WCHA 2012-13 season preview

Originally posted at the Hockey Writers Combine.

The 2012-13 WCHA season is going to be a historic season. After this season, the WCHA is going to go through some major changes – the Minnesota Gophers and the Wisconsin Badgers will move to the newly formed Big Ten Hockey Conference and join their fellow Big Ten Conference schools the Penn State Nittany Lions, Ohio State Buckeyes, Michigan Wolverines and Michigan State.

Also set to leave the WCHA next season are the Colorado College Tigers, Denver Pioneers, University of Minnesota Duluth Dog, University of Nebraska Omaha, University of North Dakota and Saint Cloud State Huskies who are going to join the Miami University and Western Michigan in a newly formed league the National Collegiate Hockey Conference, Notre Dame is moving to the Hockey East.

We’re not done yet – the remaining CCHA and WCHA schools are going to form what some refer to as the nWCHA beginning for the 2013-14 season.  If your head is spinning – you’re not alone.

Here is how I think the WCHA is going to shake out this season.

1.) University of Minnesota –  During the 2011-12 season the Minnesota Gophers had what many would consider a pretty successful season, the Gophers (28-14-1 Overall – 20-8-0 1^st WCHA)  rebounded to win the MacNaughton Cup after suffering through three subpar seasons where they failed to make the NCAA tourney. During the 2011-12 season – the Minnesota Gophers made it all the way to the Frozen Four before being beaten soundly by the Boston College Eagles 6-1 in the Semi Finals.

With what the Gophers have lost from last season and with what the Gophers have coming in, I don’t think it’s unreasonable to have the Minnesota Golden Gophers penciled in to repeat for the league title and another trip to the Frozen Four. That being said, the Gophers are going to have the proverbial target on their back – every team in the league this season is going to be gunning for the Gophers. The heavily favored Gophers are going to be looking for a goaltender to fill the void left by the graduation of senior goaltender Kent Patterson.

Key returning players – Nick Bjugstad, forward (25g-17a—42pts), Zach Budish, forward (12g-23a—35pts), Erik Haula, forward (20g-29a—49pts), Kyle Rau, forward (18g-25a—43pts).

Key Losses – Kent Patterson, goaltender (.907 SV%, 2.32 GAA 28-14-1 record), Jake Hanson, forward (16g-22a—38pts), Taylor Mattson, forward (8g-13a—23pts).

Key Incoming Freshmen – Reilly Connor forward, Mike Reilly defenseman and Ryan Reilly forward, AJ Michaelson forward.

2.) University of North Dakota – The University of North Dakota, nickname to be determined later, (25-14-1 Overall – 16-11-0 4^th WCHA) won an unprecedented third Broadmoor Cup in a row and look to four peat before heading to the NCHC for the 2013-14 season.

Since 2005-06 season no other WCHA team has won more Broadmoor Cups than UND – UND has twice won three games in three days – two out of the last three seasons to win an unprecedented third Broadmoor Trophy in a row. During that run through the Final Five,  UND beat Saint Cloud State University, the University of Minnesota and Denver University in three consecutive days.

UND would travel to the Xcel Energy Center where it would beat the Western Michigan University Bronco 2-1 before losing the next night 5-2 in the Midwest Regional finals to the Minnesota Golden Gophers.
The University of North Dakota should also be a force to be reckoned with during the 2012-13 campaign – while UND loses Brock Nelson – Rocco Grimaldi is back after having season ending surgery. UND also has a pretty decent recruiting class to replace the players that graduated from last season.

Key returning players – Corbin Knight, forward (16g-24a—40pts), Danny Kristo, forward (19g-26—45pts), Carter Rowney, forward (18g-15a—33pts), Nick Mattson, defenseman (6g-13a—19pts), Dillon Simpson, defenseman (2g-16a—18pts).

Key Losses – Brock Nelson, Forward (28g-19a—47pts), Aaron Dell, goaltender (.900 SV%, 2.67 GAA 18-10-2 record), Ben Blood, defenseman (3g-18a—21pts).

Key incoming freshman/players – Rocco Grimaldi, forward (1g-1a—2pts), Jordan Schmaltz Defense, Zane Gothberg goaltender, Clarke Saunders (.906 SV%, 3.72 GAA, 2-23-1 record).

3.) University of Wisconsin – The Wisconsin Badgers had what Badgers fans could classify the 2011-12 campaign as a season to forget, (17-18-2 Overall – 11-15-2 10^th WCHA) as the Badgers missed the Final Five and traveled on the road for the first round of the playoffs and then lost in the first round of the WCHA playoffs to the Denver University Pioneers in three games. While the Badgers lost Justin Schultz to the NHL they didn’t lose many other players to the NHL.

Key Returning Players - Mark Zengerle, forward (13g-37a—50pts), Michael Mersch, forward (14g-16a—30pts), Tyrler Barnes, forward (11g-15a—26pts), John Ramage, defense (3g-7a—10pts), Jake McCabe, defense (3g-9a—12pts), Joel Rumpel, goalie (.919 SV%, 2.48 GAA, 12-12-2).

Key incoming players - Morgan Zulinick forward, Kevin Schulze defense, Nic Kerdiles Defense.
Key losses - Justin Schultz, defense (16g-28a—44pts).

4.) Denver University – The Denver Pioneers were picked to win the WCHA in 2011-12 in picked to finish first in all three WCHA preseason polls (25-14-4 Overall – 16-8-4 3^rd WCHA) Media, Writers and the coach’s polls). It would be four if you count the WCHA Blogger and Website Preseason Poll which also picked the Denver Pioneers to win the WCHA.

The Pioneers suffered an inordinate amount of injuries and really never got going and ended up under achieving – there are many talented players returning to the Pioneers but the losses of Jason Zucker and Drew Shore is going to be noticed on the ice this season. The Pioneers should battle for home ice and make the NCAA playoffs.

Key Losses – Drew Shore, forward (22g-31a—51pts), Jason Zucker, forward (22g-24a—46pts), Beau Bennett, forward 4g-9a—13pts), Luke Salazar, forward (12g-18a—30pts).

Key Returning Players – Nick Shore, forward (13g-28a—41pts), Shawn Ostrow, forward (11g-10a—21pts), Joey LaLeggia, defense (11g-27a—38pts), Ty Loney, forward (10g-11a—21pts).

Key Incoming Players – Dakota Mermis defense, Quentin Shore forward, Nolan Zajac defense, Gabe Levin forward, Grant Arnold forward.

5.) University of Minnesota Duluth – Last season the UMD Bulldogs (25-10-6 Overal – 16-7-5 2^nd WCHA) overpowered teams with their speed and offensive prowess. UMD was a very dangerous team even strength and the Bulldogs finished second nationally in offensive scoring. This season team will be talented; however, the Bulldog lineup is going to be looking to others to step up offensively after losing 160 points with the graduation of Jack Connolly, Travis Olesksuk and the with the signing of J.T. Brown. That’s not to say that the Cupboard is entirely bare either – Mike Seidel and Caleb Herbert look to fill the void for the Bulldogs. The Bulldogs should secure home ice for the WCHA playoffs and challenge for a top three finish in the WCHA standings.

