What do they need to do to get there? Let's break it down week by week.
Last week's loss to OSU hurts, big time. Losing points to a cellar dweller simply can't happen at this point in the season. A clear indication that the team isn't playing as well as it should be. Looking a head to this week, a home series vs. Wisconsin, Michigan HAS to take care of business. Notice how I emphasized "has", well that's because a loss to Wisconsin virtually knocks them out of the playoff picture. While one loss doesn't technically push them over the bubble, in order to be safe, they need to sweep this weekend. A loss at home to an awful Wisconsin team would hurt worse than a loss last week. If they lose one game this weekend, they'd have to win out the rest of the season, which (barring other team's results) would put Michigan at #15 in the pairwise, which still might not be enough to sneak in. Leave it at this, Michigan needs a sweep. Period.
The following week at Penn State scares the living BeJesus out of me. That team is dangerous. That team has our number. That team is much better than when we last saw them in November, an 8-1 victory at the friendly confines of Yost, Assuming Michigan sweeps Wisco, I think suffering one loss here is tolerable, but not acceptable. Again, look at it this way, if Michigan losses one game the rest of the way, that will land them around the #15 spot, again, making their chances of getting at at-large bid extremely difficult. Leave it at this, a sweep helps, DRAMATICALLY.
Last will be MSU, and for all extensive purposes, let's just say it's the same as PSU. Michigan needs to win out here, a loss again puts them around #15, two losses knocks them out. UM needs to sweep.
Q: What if Michigan wins every game from here on out?
Elementary, my dear Watson. If Michigan wins from here on out, it puts them in a much more comfortable spot. Again, pending other results, if solely Michigan were to win out today, that would leave them in the #10 spot of the Pariwise rankings. A safe spot, indeed, and I'd be willing to bet that the B1G #1 seed would likely go to them (unless Minnesota wins out as well). I'd be willing to bet $5 that if Michigan wins every game from here on out, they'll make the NCAAs regardless of how they do in the B1G tourney.
Q2: What if Michigan loses one game?
Questions are heating up now. If Michigan loses one game, they could still possibly find a seat at the table in the NCAAs, but it's very unlikely. I'd give it a 10% chance. I'm sure I could find something to work through all the scenarios, but let's just say it'd take a near miracle for Michigan to get an at-large bid with one more loss. One more loss to a B1G opponent could drop Michigan to 3rd place in the standings, there's obviously other factors at play here, but let's just say they could possibly end up as low as #3/4. That wouldn't be good at all. That first round bye in the B1G tournament is HUGE (although I personally don't feel it's the end of the world if we don't get it).
Q3: What happens if Michigan loses 2 games?
Back to basics here...if Michigan loses 2 games, the at-large bid is essentially gone, and the only route to get to the NCAAs is by winning the B1G playoffs. I don't think I need to remind you how that worked out for us last year...
Q4: What happens if Michigan makes the Tourney, where do they go and who should they fear?
If Blue makes it to the tourney, they'll probably pull a 3-4 seed, which doesn't necessarily match up nicely for first round opponents. There's still too much in play to determine what exactly could/would happen. I firmly believe the Midwest regional (in South Bend) would be the best destination for Michigan to escape and make a FF appearance. Assuming Minnesota State-Mankato is the #1 seed there, I still think Michigan has the best chance of knocking them off. Manakto is a very tested and veteran team, and an upset would be difficult, but still possible. The other three regions wouldn't be good for Michigan, however, crazier things have happened.
Q5: What if Michigan doesn't make the Tourney?
No bueno. In fact, I'd be willing to bet that if Michigan doesn't make the tournament this year, this season would be the last coached by Red Berenson. Now now, I know what you're thinking, Red still has one more year under contract, but he's always been a firm believer that the program is more important than him and if it's not trending the right direction, he'd have no problem stepping aside. I for one, would love to see Red for one more year, but you never know. Also, Michigan missing the tourney could very well lead to some early departures. I don't really see a scenario where Dylan Larkin stays after this year, but missing the tourney would most likely reaffirm that. They kid has so much potential, it's hard to see him in a sweater that has a block M on it next year. Missing the tourney could lead to other departures as well. Werenski would be draft eligible, and although I do think one more year could benefit the young blue-liner, I wouldn't be surprised if he bolted as well. Motte, Compher, Copp, Nieves and Kile are all other players who might toy with the idea of leaving. I don't expect all of them to, but if I had to guess, those would be the 7 players who could potentially make the jump to pro hockey. I'd obviously love to see everyone back, but pro hockey certainly has it's draws.
Another negative, if Michigan misses the tournament for a third consecutive year, it'll be the first time there's been a three year drought since 1987-1990, when Red was just starting to right the ship. Of course, after that, Michigan then went on a 22 year run without missing the playoffs, a feat that may not be accomplished for a long time.
Recap
In short, Michigan HAS to catch fire, and it starts this weekend. We need to start generating confidence and we need (need need need need need need need need need) to play better in the defensive zone. Racine is a gamer for sure, as shown in his freshman year when he nearly single-handedly carried Michigan to the CCHA title. None of the teams are too far out of Michigan's league, but a slip up will cost them the season.
Ninja edit: I've also had some time free up, so I'm planning on updating this blog more frequently, hopefully every Sunday night I'll post. We'll see how good I do.
Monday, December 8, 2014
B1G Season is Nigh
Since Michigan football made me into an alcoholic this year, I figure it's time to sober up and pay attention to what I love most...THE COACHING CAROUSEL (wait, that's not right)....MICHIGAN HOCKEY!
Yes ladies and gents, it's almost crunch time in the B1G hockey season, which means I get to rant about Michigan hockey for several paragraphs and pretend to know what I'm talking about. Let's take a look back on what's been happening this season thus far, and what the next couple of months will hold.
Early Disappointment
The title of this little section is "Early Disappointment", because duh, the beginning of the season was a disappointment! Talk about inconsistency (again!). The season started out on Oct.4th with a visit to Big Rapids against the Ferris State Bulldogs. And boy did it start on an awful note. 27 seconds in to the game, before I could even get a decent feed on my WCHA stream (which btw, what an awful experience that was. I hope they've improved the quality of their streams, but I'll never find out because I'm not going to shell out coin for such poor quality). Then about 30 seconds later, the Wolverines found themselves down 2 goals. The fresh season was already off to a rocky start, with Michigan trailing 3-0 after the opening period. It almost felt as if it was going to be another one of "those" years, that we Wolverine faithful have seen so few of in the past 20 years. We eventually battled back, dropping the opening game with a 4-3 final, but still, it was a tough way to start the year.
Following the Ferris loss, Michigan ran over the USA - NTDP, something a few other programs struggled to do, and also handled Wilfrid Laurier in a sloppy win. Then came the UNH series, an early season test that again showcased Michigan's inconsistencies. Dropping the first game 5-1 and then bouncing back for a 2-1 win on Saturday, it left many scratching their heads. The following weeks only left more questions around the Maize and Blue...an 8-4 drubbing of UMass-Lowell and a tight game against BU with some questionable calls, many, including myself thought we were snake bitten and not actually inconsistent! Fast forward past a sweep in Houghton, where Mel Pearson's team dismantled the big bad Wolverines, and a shaky weekend against AIC, in which Michigan found a way to simply get it done. There were still many questions to be answered. The top three lines were changing on a regular basis, the D-core was being switched up regularly as well, and the goaltending was less than desirable. I was fortunate enough to in attendance for the PSU series. Keep in mind, PSU had our number last year, and on Friday night, more disappointment. Things got off to a great fast start, exactly what Michigan wanted to do, control the tempo. They were buzzing from the get go and ended up striking first. Then allowed three unanswered goals in a 3 minute span, where the defense looked simply awful. The comeback effort fell a little short, and if it's one thing we learned from last year, it's that you can't not take any points on home ice. This league is competitive, believe it or not, and you need to win on your home ice. The following night was a completely different showing...nothing could go wrong for the Maize and Blue as they destroyed Penn State 8-1! Everything was clicking for them that game and you got a sense that things were starting to turn around. You could see the confidence boost, goal after goal that night...it was fun to watch.
The Turning Point
The following weekend was a character weekend for the team...a late come from behind win against RPI, followed by another onslaught of goals, a 6-0 win on Saturday. Last Friday Michigan trounced Ohio (heh), and are now scoring 4.07 Goals/game (2nd in the nation). The team looks completely different, from the start of the season, they have confidence now and need to continue the momentum in the coming weeks.
What Lies Ahead
Big Blue has one game slated for this weekend, a tough OOC match-up with Boston College, a team that is still struggling to find their identity as well. It's going to be a big weekend for multiple reasons. The first being, they've already proven they can score, and score often. Now they need to compete with the "big boys". Taking down a big time program like BC will further boost the teams confidence as they head into the GLI (a tournament in which they might be missing 5 players to the National Junior roster).
