Big Ten Mulling 'Year of Readiness'

This is a horrible idea and couldn't see college hockey adopting this silly rule. a rule like this would cause big ticket recruits to do to Major Junior and bypass college hockey altogether.

I think this is a horrible idea for football and basketball as well.

Adam Rittenberg, ESPN.com -- The Big Ten is seeking feedback from its members about the possibility of making freshmen athletes ineligible for competition as they adjust to college life.

In a statement to ESPN.com, the league says it is gauging interest from its members about a "national discussion regarding a year of readiness for student-athletes."

The league has provided background to its members about such a step but has made no official proposal at this point.

The Big Ten has provided background to its members about the possibility of making freshmen athletes ineligible for competition as they adjust to college life but has made no official proposal at this point.

The Diamondback, the student newspaper at Maryland, reported Thursday that the Big Ten is circulating a document titled, "A Year of Readiness," which explores making freshmen in football and men's basketball ineligible for competition.

Alex Ovechkin Hits, Slashes Kris Letang, Scrums Develop

Exciting game in Pittsburgh tonight. Washington Capitals forward slashed Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kris Letang on the back of the legs and then Letang blew a tire. It was kind of an odd the way that things transpired. Letang has returned to the game.

Should there have been a penalty on Ovie?

Bedlam here in the 'Burgh. Pens losing their cool and refs losing control. #Caps would be wise to take advantage, if they're able. #CapsPens
— Mike Vogel (@VogsCaps) February 18, 2015

Biddco and RWD Your NCHC Fans of the Week

Congrats to our co-@SportNgin #NCHCFan of the Week, @Biddco & @runwiththedogs, who saw the #FFTrophyTour @UMDHockey pic.twitter.com/U6f4lvg4Gq
— The NCHC (@TheNCHC) February 17, 2015

I couldn't resist this one.

Big Buff Smokes Luke Gazdic

Check out this legal, hard, crisp shoulder-to-shoulder check by Winnipeg Jets defenseman Dustin Byfuglien. Big Buff absolutely blows up Luke Gazdic wth a monster check. I hurt just watching the video.

the thing with buff and that hit, really, who is gonna fight him? he's untouchable. can do whatever he wants #nhljets
— gary lawless (@garylawless) February 17, 2015

USCHO.com Division I Men's Poll

February 16, 2015

	Team	(First Place Votes)	Record	Points	Last Poll
1	North Dakota	(35)	20- 6-3	980	2
2	Minnesota State	(10)	23- 6-2	909	1
3	Boston University		19- 5-4	902	3
4	Michigan Tech	( 5)	24- 7-1	856	5
5	Nebraska-Omaha		17- 8-3	798	4
6	Miami		18- 9-1	752	7
7	Minnesota-Duluth		18-11-1	693	6
8	Bowling Green		18- 7-5	617	8
9	Denver		16-10-2	557	9
10	Boston College		18-10-2	528	10
11	Quinnipiac		20- 8-2	526	13
12	Providence		18-10-2	466	11
13	Yale		15- 7-3	362	15
14	Harvard		13- 8-3	336	14
15	Michigan		16-10-0	258	12
16	Massachusetts-Lowell		17-10-4	248	16
17	Minnesota		16- 9-3	237	NR
18	Vermont		17-11-2	183	17
19	Robert Morris		20- 5-5	131	18
20	St. Lawrence		16-11-3	39	20
Others receiving votes: Northeastern 29, Penn State 27, Colgate 23, St. Cloud State 22, Bentley 6, Merrimack 6, Bemidji State 3, Western Michigan 3, Notre Dame 2, Mercyhurst 1.

 

I wonder if there will be streamer and balloons in the UND coaches’ office today.  J

NCHC Hockey: Two Reviews, One Wrong, One Right

When the NCHC was formed, the league was going to do things better. That was one of the premises of breaking away from the WCHA schools. That status quo was no longer acceptable and needed to be changed.

One of the big selling points of hiring head of officials Don Adam was that the NCHC was going to work on training their on-ice officials. Almost two years into this new league, the NCHC is still plagued by many of the same issues that were front and center in the in the old WCHA. You have a great on-ice product that's officiated by sub-standard officials.