Key Losses – Jack Connolly, forward (20g-40a—60pts), Travis Olesksuk, forward (21g-32a—53pts), J.T. Brown forward 24g23a—47, Brady Lamb defense (9g-22a—31pts).

Key Returning Players – Caleb Hebert, forward (14g-19a—33pts), Mike Seidel, forward (17g-13a—30pts).

Key Incoming Players – Austin Farley, forward, Tony Cameranesi, forward, Andy Welinski defense, Matt McNeely goalie, Austyn Young forward.

6.) Colorado College – At the start of last season, the Colorado College Tigers had great expectations for their season (26-13-3 – 15-12-1 – 5^th WCHA) but in the end the Tigers ended up under achieving causing Tigers fans to wonder what happened. There is some good news and bad news. The good news, this season the Tigers are going to be a relatively older squad as they return seven seniors and six juniors. The bad news the Tigers lost two of their top three forward from last year’s lineup to include their best forward Jaden Schwartz after he signed an entry level deal with the St. Louis Blues of the NHL.

Last season, Tigers junior goalie Joe Howe what many would classify as a rough season after having two pretty solid freshman and sophomore seasons. Look for Joe Howe to bounce back this season.
Key Losses – Jaden Schwartz,forward (15g-26a—41pts), Nick Dineen, forward (14g-12a—26pts), Gabe Guentzel, defense (4g-22a—26pts).

Key Returning Players – Rylan Schwartz, forward (23g-17a—40pts), Joe Howe, goalie (.882 SV%, 3.48 GAA 5-8-1), Josh Thorimbert, goalie (.924 SV%, 2.35 GAA 18-8-1).

Key Incoming Players – Hunter Fejes forward.

6.) Michigan Tech University – It would not be a stretch to say that the 2000’s have not been kind to the Michigan Tech Huskies. Under former head coach Jamie Russell, the Huskies had a combined record of 31-105-17 from 2007-11. Last year, the Tech Huskies were much improved team under first year head coach Mel Pearson and last season the Huskies topped their previous three season’s win total with a record of (16-19-4 Overall – 11-13-4 8^th WCHA).

I think it’s safe to say that, Mel Pearson has turned the Huskies’ ship around and has the program going in the right direction, after taking over the reins from former head coach Jamie Russell.

Pearson’s returned the Huskies to the Final Five after the Huskies knocked off the Colorado College Tigers in the first round of the WCHA playoffs to advance to the Final Five. The Huskies magical run ended a day later when they lost in the quarter final game to the Denver Pioneers. In one season, Pearson changed the Huskies fortunes.   The Huskies once thought of as an easy win under Pearson have become a tough team to play against.

Key Losses – Brett Olson, forward (10g-20a—30pts), Jordan Baker, forward 10g-18a—28pts), Alex MacLeod, forward (8g-11a—19pts), Josh Robinson, goalie (.909 SV%, 2.83 GAA, 15-14-4).
Key Returning Players – David Johnstone, forward (11g-18a—29pts), Ryan Furne, forward (12g-12a—24pts), Kevin Genoe goalie (880 SV%, 2.71 GAA, 1-5-0).

Key Incoming Players – Jujhar Khaira forward, Alex Petan forward, Malcolm Gould forward, Jamie Phillips goalie, Pheonix Copley goalie.

8. University of Nebraska Omaha – I am kind of torn on this team.   I’m not sure where they should be ranked after the Mavericks had a disappointing season (14-18-6 overall – 11-12-5 7^th WCHA). The Mavericks had high hopes for the 2011-12 WCHA season but under achieved.

The Mavericks ended their season on a disappointing note when the Mavericks failed to gain home ice for the WCHA playoffs – traveled to Saint Cloud for the first round of the WCHA playoffs – lost the first round season to end their season. The Mavericks in their two seasons in the WCHA, have failed to make the WCHA Final Five – losing in the first round of both seasons to the Beavers and Huskies, respectively.
Picking the Mavericks finish is a tough task this season because they’re a bit of enigma this season. The Mavericks on paper are a relatively young team and have five freshman and eight sophomores and only three seniors. Also, the Mavericks have a pretty solid incoming recruiting class coming in this fall that could fill in the void left by this offseason departures.

The offseason was not very kind to the Red Mavericks as they lost three of top players – two of which signed professional contracts, Terry Broadhurst and Jayson Megna and a third player, their sophomore goalie, Ryan Massa, decided to take the year off for personal reasons.

Key Losses – Terry Broadhurst, forward (16g-20a—36pts), Jayson Megna, forward (13g-18a—31pts), Ryan Massa goalie, (.914 SV%, 2.60 GAA, 7-8-2).

Key Returning Players – Matt White, forward (17g-23a—40pts) Ryan Walters, forward (10g-15a—25pts), Bryce Aneloski, defense (6g-14g—20pts).

Key Incoming Players – Anthony Stolarz goalie, Brian Cooper defense, Nick Seeler defense, Tanner Lane  forward,  Aaron Pearce forward.

9. Saint Cloud State University – Traditionally, the Saint Cloud State University Huskies tend to be in the top half of the WCHA and challenge for a top four finish in the WCHA.  Last season the SCSU Huskies (17-17-5 overall – 12-12-5 6^th WCHA) were a .500 team that was hit hard by the injury bug. The shorthanded Huskies made a late season surged and limped into the WCHA playoffs where their season ended in semifinals of the WCHA Final Five by the University of North Dakota.

Key Losses – David Eddy, forward (9g-16a—25pts), Travis Novak, forward (12g-15—27pts), Jared Festler 15g-19a—34pts), Mike Lee, goalie (.930 SV%, 2.23 GAA, 8-6-2).

Key Returning Players – Ben Hanowski, forward (23g-20a—43pts), Nic Dowd, forward (11g-13a—23pts), Andrew Prochno, defense (5g-24—29pts).

Key Incoming Players – Jimmy Murray forward, Jonny Brodzinski forward, Rasmus Reijola goaltender.

10. Bemidji State University – Last season the hard working Beavers’ (17-18-3 overall – 11-14-3 9^th WCHA) late season stumble – in which the Beavers lost four out of six games going into the playoffs  – prevented the Beavers from an upper division finish in the WCHA standings – the Beavers look to improve on their 9^th place finish.

This is what Head Coach Tom Serratore had to say at the end of last season after his Beavers were eliminated by the University of North Dakota in the first round of the WCHA playoffs.

“I thought it was a great season.  Everyone gauges their season differently, but I mean, this is a tough league, we know it’s a tough league.  We had 17 wins.  We were over five hundred in the regular season. We had more points than we had last year.  Those are the things we have look at right there.  Again, we made progress and we were hard to play against.  Again, I thought it was a great season.  Obviously we didn’t want it to end this way.  We wanted to advance to the WCHA Final Five, but it didn’t happen. But, that didn’t take anything away from the season we had.”