Following the BC game, the 50th GLI at the Joe! This will be a great test for Michigan as they face Michigan Tech for the third time this season, and as I mentioned earlier, they could be with out 5 impact players for the world junior tournament.
Starting off the new year at home against a talented Minnesota team. Taking one of those games will be vital if they want any chance at winning the regular season B1G championship. Either way, the next 5 games are going to be pivotal in what type of team Michigan wants to be moving forward.
Personnel
Michigan has plenty of talent to be a top 10 team this year. But without cohesive units, they're destined to struggle. Here's a quick glimpse at who I like this year and how I imagine them impacting the rest of the season.
- Dylan Larkin, FR - 2g, 13a - 15pts. Larkin hasn't been a big goal scorer this year, but his presence is definitely felt on the ice. He's got a knack for the puck and has great vision, there's no doubt he's high end talent, and is going to be critical to Michigan's success. Gee, wouldn't it be nice if we could keep him for another year (or two)?
- Zach Hyman, SR - 7g, 10a - 17pts. Hyman has been Mr. do-it-all this year. He's been fun to watch. Seems to be all over the ice and has quietly (IMO) amassed 17pts thus far. He'll need to keep the pedal to the floor if the Wolverines want to make it to the NCAA tournament.
- Tyler Motte, SO - 5g, 9a - 14pts. Motte has came up huge for the Maize and Blue this year. His unique combination of speed and skill have landed him on the top line and also garnered him an invite to the US national roster tryout. He's a goal scorer and needs to keep this pace if the Wolverines want to make a deep push into the playoffs this year.
- Andrew Copp, JR - 7g 6a - 13pts. Andrew is one of those guys that hardly gets out worked. He's a Zach Parise kind of captain, and leads by example. The Junior captain is an integral part of the offense, but more importantly, is a huge defensive help as well. A pure two-way player, and you know he's hungry to get back to the NCAA tourney.
- JT Compher,SO - 3g 8a - 11pts. It's been nice to see JT heat up again. He gained a lot of respect from the World Junior tournament last year and and a big impact in his freshman campaign. I hope to see more form JT in the coming weeks, but he's one of those guys that needs to bring his "A" game each night.
- Zach Werenski, FR - 3g 9a - 12pts. This kid is the real deal. And I do mean kid. the 17 year old has already made a huge impact on the blue line. He reminds me somewhat of Kris Letang with the puck, wheels and hands to match, he's going to be special. Again, lets hope we get to keep him for another year or two as he develops.
- Boo Nieves, JR - 4g 7a - 11pts. Boo has been coming on as of late, which is always a good sign. After a breakout freshman year, Boo went quit for most of last season. He's a big power forward with soft hands, which makes him especially fun to watch (See goal vs. PSU for example). He's defintely capable of scoring goals, and that's just what the Wolverines will be counting on him to do for the remainder of the year.
- Zach Nagelvoort, SO - 2.65 GAA, .908sv%. Will the real Zach Nagelvoort please stand up? Zach is one of the best goalies to come through the UofM. There's no denying that. But the team lives and dies with his backstopping. He's been coming on as of late, but the inconsistency in nets has been reflected with the team. When he's on, he's amazing, but when he's not, we're not. Here's to hoping he's settled in and won't be relied upon as heavily as he was last year down the stretch. If the D can get comfortable playing for him, we'll be okay. We can't expect him to carry the entire load this year, but there are going to be opportunities in every game where we'll need Zach to stand on his head...maybe not for the entire game, or period, but there are probably going to be a couple of stretches where we need Zach to play to the best of his abilities. There can't be any "turning it off", he has to be dialed in every game.
Well that's all I've got for now! Let's hope the second half is better than the first...and as always, GO BLUE!
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Di Giuseppe and Guptill Leave Michigan
Not too much of a surprise here, with both forwards leaving. Both DiGi and Guptill have had similar impacts since their Freshman campaigns 2 seasons ago. I'm a little disappointed DiGi left, I felt as if he was a bigger impact player and could have had a huge year next season. Guptill was expected, and however good he was was often overshadowed by other incidents/lack of effort. I can't imagine either of them actually contributing much to Carolina and Dallas, but they'll probably get a couple years in the AHL. Hopefully they prove me wrong.
Sunday, March 23, 2014
Another Disappointing Season Comes To An End
I was able to attend the Michigan vs. Penn State game on Thursday, thinking it was going to be one of the last times I'd be able to see them live all year. What I didn't expect was that it was the last time anyone would see them all season. The 2-1 2OT game on Thursday was one of the most disappointing things I've had to watch. From when I was younger until today, I can't think of any other time where I've been so disappointed. Not even last year, when we had to win to get into the NCAA tournament to keep our 22 year streak alive, have I been this disappointed. Penn State simply dominated UM in the first 2 periods of the game. We looked like we didn't even belong on the same sheet of ice as PSU, a team that is in it's second year of D-I competition.
The third period and majority of Overtime belonged to the Wolverines. It was almost as if they awakened (as they should have), and tried to salvage their season. The worst part about watching them play in the final 3 periods of the game was that I knew they could have been playing like that all game. It's hard to win games with 2 goals, and it's even harder to win with one. As I sat in my seat at the Xcel Energy Center, the Wolverines gave a stick salute to their fans, and I soon realized, that there is a high probability that we might not be able to reach the NCAA Tournament for the second straight year. I immediately went home, logged onto the Pariwise Predictor and tried to find every which way Michigan could make the Tournament. There were a lot of different ways we could sneak into the NCAAs, and even possibly nab the 14th seed. A lot would have had to happened, and as I sat around Saturday, I realized that none of those situations were panning out.
It was an interesting season, one that seemed to peak way too soon. It will be interesting to see who decides to leave early, and who decides to stick around to try to get Michigan back to it's national prominence.
The third period and majority of Overtime belonged to the Wolverines. It was almost as if they awakened (as they should have), and tried to salvage their season. The worst part about watching them play in the final 3 periods of the game was that I knew they could have been playing like that all game. It's hard to win games with 2 goals, and it's even harder to win with one. As I sat in my seat at the Xcel Energy Center, the Wolverines gave a stick salute to their fans, and I soon realized, that there is a high probability that we might not be able to reach the NCAA Tournament for the second straight year. I immediately went home, logged onto the Pariwise Predictor and tried to find every which way Michigan could make the Tournament. There were a lot of different ways we could sneak into the NCAAs, and even possibly nab the 14th seed. A lot would have had to happened, and as I sat around Saturday, I realized that none of those situations were panning out.
It was an interesting season, one that seemed to peak way too soon. It will be interesting to see who decides to leave early, and who decides to stick around to try to get Michigan back to it's national prominence.
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
That Time of Year
So it's apparent my blog has become a seasonal blog now, with me getting more and more anxious for playoffs, perhaps it's the only way I know how to relieve my anxiety. Now that the regular season is over, it might be fitting to look back, fire up the 'ole brain, and scribble something into a new post. Let's begin!
Season Review
What can I say about Michigan's season that makes me sound like I don't despise the Maize and Blue? I find the inconsistency to be the most troubling trend within the last couple of years, that has me somewhat thinking that Red leaving might not be a bad thing. I couple years ago I'd never find myself saying such nonsense, but it seems as if the players lack respect for the iconic head coach.
The season obviously got off on a good note. Beating BC and starting 10-2-1 was an early positive for Michigan, who seems to never really start strong. This team looked to be unbeatable in the early goings, but quickly lost steam. Then...more goaltending issues. Nagelvoort and Racine seemed to both hit a rough patch midway through the year, and we ended up losing to teams like OSU, MSU, and PSU. That's not acceptable at Michigan. I'd say the Defense was one of the worst defensive cores I've seen in recent years. Obviously losing Merrill and Trouba are gigantic losses, but the Freshman that came in gave me some hope. Early, they looked to be a stable group, but throughout the year their inexperience showed, and it was painful to watch them at times. I will say that they is a lot of potential here, and if we can avoid early departures, the next 2 years look VERY promising. Nolan De Jong is one of my favorite new players to watch. Not necessarily a big guy, but he's an incredibly gifted skater and can move the puck very well. Mike. Downing. I'm not sure how to feel about Mike Downing. Obviously he's a gifted player and certainly can make a difference, however, I saw too much negative in his game, especially in the Minnesota series in Minneapolis in Mid-Feb. He looked so inexperienced compared to Mac Bennett and the likings, I was amazed he was even dressed, yet alone starting. Follow his performance up with some awful penalties, and it would be very easy for me to dismiss Downing as a top D-guy. BUT, he IS a difference maker. At times he can be our best defenseman and he does have a pretty good sense for where to be on the ice. He has all the attributes to be a very good defenseman. On to the forwards, and where do I begin? Copp, Compher, Di Giuseppe, all stars in their own fashion. This group can be scary good when they want to be. One player that I'll focus on that I hope to continue to see more out of, and especially next year, is Alex Guptill. Guppy has been a favorite of mine since he stepped on campus two years ago. Him and DiGi were going to be the future. I was sure of it. Then we ran into this year, and although both players didn't have the years they wanted to last year, it appears that there was a larger affect on Guptill. His attitude this year has been awful, hence him probably being a "healthy" a couple of times. His attitude on the ice, towards officials, teammates, opposing players. He seems so negative, and I can't imagine it's helping his chances playing at the next level. He's been fine since being sat down, in fact he's been one of the best on the ice night in, and night out. I hope he can keep his focus for the remainder of this year, but more importantly, for next year as well. He truly is an incredible player, he just needs to hold himself to a higher standard.