In my opinion, the NCHC has officials that shouldn't be reffing games at this level. This past weekend, NCHC officials Timm Walsh, Nick Krebsbach were absolutely brutal. Words can't explain what transpired. So, you have a video to watch.


First, you have a legitimate goal that should have counted. As you can see by watching the video, that the puck was clearly over the line.

There's no reason that goal shouldn't have counted. Watch the video, the puck was clearly over the line and in the net. The argument of the ref was going to blow the whistle, doesn't cut it in this instance.You have a puck that's not frozen and in play. If the refs were going to blow the whistle, there's no reason to spend five minutes reviewing the play. Right?

The second play, the puck is clearly not in the net and the refs take quite a bit of time to review the play.

UND vs. DU lines - Update On Student Who Interupted Moment of Silence

No changes to the lineup from last night. I guess you really don't to screw with success.

Also, update on the student that so rudely and selfishly interrupted the moment of silence last night. He's banned from the Ralph for the rest of the season. That's a good start. He was also cited for minor in possession.

Mutual respect is the cornerstone of any great rivalry; proud to have UND as 1 of our biggest rivals & appreciate their support this weekend
— Denver Hockey (@DU_Hockey) February 14, 2015

@jackbreen94 don't Apologize to me. Apologize to @DUCoachMonty @DU_Hockey.
— Drake Caggiula (@drakecaggiula) February 14, 2015

I'm told that the person who yelled during the moment of silence yesterday was immediately ejected from the building by security.
— Brad E. Schlossman (@SchlossmanGF) February 14, 2015

That fan also has been banned from the building for the remainder of the year.
— Brad E. Schlossman (@SchlossmanGF) February 14, 2015

Related articles

• UND Hockey: Moron Ruins Moment of Silence at the Ralph(ndgoon.blogspot.com)

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• North Dakota and Denver set to Battle(insidehockey.com)

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UND Hockey: Moron Ruins Moment of Silence at the Ralph

Tonight, during the pre-game ceremony, the UND hockey team and the REA had a moment of silence to honor DU head coach Jim Montgomery who lost his father earlier in the day. During the moment of silence for coach Montgomery, some, buffoon/moron from the student section decided to yell drunken barrage of profanity.

I hope this clown learned something tonight, have some class. It's not always about you. You disgraced the  University. As an alumnus of the University of North Dakota, I am embarrassed.

That person/moron that did this should be ashamed of themselves. You're stupidity and selfishness makes us look like a bunch of beer swilling, unwashed morons. Absolutely disgusting. They should ban you from the Ralph for the rest of the year. I agree with the UND players, what moron.

And to the idiot that yelled during the moment of silence. Give your head a shake. And never enter the Ralph again.
— Drake Caggiula (@drakecaggiula) February 14, 2015

Deepest condolences to Coach Montgomery! Thoughts and prayers with you and your family. #hockeyfamily
— Drake Caggiula (@drakecaggiula) February 14, 2015

(3/3) Unnecessary words. That is not how we conduct ourselves here. Sorry @DU_Hockey, and we are extremely sorry for your loss.
— Mark MacMillan (@EasyMac_16) February 14, 2015

(2/3) We respect the moment of silence offered at the Ralph today and are sincerely sorry about the individual that decided to shout some...
— Mark MacMillan (@EasyMac_16) February 14, 2015

(1/3) Wins and losses aside, the hockey community is a close family. On behalf of @UNDmhockey, our deepest condolences to @DUCoachMonty...
— Mark MacMillan (@EasyMac_16) February 14, 2015

NCHC Hockey: A look at the Standings

The standing will probably change a few times before the season is over, you can bet on it. But UND takes the lead for now. Stay tuned, developing.

UND vs. DU Game One Lines - Links

Pretty much the same lines as last time out.