Going forward you can bet that Beavers head coach will have them ready to play and as usual, you can count on the Bemidji State Beavers being a small, quick and tenacious team that will get pucks deep and will fore-check the opposition relentlessly.  No team should look past the Beavers this season.

Key Losses – Shea Walters, forward (12g-14—26pts), Brad Hunt, defense (5g-21a—26pts) ,  Dan Bakela goaltender, (.911 SV%, 2.64 GAA, 11-13-2).

Key Returning Players – Jordan George, forward (19g-12a—31pts), Aaron McLeod, forward (9g-14—23pts), Brance Orban, forward (9g-13a—24pts).

Key Incoming Players – Markus Gerbrandt forward, Brad Robbins forward, Cory Ward forward, James Hansen defense, Graeme McCormack defense.

11. Minnesota State University Mankato – Last season the Minnesota State Mavericks experienced a rash of injuries that left their squad devastated and were never able to get going. The Mavericks had two of the more talented rookies Matt Leitner and Jean-Paul Lafontaine and lead the Mavericks in points.

After the season, Minnesota State decided to make a change in coaching, and removed Troy Jutting as the head coach of the Mavericks, who had been the head coach of the Mavericks for twelve seasons (2000-12 season), taking over for Don Brose who retired after the 1998-1999 season.  Under Jutting, Minnesota State had not made the Final Five or the NCAA tourney since the 2002-03 season. Minnesota State hired University of Nebraska Omaha assistant coach Mike Hastings to replace Jutting.  The Former head coach Troy Jutting has since been hired as an assistant coach at UNO to replace Mike Hastings.

Key Losses – Michael Dorr, forward (8g-11a—19pts), Justin Jokinen, forward (3g-10a—13pts), Austin Lee, goalie (.910 SV%, 3.07 GAA, 5-16-1).

Key Returning Players – Matt Leitner, forward (11g-18a—29pts), Jean-Paul Lafontatine, forward (13g-15a—28pts) Ericah Hayes, forward (13g-11a—24pts), Phil Cook, goalie (.887 SV%, 3.55 GAA, 7-8-0).
Key Incoming Players – Teddy Blueger forward, Bryce Gervais forward, Brett Knowles forward, Nick Buchanan Defense.

12. University of Anchorage Alaska - Last season hopes were high for the Seawolves after they had eliminated the Minnesota Golden Gophers in the first round of the WCHA playoffs and qualified for the WCHA Final Five – before losing in the quarter Finals to the Colorado College Tigers 4-2.

After having high hopes for the season – last season ended up being a season to forget for the Seawolves and their fans as they returned to the cellar of the WCHA (9-25-2 overall – 5-22-1 12^th WCHA). The second half of the season ended up being very rough for the Seawolves as they went a dismal 3-15-0 down the stretch after the first of the year – winning just three games in last 18 games.

Seawolves fans are expecting more out of them this season, led by Dave Shyiak who has a 76-152-26 in seven seasons with the Seawolves.

The Seawolves have large incoming freshman class that includes eight incoming players – including three players from local Anchorage Alaska area.

Key Losses – Mitch Bruijsten, forward (8g-8a—16pts), Eric Scheid, forward (6g-9—15pts), Curtis Leinweber, defense (9g-8a—17pts).

Key Returning Players – Jordan Kwas, forward (4g-10a—14pts), Scott Warner, defense (2g-13a—15pts).

Key Incoming Players – Blake Tatchell forward, Haden Trupp forward, Blake Leask defenseman, Michael Matyas goaltender.

Related articles

• Pre-Season Predictions (by Sioux 7)

Bracketbuster #1 (Redwing77)

Ok, the NCAAs just begun and well.... some upsets are already happening.

Ferris State vs. Denver:

I chose: Denver
Result? 2-1 Ferris State

I thought Denver would come out firing but apparently Ferris State knew how to handle it. Ferris State wins only their second NCAA tourney game EVER. However, in the end, I think this game was at least a good one. The others? Not so much.

Union vs. Michigan State

I chose: MSU
Result? 3-1 Union

Union has played few challenging opponents. Michigan State has played barely well enough to get in. I guess it stands to reason then, since neither team is clear cut as a favorite, that you'd go with seeding, but I just do not believe that the ECACHL deserves as much respect as the East Coast media gives it. If Union had to play a team like Western Michigan in the opening round, I'm not so sure they win. That being said, in the last 5 years, the ECACHL is 5-0 in the opening round of the NCAA Tourney. And they are 0-5 in the second round. I'd say that's going to continue but...

UMass Lowell vs. Miami

I chose: Miami
Result? 4-3 UMass in OT

Miami gave up a Powerplay, shorthanded, and 2 5 on 5 goals. They looked absolutely PATHETIC for the first 45 minutes of the game. They keep trying to make pretty plays to score goals while UMass keeps trying to score goals merely by jumping on Miami mistakes and just throwing the puck on net. Knapp has looked pathetic. I cannot believe that Blasi is kept him in. Goal #1 was the only goal Knapp wasn't at least partially at fault for. Goal #2 was on a short handed breakaway that beat him 5 hole. 5 hole goals coming head on is just a sign of poor anticipation. It should be the hardest goal in hockey to get unless the goaltender is moving laterally. Goal #3 was plain and simple out of position crap goal bad goaltending. Yeah, it was 2 on 1 but it beat him short side when Knapp had plenty of time to get into position. He correctly anticipated the pass but he just did not cover the post.

Luckily for Miami, they ended up tying the game. They went to OT and then.... Knapp rears his ugly head again! Wetmore scores a goal that NEVER EVER EVER would have gone in had Knapp held the post. He ends up making the initial save off his right side and bounces back to Wetmore who taps it through Knapp and into the net. It was a squibbler and barely got in but it got in. That means, ladies and gentlemen, that 2 of UMass' 4 goals were WEAK, 1 was a fluke, and the other was perhaps somewhat unavoidable.

Tough for Miami to lose in the first round but.... any half-assed decent playoff team worth its salt would have beaten Miami anyways. Can't expect to suck for 45 minutes, be given a 5 minute major at the end of regulation and 1:26 of it in OT, fail to score on it, and still expect to win the game. Ok, ok, to be fair, Miami did a good job in the regulation side of the major powerplay and Doug Carr saved UMass' bacon but every other Miami Powerplay up til then was a Clinic in awful special teams.

Goon may disagree but I believe this marks the downturn of Miami. They've peaked. Sure, they'll get their share of talent, but I think this current squad has ended its stretch run of post season dominance. They'll have to regroup (or reload as it may) and see if they can catch another great run. They're not going to get anywhere with this current squad without some serious infusion of talent.

UMass and Union in the Final? SNOOOOOOOOORE!!!!!! I wonder where this Regional ranks in the list of "worst regionals in NCAA Tourney history?"