Playoff Outlook
I'll be there Thursday when Michigan takes on Penn State at Xcel Energy Center. Let's hope we come ready to play. We've already proven that we can't let a team like PSU hang around. I've been looking at the scenarios and playing with USCHO.com 's pairwise predictor, and a win on Thursday puts us in a really good position for making the Tournament. Lose, and we still have a shot at getting in, but I wouldn't want to hope my way into a the field of 16. I really do believe they can make a push for the inaugural B1G Tournament crown, but it's going to take three of our best games all year. Plus, if we did end up winning the B1G title, most of the scenarios I've seen pushed us into a 2 seed. As if it really matters. I'm hoping for a 3 seed, but I guess we'll get dealt what we deserve.
Depending on how Thursday goes, I'll report back with a recap from the game, and a brief preview of the Wisconsin game (which I will unfortunately not be able to attend). Thanks for the read and as always, GO BLUE!
Season Review
What can I say about Michigan's season that makes me sound like I don't despise the Maize and Blue? I find the inconsistency to be the most troubling trend within the last couple of years, that has me somewhat thinking that Red leaving might not be a bad thing. I couple years ago I'd never find myself saying such nonsense, but it seems as if the players lack respect for the iconic head coach.
The season obviously got off on a good note. Beating BC and starting 10-2-1 was an early positive for Michigan, who seems to never really start strong. This team looked to be unbeatable in the early goings, but quickly lost steam. Then...more goaltending issues. Nagelvoort and Racine seemed to both hit a rough patch midway through the year, and we ended up losing to teams like OSU, MSU, and PSU. That's not acceptable at Michigan. I'd say the Defense was one of the worst defensive cores I've seen in recent years. Obviously losing Merrill and Trouba are gigantic losses, but the Freshman that came in gave me some hope. Early, they looked to be a stable group, but throughout the year their inexperience showed, and it was painful to watch them at times. I will say that they is a lot of potential here, and if we can avoid early departures, the next 2 years look VERY promising. Nolan De Jong is one of my favorite new players to watch. Not necessarily a big guy, but he's an incredibly gifted skater and can move the puck very well. Mike. Downing. I'm not sure how to feel about Mike Downing. Obviously he's a gifted player and certainly can make a difference, however, I saw too much negative in his game, especially in the Minnesota series in Minneapolis in Mid-Feb. He looked so inexperienced compared to Mac Bennett and the likings, I was amazed he was even dressed, yet alone starting. Follow his performance up with some awful penalties, and it would be very easy for me to dismiss Downing as a top D-guy. BUT, he IS a difference maker. At times he can be our best defenseman and he does have a pretty good sense for where to be on the ice. He has all the attributes to be a very good defenseman. On to the forwards, and where do I begin? Copp, Compher, Di Giuseppe, all stars in their own fashion. This group can be scary good when they want to be. One player that I'll focus on that I hope to continue to see more out of, and especially next year, is Alex Guptill. Guppy has been a favorite of mine since he stepped on campus two years ago. Him and DiGi were going to be the future. I was sure of it. Then we ran into this year, and although both players didn't have the years they wanted to last year, it appears that there was a larger affect on Guptill. His attitude this year has been awful, hence him probably being a "healthy" a couple of times. His attitude on the ice, towards officials, teammates, opposing players. He seems so negative, and I can't imagine it's helping his chances playing at the next level. He's been fine since being sat down, in fact he's been one of the best on the ice night in, and night out. I hope he can keep his focus for the remainder of this year, but more importantly, for next year as well. He truly is an incredible player, he just needs to hold himself to a higher standard.
Playoff Outlook
I'll be there Thursday when Michigan takes on Penn State at Xcel Energy Center. Let's hope we come ready to play. We've already proven that we can't let a team like PSU hang around. I've been looking at the scenarios and playing with USCHO.com 's pairwise predictor, and a win on Thursday puts us in a really good position for making the Tournament. Lose, and we still have a shot at getting in, but I wouldn't want to hope my way into a the field of 16. I really do believe they can make a push for the inaugural B1G Tournament crown, but it's going to take three of our best games all year. Plus, if we did end up winning the B1G title, most of the scenarios I've seen pushed us into a 2 seed. As if it really matters. I'm hoping for a 3 seed, but I guess we'll get dealt what we deserve.
Depending on how Thursday goes, I'll report back with a recap from the game, and a brief preview of the Wisconsin game (which I will unfortunately not be able to attend). Thanks for the read and as always, GO BLUE!
Monday, October 14, 2013
New Conference, New Season, New Team
Lots has changed from last year's Michigan team that saw it's 22 year NCAA playoff streak come to an end. A team that ended up 18-19-3, and fell one game short from winning the last ever Mason Cup. Significant improvements have been made to a team that had inconsistent offense, defense and most of all, goaltending in 2012-2013. With the new, young season already underway, Michigan looks optimistic as they look to reload, instead of rebuild.
It's hard for perennial powerhouses to stay out of the national spotlight. Last season the Wolverines found themselves in the wrong kind of spotlight. As Michigan struggled, it was Red Berenson who also struggled with making the decision of whether or not to leave Michigan (you may recall, he spoke publicly about debating whether he should leave Michigan due to poor performance). The iconic Head Coach cited that a strong playoff push was enough to see him come back for the remaining three years of his contract. After an NCAA tournament that was unwelcoming to Michigan for the first time in 22 years, early departures that left multiple questions on the blue line, and a very long off-season for fans of the maize and blue, Michigan took center stage in the College hockey world last Thursday in a showcase matchup vs. #4 ranked Boston College.
#11 Michigan - 3, #4 Boston College - 1
Michigan embarked on a new conference, new season, and revamped lineup on Thursday. The opening night for the college hockey season saw an epic battle of two legendary coaches. With Red Berenson and BC Head Coach Jerry York behind each bench, there couldn't have been a more exciting way for both teams to prove themselves early in the year.
After Michigan's exhibition loss to Windsor, it was unclear on which team would show up on Thursday. Admittedly, Michigan did play very well in their 2-1 loss to Windsor. They moved the puck very well, limited chances, and saw pretty decent goaltending. All in all, they looked like your typical Michigan hockey team (other than not being able to put the puck in the net). Thursday was a new challenge against a team that always looks to play into early April, and Michigan showed up. The Maize and Blue looked like they picked up exactly where they left off from last seasons late push. Luke Moffatt scored just 7:25 into the opening stanza, and Michigan never let up from there. After taking a 1-0 lead into the first intermission, Michigan got an early 2nd period goal from Andrew Copp (the eventual GWG), and Steve Racine backstopped the Wolverines, recording 20 saves en-route to a 3-1 win.
Lots has changed from last year's Michigan team that saw it's 22 year NCAA playoff streak come to an end. A team that ended up 18-19-3, and fell one game short from winning the last ever Mason Cup. Significant improvements have been made to a team that had inconsistent offense, defense and most of all, goaltending in 2012-2013. With the new, young season already underway, Michigan looks optimistic as they look to reload, instead of rebuild.
It's hard for perennial powerhouses to stay out of the national spotlight. Last season the Wolverines found themselves in the wrong kind of spotlight. As Michigan struggled, it was Red Berenson who also struggled with making the decision of whether or not to leave Michigan (you may recall, he spoke publicly about debating whether he should leave Michigan due to poor performance). The iconic Head Coach cited that a strong playoff push was enough to see him come back for the remaining three years of his contract. After an NCAA tournament that was unwelcoming to Michigan for the first time in 22 years, early departures that left multiple questions on the blue line, and a very long off-season for fans of the maize and blue, Michigan took center stage in the College hockey world last Thursday in a showcase matchup vs. #4 ranked Boston College.
#11 Michigan - 3, #4 Boston College - 1
Michigan embarked on a new conference, new season, and revamped lineup on Thursday. The opening night for the college hockey season saw an epic battle of two legendary coaches. With Red Berenson and BC Head Coach Jerry York behind each bench, there couldn't have been a more exciting way for both teams to prove themselves early in the year.