UND and DU Set to Faceoff http://t.co/DABryDmbwz pic.twitter.com/nWno12njb4
— The Hockey Writers (@TheHockeyWriter) February 12, 2015

North Dakota vs. Denver, A Series Preview - http://t.co/VOr88BmWoT #NHL pic.twitter.com/45th78CNZF
— THW Hockey (@HockeyLinks) February 13, 2015

Fans can vote for UND's Mark MacMillan and Nick Mattson for the Senior CLASS Award: http://t.co/I7EkM1C16R #UNDproud pic.twitter.com/sWqcdUhBZb
— North Dakota MHockey (@UNDmhockey) February 13, 2015

http://t.co/e4GQr5zK1P has a piece on Brock Boeser's commitment to UND http://t.co/RGWU1DVma5
— Brad E. Schlossman (@SchlossmanGF) February 13, 2015

During Jim's absence, we have the utmost confidence in Dave Carle's ability to lead our student-athletes this weekend as they face UND (2/2)
— Ryan Peck (@Ryan_Peck) February 13, 2015

UND vs. DU weekend, Friday Morning Links

DU head coach Jim Montgomery tweeted this today on Twitter. Our thoughts and prayers go to him and his family. Per the Denver Pioneers: Dave Carle will be serving as Denver's head coach this evening following the loss of James Montgomery, Sr., 80, in Montreal this morning.

The man who impacted my life the most has passed away. I will miss our daily phone calls and the wisdom and love you gave me. Love you Dad
— Jim Montgomery (@DUCoachMonty) February 13, 2015

Hockey Links

North Dakota vs. Denver, A Series Preview

UND vs. DU, College Hockey’s Hatfields and McCoys

DU Pioneers' Nolan Zajac eagerly awaiting series at North Dakota

First, the Fargo West Regional is sold out, the NCAA won't need to make adjustment for attendance. Also, Michigan more than likely, will be going to the Midwest Regional in South Bend, Indiana. You can probably bet on that one. Five weeks out, and we can make some geographical swaps with regional attendance in mind

Of course they are... Right? Notre Dame Coach Jeff Jackson Denies Hockey East Exit Rumors

B.C. Interruption: NCAA Hockey Bracketology, February 12, 2015

More challenges ahead for Mavericks

Red Star and Sickle: Minnesota Duluth women's hockey coach Shannon Miller says dismissal violates Title IX

THA Schloss is predicting 5of-6 points for UND this weekend: Friday morning reading

Stoney Sioux: Friday Gameday: No Love Loss

UND Hockey Teams Feature Two Outstanding Goaltenders

UND Gets Highly Sought Recruit Brock Boeser

Today, the University of North Dakota got some very good news on the recruiting front. Brock Boeser from Minnesota has committed to UND. Boeser is a highly sought recruit and was also considering Wisconsin, Minnesota-Duluth and Minnesota. (Elite Prospects)

“@BBoeser16: Really excited to play college hockey at the University of North Dakota." Huge get for NoDak; great 2015 draft prospect
— Ryan Kennedy (@THNRyanKennedy) February 13, 2015

Really excited to play college hockey at the University of North Dakota. Can't wait to call this place home! #sioux pic.twitter.com/TaSgLypiiW
— Brock Boeser (@BBoeser16) February 13, 2015

UND set to Take on Pioneers

Gwozdecky is gone, rivalry is not

While you’re checking out some of those YouTube videos, you’ll probably find a video of head coach George Gwozdecky walking across the ice after getting kicked out of a game.

While coach Gwozdecky is no longer at Denver, he wasn’t re-signed after the 2012-13 season. The rivalry hasn’t cooled off in his absence.

If you look over the record books, you will see that there’s a lot of history between the two teams. In their last 15 games against the Pioneers, UND has a 9-5-1 record. Four of those games have been in the playoffs. UND won all four games.

Historically, the games have been entertaining and full of drama. The players from both teams love playing in the series. It’s one of those series that the UND players look forward to playing in.

“I think it’s such a great rivalry between two programs,” sophomore defenseman Troy Stecher said. “It’s an up paced game. Their D-Core is pretty offensive. We like to think that our D-Core can jump up in the play as well. I think it’s going to be a weekend of chances going back and forth.”

“It’s a tradition I think or a history thing,” senior caption Steph Pattyn said. “It’s definitely a rivalry. Something that has always been. A lot of it has to do with the history of the two programs. Denver is a good program. The coaches definitely instill in us to go hard this weekend.”