If UND being a #2 seed would have gotten them into this regional, they should have thrown the WCHA title game.

Michigan vs. Cornell
I predicted: Michigan
Result? 3-2 Cornell in OT

This game was pretty good... if you enjoyed special teams. We had one ejection (contact to the head major on Cornell) and a barrel full of minors. I'm not sure what Shafer had to say postgame but it probably won't be much because Cornell won. Had they lost though....

I'm not sure what to think about this game overall. Cornell plays a GOD AWFUL style of hockey (one of the major reasons why I despised the Wild under Risebrough/Lemaire). Sure, the trap works, but it makes for a pisspoor hockey game to watch... which I think everyone knew because either everyone sat on the Camera side of the arena or the arena was MAYBE 40% capacity. It just wasn't fun. Michigan, if you consider scoring chances, had the more dominant game but Cornell put the game away in OT.

Rarely do I root for Cinderella stories such as UMass or Ferris State but... I'll be rooting for them tomorrow because I don't believe the trap has any place in bigtime hockey and I wouldn't want boring hockey in Tampa.

So... let's hope no more surprises!

Redwing77's NCAA Tourney Bracket Pick'em Part Two

Here's the final installment. I'm not going to predict the Frozen Four outcomes until the teams have been set.

Midwest Regional:

This is about as difficult as the West. It features Michigan, Ferris State, Denver, and Cornell. Since I haven't seen 3 of the 4 teams in this bracket play, I'm going to be brief.

Ferris State vs. DU:

Ferris State is a Cinderella story. They came out of nowhere to choke away the CCHA tourney by losing in the first round.

DU is a tough team mad as all get out after getting embarrassed vs. UND in the WCHA Tourney championship.

Prediction: Feel good Ferris State. You made the tourney. Bad news: DU destroys you.

Michigan vs. Cornell:

SNOOOOOOOOOOOZEFEST. Cornell historically plays a boring style of hockey. Michigan is cold and calculating. If Shawn Hunwick shows up like he did vs. UND a year ago, Michigan wins easy. If he lets in weak goals like he did vs. WMU, then oops.

Prediction: Michigan wins.

Regional Final: Michigan vs. DU. I think DU stuns the #1 seed in this Regional.

East Regional:

This is the easiest bracket in the tourney by a LONG SHOT. If you could believe in a team like Union, it would be easy to think they'll walk into the Frozen Four however....

Union vs. Michigan State:

Union is a team that hasn't really played many quality teams. They've played a few ranked opponents. They've played nonconference ranked opponents in DU, CC, WMU, Michigan, and Merrimack. Against those opponents, they have a 2-2-2 record. Their wins were against Merrimack and Michigan.

Michigan State is an interesting story in that they squeaked in by the hairs on their chinny chin chin. If it was any other opponent I wouldn't give Michigan State a sniff at a win.

However....I'm not sold on either team doing anything, but since I have to pick a team...

Prediction: I predict upset city. Michigan State wins in OT. Union becomes the only #1 to fall in the first round.

Miami vs. Mass Lowell:

UMass is another Cinderella story. They've seemingly come out of nowhere. And that's where they're going in this NCAA tourney.

Miami: Been here done it before. Miami has been very inconsistent looking downright pathetic vs. WMU in the CCHA tourney. However, Blasi always watches his team drop one in their shorts before the NCAAs and well, things turn out alright.

Prediction: Miami wins.

Regional Final: I may not be sold on Union/MSU outcome but I am sold on this: If Miami beats UMass Lowell, they go to the Frozen Four.

I also predict that this Regional will be the most poorly attended.

Frozen Four Wrap Up:

Using my predictions: I think the final four teams will be BC, Minnesota, Miami, and DU.

Since I'm not sold on any teams but BC and Miami listed above, I'll wait until the Frozen Four is set to make my predictions.

UND vs. DU Series Notes

Image via Wikipedia
The University of North Dakota  Fighting Sioux travel to Denver University to play the Pioneers at Magness Arena February 24-25, 2012.

Game Time: 9:07 pm CT Friday and 8:07 pm CT Saturday Night

Records and Rankings: University of North Dakota Fighting Sioux (17-11-3 overall, 13-10-1 WCHA); The Fighting Sioux are ranked 14th in the USCHO poll and 12th in the USA Today Poll. North Dakota took three of four points in their weekend series with Michigan Tech University  (4-2 W, 1-1 T). Official Release

Denver Pioneers (18-10-4, 13-7-4 WCHA) are ranked 9^th in the USCHO Poll and 10^th in the USA Today Poll. The Pioneers split their weekend series with the Wisconsin Badgers (3-0 W, 2-5 L). Denver is 8-2-1 in their last 11 games. Official Release

Series History:  The University of North Dakota Fighting Sioux leads the all-time series against the Denver Pioneers 130-115-8 (.535). UND has a record of 49-66-3 against the DU in Denver. Fighting Sioux head coach Dave Hakstol’s teams have a 11-14-1 record against the Denver Pioneers. The Fighting Sioux have won four of the last five games they have played against DU 4-1-0. UND was 3-1-0 against DU last season.

Radio:  UND 96.1 (KQHT-FM) – The Fox.  

Webcast: There will be no webcasts this weekend.

TV Friday: NBC Sports Network – 603 DirecTV

TV Saturday: Root Sports Rocky Mountain – 683 DirecTV

Players to Watch:

For UND: Forwards: Danny Kristo (14g-19a—33pts), Corbin Knight (11g-19a—30pts) and Brock Nelson (20g-15a—35pts), Carter Rowney (14g-9a—23pts). Defense: Nick Mattson (5g-11a—16pts), Dillon Simpson, (1g-13a—14pts), Ben Blood (2g-12a—14pts).  Goaltenders: Aaron Dell .890 save percentage and a 2.90 goals against average. Brad Eidsness .926 save percentage and a 1.92 goals against average.

UND Injuries: Forward Rocco Grimaldi is out (season knee surgery), Brendan O’Donnell out (season ending surgery), Derek Rodwell is out (season shoulder surgery).

For DU  Forwards: Jason Zucker (17g-20a—37pts), Drew Shore (18g-24a—42pts), Nick Shore (10g-19a—22pts) Luke Salazar (8g-13a—21pts) Defense: Joey LaLeggia (10g-23a—33pts), Jon Lee (3g-9a—12pts)  Paul Phillips (1g-8a—9pts)  Goaltender: Sam Brittain .923 save percentage and a 2.51 goals against average.

Other games in the WCHA: Colorado College at Minnesota Duluth, Minnesota at Nebraska Omaha, Wisconsin at Bemidji State, Michigan Tech at Saint Cloud State. Non-Conference Friday: Alaska at Alaska Anchorage. Saturday: Alaska Anchorage at Alaska. Idle Minnesota State.