After Michigan's exhibition loss to Windsor, it was unclear on which team would show up on Thursday. Admittedly, Michigan did play very well in their 2-1 loss to Windsor. They moved the puck very well, limited chances, and saw pretty decent goaltending. All in all, they looked like your typical Michigan hockey team (other than not being able to put the puck in the net). Thursday was a new challenge against a team that always looks to play into early April, and Michigan showed up. The Maize and Blue looked like they picked up exactly where they left off from last seasons late push. Luke Moffatt scored just 7:25 into the opening stanza, and Michigan never let up from there. After taking a 1-0 lead into the first intermission, Michigan got an early 2nd period goal from Andrew Copp (the eventual GWG), and Steve Racine backstopped the Wolverines, recording 20 saves en-route to a 3-1 win.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Last Weekend's Recap
First and foremost, I'm just going to come out and say it. I have my foot in my mouth right now. Cornell completely shocked me and I'm still in disbelief that Michigan was sent packing by the Big Red. I'll break down each regional, starting with the unfortunate loss that ended our season.
Cornell 3-Michigan 2 (OT)- Where do I even begin on this game? It seemed as if it was going to be a blow out within the first 95 seconds of the game, only to have a goal disallowed on a very questionable call. Now I'm not saying that's what threw us under the bus, but there's no question that it deflated our tires a little bit. There's so much to say about the departing seniors on this team (which will be said in a different post), but it was a heck of a career for most of them. This game keeps eating away at me because this was absolutely one of the easiest regions, and the trip to another national title seemed so...apparent, for the lack of a better word. It just seemed like Michigan was destined to go back to the FF, and redeem last year's 3-2 overtime loss to UMD. Another year in the books, another championship avoids our grasp. Good season, boys.
(Side Note)- I do find it very strange that the last three games of the year ended with a final score of 3-2, and what's even more strange is the fact that Michigan's season has ended with a 3-2 overtime loss for three consecutive years. First losing to Miami in 2010, then Duluth in the NC game in 2011, and now Cornell in 2012. I love dramatic games, but not when your team comes out on the losing end year in, and year out. Oh, well, gotta stay positive for next year.
Ferris State 2-Denver 1- Ferris narrowly squeaked by Denver, in what I thought was going to be a good game. It certainly turned out that way. It was good to see Ferris get the win, being the only CCHA team to win their game. Collectively the CCHA went 1-4 in their first round games. Not a good showing this year.
Ferris State 2-Cornell 1- All I'm saying is that I'm somewhat glad Cornell didn't make it to the FF. I knew they didn't belong, and even though I was (am) bitter about them beating Michigan, I felt Ferris deserved the chance to go to Tampa. Taylor Nelson played huge in nets for Ferris and was named the regional MVP. He'll need to play even better next weekend in Tampa if he wants to bring a National Championship back to Big Rapids.
West Regional
North Dakota 3- Western Michigan 1- I will admit, I didn't get to see any of this game, which is unfortunate because it sounded like a pretty decent game for the most part. It must have been tough for Western to walk into Englestad East (I swear UND draws more fans than Minnesota at Xcel), and play a surging Sioux team. One thing I will comment on is the new UND jersey, which removed the classic Indian head logo. All I have to say on that issue is that the NCAA is so ridiculously over the line here, I'm honestly becoming more of a Sioux fan just becasue of this ruling. From what I've heard, the Sioux tribe members feel honored to have it be the schools mascot, but lawmakers and other people (fuzzy on this part) are all about removing the logo. Ok ok, you caught me. I'm not an expert on the situation, but I do know that the Indian head logo is a part of the UND tradition, and it would be a shame to see them lose it forever.
Minnesota 7- Boston U 3-This sure was an interesting game to watch. It seemed as if BU had Minnesota against the ropes early, but Minnesota was clearly determined to redeem their monumental collapse against UND in the WCHA final 5. They left no doubt, dropping 7 goals on the Terriers.
Minnesota 5- North Dakota 2- This game was not as exciting as I thought it was going to be. NoDak came out with little to no energy, and the Gophers left no doubts this time. It was a solid win for the Gophers, but something tells me the Sioux weren't up to the challenge on this particular day. I'm pretty sure that if this was a best of 3 game series, it would have gone into overtime in the third game to crown a winner. But that's the beauty and ugliness of college hockey playoffs...one and done. See you in Tampa, Minnesota.
More to come later....
Cornell 3-Michigan 2 (OT)- Where do I even begin on this game? It seemed as if it was going to be a blow out within the first 95 seconds of the game, only to have a goal disallowed on a very questionable call. Now I'm not saying that's what threw us under the bus, but there's no question that it deflated our tires a little bit. There's so much to say about the departing seniors on this team (which will be said in a different post), but it was a heck of a career for most of them. This game keeps eating away at me because this was absolutely one of the easiest regions, and the trip to another national title seemed so...apparent, for the lack of a better word. It just seemed like Michigan was destined to go back to the FF, and redeem last year's 3-2 overtime loss to UMD. Another year in the books, another championship avoids our grasp. Good season, boys.
(Side Note)- I do find it very strange that the last three games of the year ended with a final score of 3-2, and what's even more strange is the fact that Michigan's season has ended with a 3-2 overtime loss for three consecutive years. First losing to Miami in 2010, then Duluth in the NC game in 2011, and now Cornell in 2012. I love dramatic games, but not when your team comes out on the losing end year in, and year out. Oh, well, gotta stay positive for next year.
Ferris State 2-Denver 1- Ferris narrowly squeaked by Denver, in what I thought was going to be a good game. It certainly turned out that way. It was good to see Ferris get the win, being the only CCHA team to win their game. Collectively the CCHA went 1-4 in their first round games. Not a good showing this year.
Ferris State 2-Cornell 1- All I'm saying is that I'm somewhat glad Cornell didn't make it to the FF. I knew they didn't belong, and even though I was (am) bitter about them beating Michigan, I felt Ferris deserved the chance to go to Tampa. Taylor Nelson played huge in nets for Ferris and was named the regional MVP. He'll need to play even better next weekend in Tampa if he wants to bring a National Championship back to Big Rapids.
West Regional
North Dakota 3- Western Michigan 1- I will admit, I didn't get to see any of this game, which is unfortunate because it sounded like a pretty decent game for the most part. It must have been tough for Western to walk into Englestad East (I swear UND draws more fans than Minnesota at Xcel), and play a surging Sioux team. One thing I will comment on is the new UND jersey, which removed the classic Indian head logo. All I have to say on that issue is that the NCAA is so ridiculously over the line here, I'm honestly becoming more of a Sioux fan just becasue of this ruling. From what I've heard, the Sioux tribe members feel honored to have it be the schools mascot, but lawmakers and other people (fuzzy on this part) are all about removing the logo. Ok ok, you caught me. I'm not an expert on the situation, but I do know that the Indian head logo is a part of the UND tradition, and it would be a shame to see them lose it forever.
Minnesota 7- Boston U 3-This sure was an interesting game to watch. It seemed as if BU had Minnesota against the ropes early, but Minnesota was clearly determined to redeem their monumental collapse against UND in the WCHA final 5. They left no doubt, dropping 7 goals on the Terriers.
Minnesota 5- North Dakota 2- This game was not as exciting as I thought it was going to be. NoDak came out with little to no energy, and the Gophers left no doubts this time. It was a solid win for the Gophers, but something tells me the Sioux weren't up to the challenge on this particular day. I'm pretty sure that if this was a best of 3 game series, it would have gone into overtime in the third game to crown a winner. But that's the beauty and ugliness of college hockey playoffs...one and done. See you in Tampa, Minnesota.
More to come later....
Thursday, March 22, 2012
The Best of the Rest...2012 NCAA Tournament Preview
What's going to happen this weekend?! I'm getting a little nervous thinking about how things might unfold (I know, I have a serious problem). In my head I'm imagining all the scenarios that would benefit Michigan, but all wishing aside, here's how I figure the brackets would turn out.
East Regional
Union vs. Michigan State- This is a tough game for me to break down, mainly because it contains two things that I despise. Sparty, and the ECAC. Dry heaves. Fingernails on a chalkboard. Any movie with Reese Witherspoon. That's the feeling I get when I think about these two teams. Normally I would want any team to beat the ECAC team...but now that it's State...I hope they tie. Oh wait, you can't tie in a NCAA tournament game? Well I hope they both concede to Miami and call it a day.
Prediction: 5-3 Union- Only because I've heard from people that they have some talented forwards. Like I said, I could care less. Picking the lesser of two evils.
UMASS-Lowell vs. Miami (OH)-Well looky here! This should actually be a pretty decent game! In a region where I wish Michigan would have ended up (Midwest isn't that bad FTR), I'm really liking Miami's chances to stumble into the NCAA tournament. Granted I don't honestly believe that they belong here, but they are just the most logical team to survive this (weak) bracket.
Prediction: 4-0 Miami-Look for Conner Knapp to play stellar, and for the rest of the Miami forwards to play inspired hockey this weekend. They haven't been stellar all year, but once you get to this point, it doesn't really matter anymore. Win and move on...that's enough motivation for the Redhawks.
