North Dakota vs. Boston University:
The second game should be a dandy. North Dakota is another preseason team to watch, while Boston University has a lot going for them. Both teams are back with something to prove, but each is faced with goaltending situations.
For North Dakota, Aaron Walski is the lone returning goaltender, and he will be pushed by freshman Brad Eidsness. As for BU, coach Jack Parker cut Brett Bennett from the team, leaving little-used sophomore Adam Kraus and two freshmen -- Grant Rollheiser and Kieran Millan.
It's been a long time now since BU has returned to the Frozen Four, and last year the Terriers failed to make the NCAAs. The goaltending was a huge achilles' heel, and the defense -- while offensively gifted -- wasn't also the best at helping out.
The weekend will probably go a long way towards determining who will get the bulk of goaltending time out of the gate.
The Terriers were shocked when they heard that Colin Wilson and Matt Gilroy, both of which were expected to go pro, stayed for one more year. Wilson was the highest pick of any college player in last June's NHL Draft, while Gilroy is back for his senior year on defense.
The Sioux did lose some key players, however, they are ready to reload. Expect the Sioux to come out with the victory in this one, by a couple of goals.
Prediction: UND 4, BU 2
Sioux to Watch: Evan Trupp
Terrier to Watch: David Warsofsky
Here is the review for the game tomorrow afternoon. I think the UMass Minutemen will also prove to be a very good test for the Fighting Sioux. I honestly don't know what to expect from the Fighting Sioux this weekend. I am hopeful the Sioux can get the sweep on the weekend it won't be a cake walk. Also I would say a split or a tie and a win would also be an acceptable result as well. Coming home with two losses would not be acceptable and not in any way desirable. I think playing a couple of Hockey East teams this weekend is a good way to start the season against two very tough teams.
Massachusetts vs. North Dakota:
In this game, the UMass looks a little overmatched, at least on paper.
North Dakota is bigger, stronger, and faster than the Minutemen right now. However, things can change when you play the game.
Look for UMass to play a tight defensive style of play and try to avoid any creation of the open ice for the Sioux. Look for the Sioux to create a style of play to their advantage.
The game might start off close, but the Sioux are a better team.
Prediction: UND 5, UMass 2
Sioux to Watch: Andrew Kozek
Minuteman to Watch: Topher Bevis