Related articles

• MTU vs. UND series Notes (ndgoon.blogspot.com)
• Michigan Tech vs. North Dakota Series Notes (insidehockey.com)
• UND vs. UMD Series Notes (insidehockey.com)
• Chambers; Stakes are high in University of Denver-North Dakota hockey series (ndgoon.blogspot.com)
• WCHA Power Rankings - February 21 (insidehockey.com)
• Goon's WCHA Power Rankings 2/19/2012 (ndgoon.blogspot.com)
• Eidsness leads UND past MTU 4-2 (insidehockey.com)
• The Gloves are off UND vs. DU. - College Hockey's version of the Hatfield's and McCoy's (ndgoon.blogspot.com)

Goon's WCHA Power Rankings 2/19/2012

Image via Wikipedia

This is my weekly WCHA Power Rankings for INSIDE HOCKEY, Zack Friedli from Hockey State of Mind and I do a weekly WCHA Power Rankings.

1. Minnesota Duluth – (14-6-4 WCHA, 20-7-5) The Bulldogs took three of four points (4-2 W, 4-4 T) from the Minnesota State Mavericks this past weekend in Mankato. This weekend the Bulldogs entertain the Colorado College Tigers.

2. Minnesota – (17-7-0 WCHA, 21-11-1) The Gophers swept (3-0 W, 4-1 W) the Bemidji State Beavers this past weekend in Minneapolis. This weekend the Gophers travel to Omaha Nebraska to play the UNO Mavericks.

3. Denver – (13-7-4 WCHA, 18-10-4) The Pioneers Split (3-0 W, 2-5 L) their weekend series with the Wisconsin Badgers in Madison. This weekend the Pioneers return home to play the University of North Dakota Fighting Sioux. 

3. North Dakota – (13-10-1, 17-11-3) The Fighting Sioux took three of four points (4-2 W, 1-1 T) from the Michigan Tech Huskies this weekend in Grand Forks. This weekend the Fighting Sioux travel to Denver to play the Pioneers. With a sweep of the Pioneers and UND would pass the Pioneers in the standings. 

5. Colorado College – (13-10-1 WCHA, 16-12-2) This Tigers split (4-3 W, 3-5 L) their weekend series with the Mavericks in Colorado Springs. This weekend the Tigers travel to Duluth to play the Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs. 

6. Nebraska-Omaha – (11-5-5 WCHA, 14-12-6) The Mavericks split (3-4 L, 5-3 W) their weekend series with the C.C. Tigers in Colorado Springs, Colorado. This weekend the Mavericks entertain the Gophers in Omaha. 

7. Michigan Tech – (10-10-4 WCHA, 13-15-1) The Tech Huskies took one point (2-4 L, 1-1 T) in their weekend series with the Fighting Sioux in Grand Forks. The Tech Huskies entertain the Saint Cloud State Huskies in Houghton. 

8. St. Cloud State – (10-11-3 WCHA, 13-15-4) The Huskies split (2-3 L O.T., 8-3 W) their weekend series with the Anchorage Alaska Seawolves in Saint Cloud.   This weekend the Saint Cloud State Huskies make the trek to Houghton Michigan to play the Huskies. 

9. Bemidji State – (9-12-3 WCHA, 15-14-3) The Beavers were swept (0-3 L, 1-4 L) in Minneapolis by the Minnesota Gophers. The Beavers look to get back on track when they entertain the Wisconsin Badgers in Bemidji. The Badgers are 1-8-1 on the road in ten games this season. 

10. Wisconsin – (8-14-2 WCHA, 13-15-2) the Wisconsin Badgers split their weekend series (0-3 L, 5-2 W) with the Denver Pioneers in Madison and broke a five game losing streak with a victory over the Pioneers on Saturday night. This week the Badgers take their unimpressive 1-8-1 road record to Bemidji where they will play the Bemidji State Beavers. 

11. Minnesota State – (8-16-2 WCHA, 12-20-2) The Mavericks took one point (2-4 L, 4-4 T) in their weekend series with Minnesota Duluth. This weekend the Mavericks are idle. 

12.  Alaska-Anchorage – (5-20-1 WCHA, 8-20-2) The Seawolves split (3-2 W O.T., 3-8 L) their weekend series with the Saint Cloud State Huskies in Saint Cloud. This weekend the Seawolves have a home and home series with their cross-state rival the University of Alaska Nanooks in the Governor’s Cup.

Related articles

• Goon's WCHA Power Rankings 2/12/2012 (ndgoon.blogspot.com)
• Goon's WCHA Power Rankings 2/5/2012 (ndgoon.blogspot.com)
• Goon's WCHA Power Rankings 1/29/2012 (ndgoon.blogspot.com)
• Goon's WCHA Power Rankings 1/22/2012 (ndgoon.blogspot.com)
• Goon's WCHA Power Rankings 1/15/2012 (ndgoon.blogspot.com)

Goon's WCHA Power Rankings 2/12/2012

Image via WikipediaThis is my weekly WCHA Power Rankings for INSIDE HOCKEY, Zack Friedli from Hockey State of Mind and I do a weekly WCHA Power Rankings.

1.  Minnesota Duluth – (13-6-3 WCHA, 19-7-4) The Bulldogs split with the UND Fighting Sioux this past weekend (1-3 L, 5-4 W).  This weekend the Bulldogs travel to Minnesota State to play the Mavericks in Mankato.

2. Denver – (12-6-4 WCHA, 17-9-4). The Denver Pioneers swept the Minnesota Gophers in Denver this past weekend (5-3 W, 4-3 W O.T.)  This weekend the Pioneers travel to Wisconsin to take on the struggling Badgers who are winless in their last four games.

3. North Dakota – (12-10-0, 16-11-2) The University of North Dakota split with the Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs (3-1 W, 4-5 L). The Fighting Sioux return home to entertain the resurgent MTU Huskies at home this weekend.

4. Minnesota – (15-7-0 WCHA, 19-11-1). The Minnesota Gophers were swept by the Denver Pioneers this past weekend in Denver (3-5 L, 4-5 L O.T.) The Gophers entertain the smoking hot Bemidji State Beavers at Mariucci Arena this weekend.

5 Colorado College – (12-9-1 WCHA, 15-11-2) The Tigers were swept by the Bemidji State Beavers this past weekend in Bemidji (2-4 L, 1-4 L). The Tigers return home to play the University of Nebraska Omaha Mavericks.

6. Nebraska-Omaha – (10-7-5 WCHA, 13-11-6) The Mavericks took three point against the Michigan Tech Huskies (3-3 T, 4-0 W) in Houghton, Michigan this past weekend. The Mavericks travel to Colorado Springs to play the Tigers this weekend.

Tie – 7. Michigan Tech – (10-9-3 WCHA, 13-14-3) The Michigan Tech Huskies  took  one point this weekend against the University of Nebraska Omaha Mavericks (3-3 T, 0-4 L). This weekend the Tech Huskies make the trek down highway 2 to play the University of North Dakota Fighting Sioux.