Championship game: Miami 6-Union 1-I hope this game isn't close...no matter who is in it. This region isn't very interesting to me, and I don't want to do the whole "foot in mouth" routine, but I'm fairly confident you won't find a national champion in the East.
Lets Go West!
Minnesota vs. Boston University-I probably should have started in this region because this is where I'll be paying most of my attention (apart from UM, of course). Heavyweight programs squaring off in the first round. It doesn't get any better than this. BU-Minnesota...the 70's rivalry revisited. It seems like these two teams are always in the hunt for a national championship, and even when they're having down years, teams still circle them on their schedule. That's the cost of being a national powerhouse. The fact that this game is taking place in Minnesota makes me want to lean a little towards the maroon and gold, but after seeing the IMPLOSION last weekend, I have to take BU in this one. I have a feeling that more Sioux fans are going to these games anyway...after seeing the XCel energy center lit up with black and green last year for the Frozen Four, I know that that place will have at least 15,000 Sioux fans ready to cheer on BU (well, maybe they want to beat the Gophers to go to the Frozen Four, but whatever). Either way, UND fans will be out in full force to cheer on their beloved Sioux. BU had a strong regular season, much like Minnesota, but I have a feeling they might be able to eek out a win on the road. I'll say...
4-3 (OT)-BU
North Dakota vs. Western Michigan-Does it get any better than this!? Two teams peaking at the right time squaring off in the first round. Because I don't have much time to write as much as I'd like...I'll come straight out and say it...North Dakota wins this game. It may not be pretty, and it certainly won't be a clean game, but North Dakota will end up grinding down the Broncos. Aaron Dell can be an elite level goaltender if he has a focused team in front of him (as apparent in the 2nd and 3rd periods of the Minnesota Final Five game).
5-2-Sioux
Championship: North Dakota 4-BU 2
Ahhh NORDEAST
BC vs. Air Force-Look, I like this bracket a lot! It's obvious BC is the fan favorite, and a lot of people will be hopping on the BC bandwagon. But as Lee Corso always says..."NOT SO FAST MY FRIEND!!!!". As much as it still burns me to think about...Air Force pulled off a huge upset in 2009 against the boys in Blue, and anything can happen around this time of the year. Air Force has definitely been streaky all year, but they can play up to other team's levels.
Prediction: 3-2 BC-It'll be close, but you can't fight that #1 ranking. There's a reason why the Eagles come in as the top ranked team in the land.
Duluth vs. Maine-To me, this is going to be an AWESOME game. Both teams are playing great hockey, and both are hungry for a chance to get back to the Frozen Four. I'd really like it if Maine took this region, but sometimes you gotta bet with your brain, and not your heart.
Prediction: 5-3 Duluth-Gotta go with the defending national champions here.
Championship Game: 2-1 (OT) Duluth-After last year's overtime loss to Duluth...I want nothing more than to beat them in the 2012 Championship. Better believe I'm advancing them to the FF based solely on that reason.
So there we have it...if my predictions turn out correctly, we'll see...
Michigan
Miami
North Dakota
Minn-Duluth
...in the frozen four. Another All-WCHA/CCHA Frozen Four for the second year in a row. I'll check back early next week to review my picks, reflect on the tournament, and discuss the Frozen Four.
Happy hockey readers...
East Regional
Union vs. Michigan State- This is a tough game for me to break down, mainly because it contains two things that I despise. Sparty, and the ECAC. Dry heaves. Fingernails on a chalkboard. Any movie with Reese Witherspoon. That's the feeling I get when I think about these two teams. Normally I would want any team to beat the ECAC team...but now that it's State...I hope they tie. Oh wait, you can't tie in a NCAA tournament game? Well I hope they both concede to Miami and call it a day.
Prediction: 5-3 Union- Only because I've heard from people that they have some talented forwards. Like I said, I could care less. Picking the lesser of two evils.
UMASS-Lowell vs. Miami (OH)-Well looky here! This should actually be a pretty decent game! In a region where I wish Michigan would have ended up (Midwest isn't that bad FTR), I'm really liking Miami's chances to stumble into the NCAA tournament. Granted I don't honestly believe that they belong here, but they are just the most logical team to survive this (weak) bracket.
Prediction: 4-0 Miami-Look for Conner Knapp to play stellar, and for the rest of the Miami forwards to play inspired hockey this weekend. They haven't been stellar all year, but once you get to this point, it doesn't really matter anymore. Win and move on...that's enough motivation for the Redhawks.
Championship game: Miami 6-Union 1-I hope this game isn't close...no matter who is in it. This region isn't very interesting to me, and I don't want to do the whole "foot in mouth" routine, but I'm fairly confident you won't find a national champion in the East.
Lets Go West!
Minnesota vs. Boston University-I probably should have started in this region because this is where I'll be paying most of my attention (apart from UM, of course). Heavyweight programs squaring off in the first round. It doesn't get any better than this. BU-Minnesota...the 70's rivalry revisited. It seems like these two teams are always in the hunt for a national championship, and even when they're having down years, teams still circle them on their schedule. That's the cost of being a national powerhouse. The fact that this game is taking place in Minnesota makes me want to lean a little towards the maroon and gold, but after seeing the IMPLOSION last weekend, I have to take BU in this one. I have a feeling that more Sioux fans are going to these games anyway...after seeing the XCel energy center lit up with black and green last year for the Frozen Four, I know that that place will have at least 15,000 Sioux fans ready to cheer on BU (well, maybe they want to beat the Gophers to go to the Frozen Four, but whatever). Either way, UND fans will be out in full force to cheer on their beloved Sioux. BU had a strong regular season, much like Minnesota, but I have a feeling they might be able to eek out a win on the road. I'll say...
4-3 (OT)-BU
North Dakota vs. Western Michigan-Does it get any better than this!? Two teams peaking at the right time squaring off in the first round. Because I don't have much time to write as much as I'd like...I'll come straight out and say it...North Dakota wins this game. It may not be pretty, and it certainly won't be a clean game, but North Dakota will end up grinding down the Broncos. Aaron Dell can be an elite level goaltender if he has a focused team in front of him (as apparent in the 2nd and 3rd periods of the Minnesota Final Five game).
5-2-Sioux
Championship: North Dakota 4-BU 2
Ahhh NORDEAST
BC vs. Air Force-Look, I like this bracket a lot! It's obvious BC is the fan favorite, and a lot of people will be hopping on the BC bandwagon. But as Lee Corso always says..."NOT SO FAST MY FRIEND!!!!". As much as it still burns me to think about...Air Force pulled off a huge upset in 2009 against the boys in Blue, and anything can happen around this time of the year. Air Force has definitely been streaky all year, but they can play up to other team's levels.
Prediction: 3-2 BC-It'll be close, but you can't fight that #1 ranking. There's a reason why the Eagles come in as the top ranked team in the land.
Duluth vs. Maine-To me, this is going to be an AWESOME game. Both teams are playing great hockey, and both are hungry for a chance to get back to the Frozen Four. I'd really like it if Maine took this region, but sometimes you gotta bet with your brain, and not your heart.
Prediction: 5-3 Duluth-Gotta go with the defending national champions here.
Championship Game: 2-1 (OT) Duluth-After last year's overtime loss to Duluth...I want nothing more than to beat them in the 2012 Championship. Better believe I'm advancing them to the FF based solely on that reason.
So there we have it...if my predictions turn out correctly, we'll see...
Michigan
Miami
North Dakota
Minn-Duluth
...in the frozen four. Another All-WCHA/CCHA Frozen Four for the second year in a row. I'll check back early next week to review my picks, reflect on the tournament, and discuss the Frozen Four.
Happy hockey readers...
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Blah Blah skip a season...Blah Blah
Whew! Well that was a crazy season...let's see what did I miss?
-Some goals were scored...
-Some saves were made...
-Won some...
-Lost some....
Annnnnd voila! #1 Seed in the Midwest region, playing Cornell. Sound good?
Ok ok, in all honesty I got really bad with visiting my blog...and I forgot my username/password, but that's a whole different story. Enough excuses though, I was terrible writing on here. Or not writing (I guess). My deepest apologies if anyone was really hell-bent over my 4 month hiatus. But there's something special about playoff time. Snow is melting, playoff intensity, national champions to be crowned. Yup, Michigan is at it again, looking to make their second consecutive Frozen Four appearance. Let's take a look at the region, and how I see it unfolding...