(Read the rest of the story)

UND vs. DU, College Hockey's Hatfields and McCoys - http://t.co/ys06MZTB4D #NHL pic.twitter.com/R1pqBlI13p
— THW Hockey (@HockeyLinks) February 12, 2015

The Pios are practicing at Joy Burns Arena this morning prior to making the trek to North Dakota later today #DUvsUND pic.twitter.com/QaSgcrrEko
— Denver Hockey (@DU_Hockey) February 12, 2015

UND Hockey: Dave Hakstol mic'd up

I am not so sure that head coach Dave Hakstol would have done this 10 year ago, or even five years ago. I still watch with interest as Hakstol is interviewed on the bench during a hockey game.

Antoine Roussel Has Hearing for Dirty X-Check on Adam McQuaid

Hockey is an emotional game. Things happen at a very high rate of speed. I am sure that the fans that hate the Boston Bruins will say that Adam McQuaid tried to hit Antoine Roussel with a dirty check and missed.

Whatever! These same fans will say that McQuaid deserved it because he plays for the Boston Bruins.

I don't think there's any way that you can excuse what Roussel did, this is a bush-league, dirty hit. Since Roussel has a phone hearing, his suspension will be under five games. I don't see how he escapes at least a two-game suspension for his.

Antoine Roussel To Have NHL Disciplinary Hearing For Cross Check On Adam McQuaid http://t.co/qxoFir8bXY
— NESN (@NESN) February 11, 2015

Minnesota Wild: Zucker and Carter on the IR

Last night’s win against the Vancouver Canucks proved to be very costly. The Wild lost Jason Zucker and Ryan Carter to upper-body injuries. Both players were placed on injured reserve.  

Michael Russo, Startribune – The Wild lost Zucker and Carter to upper-body injuries in the first period.

“We should not expect them back in the lineup in the near future,” coach Mike Yeo ominously said after the Wild’s sixth consecutive regulation win pulled the now 9th-place team (8-1-1 in its past 10 overall) within three points of a playoff spot and six points of Winnipeg heading into Tuesday’s game in northern Minnesota (Manitoba).

I’m told Carter was in a sling after the game and personally it looked to me that Zucker also sustained a shoulder injury. The Wild’s 18-goal scorer (17 even-strength goals) got jolted pretty good chasing a loose puck along the wall by defenseman Luca Sbisa. A few minutes before, Carter crashed hard into the boards after being checked by defenseman Yannick Weber.

The Wild had to use 10 forwards for 50-plus minutes tonight and did look like they started to get gassed late in the game. Jason Pominville credited coach Mike Yeo for helping navigate a convoluted bench as Yeo had to mix and match forward lines all night.

Losing Jason Zucker could prove costly for the Wild.  Zucker's 18 goals makes him the second leading goal scorer for the Minnesota Wild.

UND Second in USCHO.com Division I Men's Poll

February 09, 2015

	Team	(First Place Votes)	Record		Points	Last Poll
1	Minnesota State	(33)	23- 5-1		975	1
2	North Dakota	(11)	19- 6-2		938	2
3	Boston University	( 6)	18- 4-4		934	3
4	Nebraska-Omaha		16- 7-3		827	4
5	Michigan Tech		22- 7-1		795	5
6	Minnesota-Duluth		17-10-1		733	7
7	Miami		16- 9-1		652	8
8	Bowling Green		17- 6-5		651	8
9	Denver		16- 9-1		573	10
10	Boston College		17- 9-2		499	11
11	Providence		17- 9-2		480	13
12	Michigan		16- 8-0		448	14
13	Quinnipiac		18- 8-2		392	16
14	Harvard		12- 8-2		362	6
15	Yale		13- 7-3		273	15
16	Massachusetts-Lowell		16-10-3		246	12
17	Vermont		16-10-2		166	17
18	Robert Morris		20- 5-5		129	19
19	Penn State		15- 7-4		125	NR
20	St. Lawrence		16-10-2		111	NR
Others receiving votes: Minnesota 78, Colgate 49, Merrimack 42, Dartmouth 11, Western Michigan 5, St. Cloud State 3, Bentley 2, Bemidji State 1.