Tie – 7. Bemidji State – (9-10-3 WCHA, 15-12-3) The Beavers swept the Colorado College Tigers this past weekend in Bemidji (4-2 W, 4-1 W). This weekend the Beavers travel to Minneapolis to play the Minnesota Gophers. The Beavers are 4-1-1 in their last six games.

9. St. Cloud State – (9-10-3 WCHA, 12-14-4) The Huskies were Idle this past weekend.  This weekend the Huskies entertain the  Anchorage Alaska Seawolves who have won one game in 11.

10. Wisconsin – (7-13-2 WCHA, 12-14-2) The Wisconsin Badgers were off this past weekend. Ironically, the idle Badgers actually fell to 11^th place in the WCHA with the Minnesota State’s sweep of the Seawolves. That being said, the Badgers have two games in hand on the Mavericks and entertain the Denver Pioneers this weekend at the Kohl Center. The Badgers look to break a four game losing streak against the Pioneers.

11. Minnesota State – (8-15-1 WCHA, 12-19-1) The Minnesota State Mavericks swept the University of Alaska Anchorage Seawolves (3-2 W, 2-1 W). This weekend the Mavericks entertain the University of Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs in Mankato.

12.  Alaska-Anchorage – (4-19-1 WCHA, 7-19-2) The Seawolves were swept by the Minnesota State Mavericks in Anchorage Alaska (2-3 L, 1-2 L). It would be an understatement to say that the Seawolves are struggling as they have lost 10 of 11 games and have one win since December 9^th 2011. This weekend the Seawolves travel to Saint Cloud State Huskies.

Related articles

• WCHA Power Rankings (2/2/12) (insidehockey.com)
• WCHA Power Rankings: 1/22/12 (insidehockey.com)

Goon's WCHA Power Rankings 2/5/2012

This is my weekly WCHA Power Rankings for INSIDE HOCKEY, Zack Friedli from Hockey State of Mind and I do a weekly WCHA Power Rankings.

1.  Minnesota – (15-5-0 WCHA, 19-9-1). The Minnesota Gophers were idle this past weekend. This weekend the Gophers travel to Denver to play the Pioneers.

2. Minnesota Duluth – (12-5-3 WCHA, 18-6-4) The Bulldogs split with the UAA Seawolves (4-1 W, 2-3 L) this past weekend in Anchorage, Alaska. This weekend the Bulldogs entertain UND at Amsoil Arena. Since the 2004-05 season, UMD has a 6-17-2 record against UND.

2.  Colorado College – (12-7-1 WCHA, 15-9-2) The Tigers took three of four points (2-0 W, 2-2 T) against their cross state rivals the Denver Pioneers. This weekend the Tigers travel to Bemidji to play the Beavers at the Sanford Center.

4. Denver – (10-6-4 WCHA, 15-9-4). The Denver Pioneers took one point (0-2 L, 2-2T) in a home and home series with the C.C. Tigers. This weekend the Pioneers entertain the Minnesota Gophers.

4.  North Dakota – (11-9-0 WCHA, 15-10-2) The University of North Dakota was idle last weekend. This weekend the University of North Dakota makes the drive down highway two to play the high flying Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs. Since the 2004-05 season, UND has a 17-6-2 record against UMD.

6. Michigan Tech – (10-8-2 WCHA, 13-13-2) The Michigan Tech Huskies  split with the Minnesota State Mavericks this past weekend (3-5 L, 7-3 W) in Mankato, Minnesota. This weekend the Huskies entertain the UNO Mavericks.

7.  Nebraska-Omaha – (9-7-4 WCHA, 12-11-5) The Mavericks took one point against the (1-1 T, 4-6 L) Bemidji State Beavers. The UNO Mavericks have won a grand total of one game in 10 tries, over the course of two seasons, against the Beavers 1-6-3. This includes a record of 1-1-2 this season. This weekend the UNO Mavericks travel to Houghton, Michigan to play the Tech Huskies.  

7. Bemidji State – (7-10-3 WCHA, 13-12-3) The Beavers took three of four points this past weekend series with the University of Nebraska Omaha Mavericks (1-1 T, 6-4 W) in Omaha, Nebraska. The Beavers have a 6-1-3 record against the UNO Mavericks in 10 games over the course of two seasons, against the Mavericks. This weekend the Beavers entertain the C.C. Tigers in the Sanford Center.

9. St. Cloud State – (9-10-3 WCHA, 12-14-4) The Huskies wept the Wisconsin Badgers in Madison this past weekend (5-1 W, 2-1 W).  The depleted Huskies only dressed 11 healthy forwards on Saturday night. Huskies junior goalie Mike Lee returned from a hip injury last weekend. This weekend he was stellar in net stopping 72/74 shots this weekend against the Wisconsin Badgers. Lee has only given up four goals in three games since his return from injury. 

10. Wisconsin – (7-13-2 WCHA, 12-14-2) The Wisconsin Badgers were swept by the Saint Cloud State Huskies this past weekend (1-5 l, 1-2 L) at the Kohl Center. The Badgers are idle next weekend.

11. Minnesota State – (6-15-1 WCHA, 10-19-1) The Minnesota State Mavericks split their weekend series Michigan Tech Huskies (5-3 W, 3-7 L). The Mavericks travel to Anchorage, Alaska to play the UAA Seawolves.

12.  Alaska-Anchorage – (4-17-1 WCHA, 7-17-2) The Seawolves split with the UMD Bulldogs at home (1-4 L, 3-2 W). With their win against the Bulldogs on Saturday night the Seawolves halted an 8 game losing streak.  Before last night’s win the Seawolves had not won a game since December 9, 2011. This weekend the Seawolves entertain the Minnesota State Mavericks.

Related articles

• WCHA Power Rankings (2/2/12) (insidehockey.com)
• Goon's WCHA Power Rankings 1/29/2012 (ndgoon.blogspot.com)
• Goon's WCHA Power Rankings 1/22/2012 (ndgoon.blogspot.com)
• WCHA Power Rankings: 1/22/12 (insidehockey.com)
• Goon's WCHA Power Rankings 1/15/2012 (ndgoon.blogspot.com)

DU get some some good news... Brittain & Ryder back

Image via WikipediaIt appears that the Denver Pioneers have gotten some good news as two of their key players have returned from injury. It will be interesting to see how well Sam Brittain plays.

Mike Chambers, Denver Post --- Two of the University of Denver's most important defenders are close to returning to a depleted lineup. Pioneers coach George Gwozdecky said sophomore goalie Sam Brittain and senior defenseman John Ryder were cleared to practice Monday and are probable for this weekend's two-game series at Alaska-Anchorage.

Brittain, who took over as the program's No. 1 goalie as a freshman last season, has missed the entire season after undergoing major knee surgery June 17. Ryder, DU's fiercest hitter, suffered a fractured knee cap in November and has missed the past 13 games.

Related articles

• DU's Brittain, Ryder cleared to practice (denverpost.com)
• DU hockey without injured Adam Murray and John Ryder until January (denverpost.com)

Goon's WCHA Power Rankings 1/9/2012

This is my weekly WCHA Power Rankings for INSIDE HOCKEY, Zack Friedli from Hockey State of Mind and I will be doing the weekly WCHA Power Rankings.