#1 Seed-Michigan Wolverines (24-12-4)
Well, tbh, you're reading a Michigan hockey blog, so you should probably know how we stack up, and what we need to do to get to Tampa. (<--------too many "to"s? Ok, just checking)
#2 Seed- Ferris State Bulldogs (23-11-5)
The #1 team in the CCHA regular season had quite the disappointing ending to their playoff run, losing to Bowling Green in the best of three series. Their top dog, IMO, is Sr. Goaltender Taylor Nelson, who had a .920SV% and a 2.18GAA throughout the regular season. He NEEDS to be the best player on the ice in Green Bay in order for the Bulldogs to win. I think Ferris has a solid 1st and 2nd line, and each player is capable of scoring when needed. They don't have any real offensive stand outs, but what they do have is a set of consistent 2 lines that can go toe-to-toe with any 2 lines in the country. There...I said it. Ferris is a good team. BUT, they're playing a pretty well rounded Denver team who got smacked in the mouth by NoDak in the WCHA championship game. Ferris needs/wants to prove that the BG series was a fluke, and that they belong in the contention for a National Championship.
#3 Seed- Denver Pioneers (25-13-4)
To me, Denver is a sleeping giant. They can play with the big dogs, and if they get some confidence, they can be a very scary team. Let's start in goal with Sam Brittian (who should get the start against FSU, but ya never know). 67 saves against UMD in the WCHA semi-final. Granted they played roughly 88 minutes of hockey, but still...to fend off the defending national champions for 88 minutes is quite impressive to say the least. If Gwozdecky can't figure out that he's got a good goaltender right there, maybe he should be re-evaluated as Head Hockey Coach at DU. Just saying. But nevertheless, I think he'll make the right decision and throw Brittian between the pipes, which means we should have a great goaltending match up in the DU/FSU game.
Next up, the DU forwards...holy buckets they've got a few studs on this team, and if they get rolling, there might not be any stopping them. Jr. Drew Shore with 52 points (21g, 31a) on the year, Jason Zucker with 46 (22g, 24a), and little brother Nick Shore with 41points (13g, 28a). These are some pretty serious numbers, and like I feel like I've said 3299 times in this post, Denver is not to be messed with. They are for real, mark my words. And, on top of the three forwards with 40+ points, add Freshman Defenseman Joey LaLeggia contributing 38 (11g, 27a) points from the blue line, and Denver seems primed to make another post-season push.
#4 Seed-Cornell Big Red (18-8-7)
Anyone that knows me, knows that if there's three things I hate about college hockey, it's that there's no NCAA hockey video game, the Michigan State Spartans, and the fact that the ECAC gets too much attention in the NCAA tournament. Prime example, look at Yale last year. Ranked #1 in the nation for how long? Bounced in the first round? C'mon this is getting ridiculous. When was the last time a ECAC team made a serious run in the national tournament? I honestly can't remember (maybe because I don't choose to remember, but whatever). To me, the ECAC is a joke of a conference, and...........I just happened to ponder what would happen if the Big Red upset Michigan. Let's just say I'll stop here, and say good luck to the Big Red.
How I see it unfolding...
Michigan beats Cornell 5-2
Denver beats Ferris 4-3 in OT (I'm hoping this game goes into OT, 2OT, heck maybe even 3OT just so the winner is gassed for the next game).
Michigan beats DU 3-2
That's how I see it happening. Expert prediction if I may say so. I'll be in Rochester MN for an adult hockey tournament, but will be extremely focused on the games this weekend. Good luck to all teams (except for those playing UM). Hopefully we see some exciting games.
-Some goals were scored...
-Some saves were made...
-Won some...
-Lost some....
Annnnnd voila! #1 Seed in the Midwest region, playing Cornell. Sound good?
Ok ok, in all honesty I got really bad with visiting my blog...and I forgot my username/password, but that's a whole different story. Enough excuses though, I was terrible writing on here. Or not writing (I guess). My deepest apologies if anyone was really hell-bent over my 4 month hiatus. But there's something special about playoff time. Snow is melting, playoff intensity, national champions to be crowned. Yup, Michigan is at it again, looking to make their second consecutive Frozen Four appearance. Let's take a look at the region, and how I see it unfolding...
#1 Seed-Michigan Wolverines (24-12-4)
Well, tbh, you're reading a Michigan hockey blog, so you should probably know how we stack up, and what we need to do to get to Tampa. (<--------too many "to"s? Ok, just checking)
#2 Seed- Ferris State Bulldogs (23-11-5)
The #1 team in the CCHA regular season had quite the disappointing ending to their playoff run, losing to Bowling Green in the best of three series. Their top dog, IMO, is Sr. Goaltender Taylor Nelson, who had a .920SV% and a 2.18GAA throughout the regular season. He NEEDS to be the best player on the ice in Green Bay in order for the Bulldogs to win. I think Ferris has a solid 1st and 2nd line, and each player is capable of scoring when needed. They don't have any real offensive stand outs, but what they do have is a set of consistent 2 lines that can go toe-to-toe with any 2 lines in the country. There...I said it. Ferris is a good team. BUT, they're playing a pretty well rounded Denver team who got smacked in the mouth by NoDak in the WCHA championship game. Ferris needs/wants to prove that the BG series was a fluke, and that they belong in the contention for a National Championship.
#3 Seed- Denver Pioneers (25-13-4)
To me, Denver is a sleeping giant. They can play with the big dogs, and if they get some confidence, they can be a very scary team. Let's start in goal with Sam Brittian (who should get the start against FSU, but ya never know). 67 saves against UMD in the WCHA semi-final. Granted they played roughly 88 minutes of hockey, but still...to fend off the defending national champions for 88 minutes is quite impressive to say the least. If Gwozdecky can't figure out that he's got a good goaltender right there, maybe he should be re-evaluated as Head Hockey Coach at DU. Just saying. But nevertheless, I think he'll make the right decision and throw Brittian between the pipes, which means we should have a great goaltending match up in the DU/FSU game.
Next up, the DU forwards...holy buckets they've got a few studs on this team, and if they get rolling, there might not be any stopping them. Jr. Drew Shore with 52 points (21g, 31a) on the year, Jason Zucker with 46 (22g, 24a), and little brother Nick Shore with 41points (13g, 28a). These are some pretty serious numbers, and like I feel like I've said 3299 times in this post, Denver is not to be messed with. They are for real, mark my words. And, on top of the three forwards with 40+ points, add Freshman Defenseman Joey LaLeggia contributing 38 (11g, 27a) points from the blue line, and Denver seems primed to make another post-season push.
#4 Seed-Cornell Big Red (18-8-7)
Anyone that knows me, knows that if there's three things I hate about college hockey, it's that there's no NCAA hockey video game, the Michigan State Spartans, and the fact that the ECAC gets too much attention in the NCAA tournament. Prime example, look at Yale last year. Ranked #1 in the nation for how long? Bounced in the first round? C'mon this is getting ridiculous. When was the last time a ECAC team made a serious run in the national tournament? I honestly can't remember (maybe because I don't choose to remember, but whatever). To me, the ECAC is a joke of a conference, and...........I just happened to ponder what would happen if the Big Red upset Michigan. Let's just say I'll stop here, and say good luck to the Big Red.
How I see it unfolding...
Michigan beats Cornell 5-2
Denver beats Ferris 4-3 in OT (I'm hoping this game goes into OT, 2OT, heck maybe even 3OT just so the winner is gassed for the next game).
Michigan beats DU 3-2
That's how I see it happening. Expert prediction if I may say so. I'll be in Rochester MN for an adult hockey tournament, but will be extremely focused on the games this weekend. Good luck to all teams (except for those playing UM). Hopefully we see some exciting games.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Offensive Outburst!
Ok, what happened last night? Did the Maize and Blue really light the lamp 10 times against St. Lawerence, or was I just dreaming? We did?! Ok, I thought so.
Last night Michigan defeated St. Lawerence 10-3 at Yost Ice Arena, moving Michigan's record to a perfect 4-0 early in the year. Michigan was led by...well, too many goal scorers, but the obvious choice is Senior Captain Luke Glendenning, who scored a hat-trick, and David Wohlberg who scored a goal to go along with his three helpers. It was nice to see the offense explode, and wow were they firing on all cylinders. It's easy to say that St. Lawerence isn't the strongest team, but the night belonged to Michigan. Every bounce seemed to go Michigan's way.
I don't think you can score ten goals and NOT have the bounces go your way. Hunwick, played solid and allowed three goals on 30 shots. The defense, to me, is still a work in progress though. They're still taking a lot of chances, and maybe it was due to the offenseive outburst, but they seemed to be jumping up in the play a little too much. Shots were 34-32, so it's not like the defense had the night off or anything. When was the last time Michigan scored 10 goals in a game!? I honestly can't recall the last time we put up double digits on an opponent. It's good for them to score, and for a lot of freshmen, get the "monkey off their backs", so to speak. They won't have to feel pressured to produce since they have been doing it so much already. But, the early cake walk is over, and the next step to defending the CCHA regular season crown comes next week in Marquette. I can imagine that the offense will come into that series with a lot of confidence, but I'm going to steal one from Brady Hoke's page, and remind everyone that this is still a young team, and has a long ways to go. They will get even better, and hopefully the long season won't take it's toll too early this year.