1.  Minnesota Duluth – (10-2-2 WCHA, 14-3-3) The Bulldogs swept future NCHC foe Western Michigan University (4-1, 5-2) in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The Bulldogs travel to Omaha, Nebraska to play the UNO Mavericks.

2. Minnesota – (11-3-0 WCHA, 15-7-1) Minnesota lost to Notre Dame (1-4) in the Hall of Fame on Saturday night. I wouldn’t be an understatement to say that the Gophers looked out of sync and unimpressive. Since sweeping North Dakota on November 5^th, 2011 Minnesota has a record of 6-6-1. Minnesota travels to Grand Fork, ND to play UND this weekend.

3.  Nebraska-Omaha – (7-4-3 WCHA, 10-8-4) The Mavericks played Quinnipiac Bobcats this past weekend in Omaha, Nebraska (2-2 T and 4-1 W). The Mavericks entertain the high flying UMD Bulldogs this weekend.

4. Denver – (6-5-3 WCHA, 11-8-3) We keep hearing about how good the Denver Pioneers are going to be when they get their injured payers back, Beau Bennett (wrist), John Ryder (knee) David Makowski (unknown) Sam Brittain (knee) are all out with injuries; so one might say that the Pioneers are still a work in progress, however, the time is ticking on the clock. The Pioneers split with the lowly University of Huntsville Chargers this past weekend in Denver (2-3 L and 5-2 W). This weekend the Pioneers entertain the Bemidji State Beavers. 

4. North Dakota – (7-7-0, 11-8-2) The University of North Dakota beat Clarkson University 3-1 in Winnipeg Manitoba at the U.S. College Hockey Classic. It would be an understatement if I said that the University of North Dakota has been hit by the Injury Ninja and the following players are currently out of the line up for UND;  Corban Knight (lower body), Rocco Grimaldi (knee), Derek Forbort (unknown) and Derek Rodwell (shoulder, season ending).

6.  Colorado College – (12-7-1 WCHA, 9-5-0) The Tigers are a hard team to figure out, and this past weekend the Tigers got their highly talented sophomore forward Jaden Schwartz back from the Canadian WJC team. In what could be classified as a puzzling move, the Tigers scratched Schwartz from the line up for Friday night’s game. Schwartz returned to the line up on Saturday night and he would help lead the Tigers to a (3-3) tie against the Cornell Big Red. This weekend the Colorado College Tigers entertain the Saint Cloud State Huskies.

7.  Michigan Tech – (6-7-1 WCHA, 9-11-1) The Michigan Tech Huskies were idle this past weekend after being swept the weekend before in the Great Lakes Invitational (1-3 L, 1-2 L). The Huskies have lost four straight games and hope to get back to their winning says as they entertain the University of Alaska Anchorage Seawolves in Houghton Michigan.

7.  Bemidji State – (5-7-2 WCHA, 11-9-2) The Beavers Swept Bowling Green State University last weekend (4-1 W, 2-1 W). Since the Beavers beat UND (1-0) on the 20^th of November the Beavers have gone an impressive (7-1-1) and are unbeaten in the last five games (5-0-0).

9. St. Cloud State – (5-6-3 WCHA, 8-10-4) The Huskies were off this past weekend and travel to Colorado Springs Colorado to play the high octane Tigers. Since the Huskies beat the Minnesota Gophers (4-3) in Saint Cloud on November 18^th, the Huskies have gone a lack luster (3-5-2). 

10. Wisconsin – (4-8-2 WCHA, 9-9-2) The Wisconsin Badgers have ann impressive 9-4-1 record at home and after sweeping AHA foe cupcake RIT (6-3 W, 2-1 W). This weekend the Badgers travel to Mankato Minnesota to play the last place Minnesota State Mavericks. On paper you would think this is going to be an automatic two wins for the Badgers. Maybe not; the Badgers are an unimpressive 0-5-1 on the road and hope to pick up their first two wins at Mankato half way through the month of January.  Until the Badgers can start winning games on the road they will remain in the bottom rung of the WCHA standings and rankings.

11. Alaska-Anchorage – (3-10-1 WCHA, 6-10-2) The Seawolves haven’t played in an actual game since the 10^th of December, 2011 when they split with the C.C. Tigers (6-3 W, 3-4 L) so the Seawolves could be a little rusty when they travel to Houghton Michigan to play the Michigan Tec Huskies.

12.  Minnesota State – (2-11-1 WCHA, 6-15-1) The Minnesota State Mavericks split their series with the Saint Lawrence University Saints (3-4 L, 3-1W) in Canton, New York this past weekend. The Mavericks entertain the Wisconsin Badgers this weekend at the Verizon  Wireless Center. 

Related articles

• WCHA Power Rankings - December 12 (insidehockey.com)
• WCHA Power Rankings - December 5 (insidehockey.com)
• WCHA Power Rankings - November 28 (insidehockey.com)
• WCHA Power Rankings - November 21 (insidehockey.com)
• WCHA Power Rankings - November 13 (insidehockey.com)

Goon’s WCHA Power Rankings 12/11/2011

Each week Zach Friedli and I do the WCHA Power Rankings for INSIDE HOCKEY.  This will be the last Power Rankings till January 8th, 2012.

1.  Minnesota Duluth – (10-2-2 WCHA, 12-3-3) The Bulldogs took 3 out of 4 points from the Wisconsin Badgers in Madison, this past weekend. With the win and the Bulldogs moved into a tie for first place with the Minnesota Golden Gophers.  The Bulldogs travel to Kalamazoo, Michigan to play future NCHC foe Western Michigan (9-4-5). Friday’s game will be broadcast on CBS College Sports.

2. Minnesota – (11-3-0 WCHA, 14-5-1) The Gophers split their weekend series with the upstart Michigan Tech Huskies in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Gophers are off until the December 30^th when they play Niagara University (5-5-6) in the Mariucci Classic.

3. Nebraska-Omaha – (7-4-3 WCHA, 9-8-3) The Mavericks split their weekend series with the University of North Dakota Fighting Sioux this past weekend (2-1 O.T. W, 0-1 L). The Mavericks are off until December 30^th when the Mavericks play Quinnipiac University Bobcats in Omaha, Nebraska.  

4. North Dakota – (7-7-0, 9-8-1) The Fighting Sioux split their weekend series with the UNO Mavericks (1-2 O.T. L, 1-0 W).  The Fighting Sioux have now won 6 out of the last 8 games and are tied with the C.C. Tigers for fourth.  The Fighting Sioux have a single exhibition game with the Russian Red Stars on Saturday night.  The Fighting Sioux will resume play with a non-conference game against the Harvard University Crimson (4-3-3) on December 30^th at Ralph Englestad Arena.

5. Colorado College – (7-5-0 WCHA, 9-5-0) The Tigers split their weekend series with the UAA Seawovles (3-6 L, 4-3 W), this weekend the Tigers travel to Mankato, Minnesota to play the Minnesota State Mavericks.

6.  Denver – (5-4-3 WCHA, 7-6-3) – The Denver Pioneers split their weekend series with the Bemidji State Beavers (3-2 W, 1-2 L).  The Pioneers travel to Saint Cloud to play the SCSU Huskies.

7.  Bemidji State – (5-7-2 WCHA, 7-9-2) The Bemidji State Beavers split their weekend series with the Denver Pioneers (2-3 L, 2-1 W).  According to Eric Stromgren from the Bemidji Pioneer, this was the Beavers first win against the Denver Pioneers in the Division I era. The Beavers entertain their old CHA Rival University of Alabama Huntsville (1-17-1). I wonder if we will see any of the “Who Hates Huntsville” T-Shirts this weekend.

8. Michigan Tech – (6-7-1 WCHA, 9-8-1) The Tech Huskies split with the Minnesota Golden Gophers (3-2 O.T. W, 2-6 L).  The Huskies are (6-3-1) at home and (3-5-0) away from the John MacInnes Student Ice Arena. The Tech Huskies travel to across the Upper Peninsula to Marquette, Michigan for a single game with their arch rival the Northern Michigan University Wildcats (8-7-3).

9. Wisconsin – (4-8-2 WCHA, 7-9-2) The Badgers took one point from the high flying UMD Bulldogs this past weekend, the Badgers are off till New Years Eve when they play the USDT Under 18 team. The Badgers will resume play next year on January 6^th, when they play the R.I.T. Tigers in Madison, Wisconsin.

10. St. Cloud State – (4-5-3 WCHA, 6-8-4) The Huskies were idle this past weekend. The Huskies since beating the Minnesota Golden Gophers in the first game of a home and home series are on a five game winless streak (0-3-2). The Huskies entertain the Denver Pioneers with weekend.

11. Alaska-Anchorage – (3-10-1 WCHA, 6-10-2) The UAA Seawolves split their weekend series with the Colorado College Tigers in Colorado Springs (6-3 W, 3-4L).  The Seawolves won’t play against till January 13^th when they travel to Houghton, Michigan to play the Tech Huskies. 

12.  Minnesota State – (2-9-1 WCHA, 5-12-0) The Minnesota State Mavericks swept the UAH Chargers in a non-conference match-up (4-2, 9-1).  The Mavericks entertain the Colorado College Tigers this weekend.

Related articles

• WCHA Power Rankings - December 5 (insidehockey.com)
• WCHA Power Rankings - November 28 (insidehockey.com)
• WCHA Power Rankings - November 21 (insidehockey.com)
• WCHA Power Rankings - November 13 (insidehockey.com)

He just can't help himself.

Oh the Irony!!! Bangs head against table! Just when I am about to give the Denver Post beat writer Mike Chambers, who covers the Denver Pioneers and the Colorado Avalanche, "a little" credit, Chambers goes out and blows it again. Say it isn't so Mike? Why all of the hate?

The irony.

Malone was making his NHL debut in the hometown of former University of Denver center Jesse Martin, a 2006 draft pick of the Atlanta Thrashers​ (now Winnipeg Jets).

Martin's competitive hockey career ended early last season, when he sustained three fractures to his C2 vertebra from a penalized check by Malone, then a North Dakota senior.

Martin is recovering in Edmonton, surrounded by family in friends, working at a bank and skating in a local men's league. He continues to suffer from numbness in his arms, and he has limited range of motion in his neck. But according to his father, Terry Martin, Jesse is doing well. [Denver Post Blog]

So what is this writer going to write when Bard Malone score his first goal? Is his blog post going to contain something that looks like this? Former UND Fighting Sioux forward Brad Malone, who broke Jesse Martins neck with an illegal check in Grand Forks, ND during the 2010-11 season, scored his first NHL goal. So is the Denver post on-line newspaper hurting that bad for hits that Mike Chambers has to insult a whole fan base to get hits from Sioux fans.

Related articles

• Another Mike Chambers drive by shooting on former Fighting Sioux forward Brad Malone... (mvn.com)
• Former Fighting Sioux forward Brad Malone interviewed by Mike Chambers (mvn.com)
• Another Mike Chambers drive by shooting on former Fighting Sioux forward Brad Malone... (realclearsports.com)

Goon's WCHA Power Rankings

Image via Wikipedia

Starting this week going forward, Zack Friedli and I will be submitting WCHA rankings every Monday to Inside Hockey. 



1.  Denver – The Pioneers 3-1-0 swept the depleted MSU-M Mavericks (10-2, 4-2) this past weekend. The Pioneers play this upcoming weekend at Michigan Tech 4-2-0.  

2.  Colorado College – The Tigers 2-0-0 were idle this past weekend. The Tigers play at RPI (1-4-0) this up coming weekend.

3.  Minnesota – The Gophers 5-1-1 are red hot after a split with the Vermont Catamounts this past weekend (6-0, 4-5).  The Minnesota Gophers will be looking for revenge as they head to Anchorage, Alaska to play the upstart UAA Seawolves (3-2-1). The UAA Seawolves are the team that swept the Gophers out of the WCHA playoffs last spring.

4.  Wisconsin – The Badgers swept the Fighting Sioux in Madison (5-3, 5-4). The Badgers entertain the UNO Mavericks in Madison this upcoming weekend. 

5.  UMD – The tDogs took three of four points from the Providence Friars of Hockey East and will entertain the BSU Beavers 3-3-0 at Amsoil Arena.  

6.  North Dakota – The Fighting Sioux were swept by the Badgers in Madison (5-3, 5-4). The Fighting Sioux return home in a foul mood, to play the SCSU Huskies.

7.  Bemidji – The BSU Beavers 3-3-0 swept the Tech Huskies this past weekend in Bemidji (6-5, 3-1). The Beavers travel to Duluth to play the Bulldog in Amsoil Arena. 

8. Nebraska-Omaha – The Mavericks swept the UAA Seawovles in Omaha after losing the week before the Seawolves in the Alaska Goal Rush tourney. This week also marked the return Alex Hudson from his four game suspension.  Hudson was held off the score sheet in both games by the Seawolves. 

9. Michigan Tech – The Huskies 4-2-0 were swept in Bemidji by the Beavers (6-5, 3-1), this is after sweeping the Badgers the week prior in Houghton, Michigan. The Huskies play the Denver Pioneers at home this weekend.

10.  Alaska-Anchorage – Swept by the UNO Mavericks in Omaha . Head home to play the Minnesota Gophers 5-1-0

11.  St. Cloud State – A win and a tie against Hockey East team UNH (7-5, 3-3). Travel to REA to play the Fighting Sioux 2-3-1 who were swept by the Badgers.

12.  Minnesota State – The Mavericks have been bit by the injury bug and were swept by the Denver Pioneers last weekend (10-2, 4-2). Off this weekend.