It should be interesting to see some premier teams go head-to-head this weekend. Boston College/University take on Denver, which will be a great test for all three teams. Maine heads out west to visit North Dakota, which could be a very rude awakening for the Blackbears. And last but not least, the Gophers head up to Duluth in an early season WCHA matchup. Hmm...interesting...PREDICTIONS:
Denver beats BU, Ties BC-BC hangs onto #1 ranking
North Dakota sweeps Maine
UMD and Minnesota split in what I think will be a hard fought series.
Last night Michigan defeated St. Lawerence 10-3 at Yost Ice Arena, moving Michigan's record to a perfect 4-0 early in the year. Michigan was led by...well, too many goal scorers, but the obvious choice is Senior Captain Luke Glendenning, who scored a hat-trick, and David Wohlberg who scored a goal to go along with his three helpers. It was nice to see the offense explode, and wow were they firing on all cylinders. It's easy to say that St. Lawerence isn't the strongest team, but the night belonged to Michigan. Every bounce seemed to go Michigan's way.
I don't think you can score ten goals and NOT have the bounces go your way. Hunwick, played solid and allowed three goals on 30 shots. The defense, to me, is still a work in progress though. They're still taking a lot of chances, and maybe it was due to the offenseive outburst, but they seemed to be jumping up in the play a little too much. Shots were 34-32, so it's not like the defense had the night off or anything. When was the last time Michigan scored 10 goals in a game!? I honestly can't recall the last time we put up double digits on an opponent. It's good for them to score, and for a lot of freshmen, get the "monkey off their backs", so to speak. They won't have to feel pressured to produce since they have been doing it so much already. But, the early cake walk is over, and the next step to defending the CCHA regular season crown comes next week in Marquette. I can imagine that the offense will come into that series with a lot of confidence, but I'm going to steal one from Brady Hoke's page, and remind everyone that this is still a young team, and has a long ways to go. They will get even better, and hopefully the long season won't take it's toll too early this year.
It should be interesting to see some premier teams go head-to-head this weekend. Boston College/University take on Denver, which will be a great test for all three teams. Maine heads out west to visit North Dakota, which could be a very rude awakening for the Blackbears. And last but not least, the Gophers head up to Duluth in an early season WCHA matchup. Hmm...interesting...PREDICTIONS:
Denver beats BU, Ties BC-BC hangs onto #1 ranking
North Dakota sweeps Maine
UMD and Minnesota split in what I think will be a hard fought series.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Maize Jersey
We all know that there have been mixed feelings on the new Reebok jerseys this year...people love one, hate the others, love em all, or hate em all!!! Either way you look at it, I feel as if they missed their mark this year (especially with the white jersey, but that's my own 2 cents). So late last night I explored around to see what people wanted to see on the jerseys. It was almost overwhelming that a lot of people wanted to see the script "Michigan" back on the maize jersey...So I played around with some pictures and came to this conclusion.
It's not the same script as the 1998 national championship jersey (the "m" is slightly different), but it is the script from the maize jersey from 2003. Either way, I think it looks great and I'm increasingly dissappointed that they didn't go with this look! Personally, I feel this personifies Michigan hockey at it's finest.
I'm also playing around with the away, and white jersey too, but can't gain a good consensus on what people want to see on those jerseys. So let me know what you want to see! Do you want the block "M" to come back to the white jersey?! Should the block "M" stick to the away blue? Maybe the diagonal "Michigan" should come back?! Bounce some ideas around, and let me know what you want to see!
-GO BLUE!
It's not the same script as the 1998 national championship jersey (the "m" is slightly different), but it is the script from the maize jersey from 2003. Either way, I think it looks great and I'm increasingly dissappointed that they didn't go with this look! Personally, I feel this personifies Michigan hockey at it's finest.
I'm also playing around with the away, and white jersey too, but can't gain a good consensus on what people want to see on those jerseys. So let me know what you want to see! Do you want the block "M" to come back to the white jersey?! Should the block "M" stick to the away blue? Maybe the diagonal "Michigan" should come back?! Bounce some ideas around, and let me know what you want to see!
-GO BLUE!
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
St. Lawrence Preview
Michigan comes into this game with a 3-0 record, and I wouldn't expect anything less than another big win from the Maize and Blue. The defense, although giving up some relatively good chances early in the young 2011-2012 season, has looked very good. Ever since Merrill was suspended, question marks started popping up everywhere. Who's going to be the blue line threat on the powerplay? Will any defenseman register 20+ points? Rest assured Wolverine faithful, the blueline will be fine. The biggest concerns I had this year was where was the offense going to come from?! Even that question has been answered (granted, it is early in the year) thus far. Averaging 4.6 goals per game, the Michigan forwards, especially underclassman have stepped up huge. Thursday against St. Lawrence will be another day for them to prove themselves. Let's look ahead to this one game homestand to see where Michigan can improve, and what they need to do in order to get a W.
Keys to the game:
-Physcal play! Michigan needs to be physical with St. Lawrence, especially in the defensive zone. St. Lawrence has never been a team known for their size, so the Wolverines need to take body every chance they get. Grind the Saints down, and use Yost to our advantage.
-Continue being successful on the PP. 28% is a pretty tremendous number, and if Michigan can convert on 25% of their chances tommorow, consider it a success.
- Let Hunwick become comfortable in net. A little contradictory to my other keys to success, but do not be mistaken, Michigan NEEDS Hunwick. The CCHA goaltender of the week has been simply on fire in the first three games. What the defense needs to focus on is boosting Shawn's confidence. "But how?", one might ask, and the answer is simple. Again, eliminate odd man rushes, and force St. Lawerence to shoot outside shots. Shawn will have no problems with these types of shots, and he's proven before that he can easily make 40 saves without seeing too many quality opportunities (North Dakota, last year). Now, giving up 40 shots to St. Lawrence would be another story, but look for Hunwick to make around 25-30 saves in this game.
-EARLY START. Coming on strong in the third period has been an early common theme for the Wolverines, and look for them to come out swinging early in this one. Yes, we've outscored opponents 3-1 in the first period...but a stronger start will lead to a stronger finish in my opinion. We waited to turn it on in the 3rd against Bentley, and the sense of urgency seemed to fill Yost. Not like we were in a come-from-behind scenario, but peppering their goalie all night had to pay off eventually. Hopefully it doesn't take a late surge to light the lamp.
Prediction: W 4-0
Look for Hunwick to increase his sterling numbers, and for Chris Brown to have a big game with at least three points. The freshmen will yet again contribute, and Michigan will play it's most complete game yet. See you tomorrow at Yost. The puck drops at 7:35.
Michigan comes into this game with a 3-0 record, and I wouldn't expect anything less than another big win from the Maize and Blue. The defense, although giving up some relatively good chances early in the young 2011-2012 season, has looked very good. Ever since Merrill was suspended, question marks started popping up everywhere. Who's going to be the blue line threat on the powerplay? Will any defenseman register 20+ points? Rest assured Wolverine faithful, the blueline will be fine. The biggest concerns I had this year was where was the offense going to come from?! Even that question has been answered (granted, it is early in the year) thus far. Averaging 4.6 goals per game, the Michigan forwards, especially underclassman have stepped up huge. Thursday against St. Lawrence will be another day for them to prove themselves. Let's look ahead to this one game homestand to see where Michigan can improve, and what they need to do in order to get a W.
Keys to the game:
-Physcal play! Michigan needs to be physical with St. Lawrence, especially in the defensive zone. St. Lawrence has never been a team known for their size, so the Wolverines need to take body every chance they get. Grind the Saints down, and use Yost to our advantage.
-Continue being successful on the PP. 28% is a pretty tremendous number, and if Michigan can convert on 25% of their chances tommorow, consider it a success.
- Let Hunwick become comfortable in net. A little contradictory to my other keys to success, but do not be mistaken, Michigan NEEDS Hunwick. The CCHA goaltender of the week has been simply on fire in the first three games. What the defense needs to focus on is boosting Shawn's confidence. "But how?", one might ask, and the answer is simple. Again, eliminate odd man rushes, and force St. Lawerence to shoot outside shots. Shawn will have no problems with these types of shots, and he's proven before that he can easily make 40 saves without seeing too many quality opportunities (North Dakota, last year). Now, giving up 40 shots to St. Lawrence would be another story, but look for Hunwick to make around 25-30 saves in this game.
-EARLY START. Coming on strong in the third period has been an early common theme for the Wolverines, and look for them to come out swinging early in this one. Yes, we've outscored opponents 3-1 in the first period...but a stronger start will lead to a stronger finish in my opinion. We waited to turn it on in the 3rd against Bentley, and the sense of urgency seemed to fill Yost. Not like we were in a come-from-behind scenario, but peppering their goalie all night had to pay off eventually. Hopefully it doesn't take a late surge to light the lamp.
Prediction: W 4-0
Look for Hunwick to increase his sterling numbers, and for Chris Brown to have a big game with at least three points. The freshmen will yet again contribute, and Michigan will play it's most complete game yet. See you tomorrow at Yost. The puck drops at 7:35.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Weekend Recap
The Michigan Wolverines improved their record to 3-0 with a weekend sweep of the Bentley Falcons. Michigan won Friday night by a score of 5-1, and then secured a 4-1 win on Saturday.
Friday Recap: W 5-1
Although the score may be indicative of the shots produced by Michigan, it actually took the Wolverines until late in the third period to settle in. After giving up a first period goal, and falling behind behind quickly, Michigan uped their offensive and defensive performances for the final two periods. Backboned by none other than Shawn Hunwick, who had 18 saves in the win, Michigan got offensive help from Sr. defenseman Greg Pateryn, who notted the score early in the secord period. From there on it was all maize and blue, as the Wolverines began to dominate the physicality and ended up out shooting the Falcons 34-13 in the final two periods. David Wohlberg scored the eventual game winner on the powerplay, and Michigan never looked back. The final three goals were not tallied until late in the third period as Michigan then opened the flood gates on Bentley. Freshman forward Alex Guptill scored his first collegiate goal, followed by goals from Sr. Luke Glendenning and Jr. A.J. Treais. Michigan scored three goals late in the third period, all of which came three minutes apart from each other.
Saturday Recap: W 4-1
Saturday night's game proved that Michigan, although young offensively, can rely on newcomers to get the job done. Freshman forward Phil Di Giuseppe scored twice as the University of Michigan completed it's sweep over Atlantic Hockey's Bentley Falcons. Di Giuseppe scored the first Michigan goal after Luke Moffatt's shot on goal trickled past the Bentley goaltender, and Di Giuseppe dove to tip it in. It was a typical "blue collar" goal, as Michigan just out worked the Bentley defense. Di Giuseppe's second goal came on the powerplay, on which Michigan went 3 for 10 on the weekend, and is 4 for 14 on the season. The game was more of a complete performance from the blue liners, and the freshmen forwards came through once again for the maize and blue. The turning point of the game was when Bentley appeared to score from a shallow angle shot, only to be disallowed due to goaltender interference (which upon further review showed that it was in fact the correct call). From then on it was all Michigan, again out shooting the Falcons 43 to 22. It was a good weekend sweep, and also very nice to see Michigan get some help from some underclassmen, who are indeed going to have to play certain roles if this team wants to repeat last season's trip to the Frozen Four. Although Bentley isn't a top 20 team (or top 40 team for that matter), it was nice to see the offense put up some respectable numbers. This is going to be a good year for the Maize and Blue, who no doubt have a long ways to go this season, but are showing signs of progression early on.
Visit again later on in the week when we preview Michigan's upcoming home game against St. Lawrence.
Friday Recap: W 5-1
Although the score may be indicative of the shots produced by Michigan, it actually took the Wolverines until late in the third period to settle in. After giving up a first period goal, and falling behind behind quickly, Michigan uped their offensive and defensive performances for the final two periods. Backboned by none other than Shawn Hunwick, who had 18 saves in the win, Michigan got offensive help from Sr. defenseman Greg Pateryn, who notted the score early in the secord period. From there on it was all maize and blue, as the Wolverines began to dominate the physicality and ended up out shooting the Falcons 34-13 in the final two periods. David Wohlberg scored the eventual game winner on the powerplay, and Michigan never looked back. The final three goals were not tallied until late in the third period as Michigan then opened the flood gates on Bentley. Freshman forward Alex Guptill scored his first collegiate goal, followed by goals from Sr. Luke Glendenning and Jr. A.J. Treais. Michigan scored three goals late in the third period, all of which came three minutes apart from each other.
Saturday Recap: W 4-1
Saturday night's game proved that Michigan, although young offensively, can rely on newcomers to get the job done. Freshman forward Phil Di Giuseppe scored twice as the University of Michigan completed it's sweep over Atlantic Hockey's Bentley Falcons. Di Giuseppe scored the first Michigan goal after Luke Moffatt's shot on goal trickled past the Bentley goaltender, and Di Giuseppe dove to tip it in. It was a typical "blue collar" goal, as Michigan just out worked the Bentley defense. Di Giuseppe's second goal came on the powerplay, on which Michigan went 3 for 10 on the weekend, and is 4 for 14 on the season. The game was more of a complete performance from the blue liners, and the freshmen forwards came through once again for the maize and blue. The turning point of the game was when Bentley appeared to score from a shallow angle shot, only to be disallowed due to goaltender interference (which upon further review showed that it was in fact the correct call). From then on it was all Michigan, again out shooting the Falcons 43 to 22. It was a good weekend sweep, and also very nice to see Michigan get some help from some underclassmen, who are indeed going to have to play certain roles if this team wants to repeat last season's trip to the Frozen Four. Although Bentley isn't a top 20 team (or top 40 team for that matter), it was nice to see the offense put up some respectable numbers. This is going to be a good year for the Maize and Blue, who no doubt have a long ways to go this season, but are showing signs of progression early on.
Visit again later on in the week when we preview Michigan's upcoming home game against St. Lawrence.
Friday, October 7, 2011
First Weekend Home Series Slated vs. Bentley
Bentley Series Preview
The University of Michigan mens ice hockey team (No. 6 USCHO poll/No.9 USA Today 1-0-0 overall, 0-0-0 CCHA) is set for a weekend series against the Bentley Falcons (0-0-0). Michigan enters the contest playing on (somewhat) short rest as the Wolverines defeated Niagara on Monday, and the US U-18 team on Sunday night. The Wolverines came out flying in their season opener Monday, unleashing 5 goals on 37 shots. Michigan was led by Junior Lindsay Sparks (3g-1a-4p) in a game that saw a total of 75 shots combined between the two teams. Sparks registered his first goal just after the one minute mark of the first period, and it proved to be all of the offense the Wolverines would need, as Sr. Shawn Hunwick and So. Adam Janecyk combined for a 38-save shutout of the Purple Eagles.
Looking forward to Friday night's matchup, the Wolverines look to answer a couple of questions from their blue-liners, who surrendered 38 shots to Niagara on Monday. Michigan has gotten consistant play from goaltender Shawn Hunwick, but the defense needs to take aim at lowering the work load of their star goaltender. Hunwick, who will pressumably start every game for the maize and blue this year, seems to have picked up where he left off last season, falling just short of Michigan's tenth NCAA title. There's no doubt that if Michigan wants to repeat it's successes of last season, they must become a defensive minded team. The loss of So. Jon Merrill for 12 games due to a suspension is a big blow the the Wolverines blue-liners. Merrill, an All-CCHA rookie defenseman last year recorded 7g-18-25p last year as a Freshman, and was figured to play a large roll in shaping this year's defense. Michigan now looks to Kevin Clare (So.), Lee Moffie (Jr.), and steady defenseman Greg Pateryn (Sr.) to be leaders among the Michigan defensemen.
Coming into the 2011-2012 campaign, offensive production was a huge question mark for the maize and blue, who lost four of their top five point getters from last year's team. Lindsay Sparks provided somewhat of an answer registering a hat-trick against Niagara, but the Wolverines need more from Forwards Chris Brown (Jr.), and captain Luke Glendening. Other forwards that are looking to make an impact this year are Freshmen Zach Hyman, and Phil Di Giuseppe. Both looked strong in Michigan's exhibition games, and are expected by Red Berenson to produce goals.
Bentley-The Falcons come into Ann Arbor looking to improve off of last years 10-18-6 record, and returns eight of their top 10 scorers, as well as 10 of their top 12. Bentley aslo returns their top six defensemen as well, and are bringing a lot of depth into Yost.
Key Players for Michigan- Three players that must elevate their game if Michigan wants to continue to be perfect on the season are Lindsay Sparks, Chris Brown, and as usual, goaltender Shawn Hunwick.
Keys to the Game- Michigan must start quickly out of the gates again, and utilize their aggressive forecheck. Michigan cashed in at the 1:02 mark of the first period against Niagara and never looked back.
-Stay out of penalty trouble. Although Michigan was a perfect six-for-six killing penalties on Monday, they have to play more diciplined tonight. Bentley isn't a team you want to give free chances to, so look for Michigan to play a more conservative defense game.
-Force shooters to the outside, and limit odd-man rushes. With a steady goaltender like Shawn Hunwick in nets for Michigan, he should be able to save around 99% of the outside shots he sees. Denying Bentley shots from the slot, and eliminating bodies from in front of the net should be a primary focus for the Michigan defense. Michigan also must limit the amount of odd-man rushes. Maybe it was first game jitters, but Michigan over-pursued Naigara multiple times, which led to trouble. Again, Michigan cannot rely on Shawn Hunwick to steal games for them.
Series Prediction- Friday-W 2-1, Saturday W 4-3
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