The Fighting Sioux show how to Dismantle a top 5 Team

A thing of Beauty

Everyone talks about the championship game between UND and UMN being a game to remember I think other wise; most of those fans making those claims are Gopher fans. I actually thought Saturday's game was less than exciting and ranked just behind the MTU and Wisconsin game on Thursday night.

I had the pleasure to Witness the game live between the Sioux and Huskies on Friday afternoon. Friday's game was a text book example of how to play championship hockey, it was the best I have seen UND play in two season. The game plan UND used was also a text book example of how to cycle the puck, fore check and generate offense, and put the opponent away. It was an amazing game to watch.

Intangibles

Chris Porter showed us how valuable seniors can be by scoring a timely goal to put the final nails in the coffin. Although he doesn't score a ton of goals his 172 games is a testament of the type of player he is. Next season it will be evident that Porter is no longer part of the team. Since day one I have liked his game.

Goal tending and defense wins games if not championships. The Huskies left Bobby out to dry all game long. In fact Bobby should have sued his defensive corps for non-support. Even an all-American goal tender can get shelled if he gets little if any support from his blue liners. I don't see the Huskies going far if they continue to play like this.

Chris Vande Velde showed us a glimsp of the future, the kid is going to be a power forward. I like what I saw on Friday afternoon.

NCAA Tourney Picks

The
NCAA Hockey Bracket Challenge is up again on Sioux sports. Get you picks in. Naturally I am picking the Sioux. No big shock there.

The Weekend that Wasn't

The Weekend in Review 

This past weekend the Sioux put up a decent effort and came up just a little short. Friday against the Huskies I thought the Sioux owned SCSU, lets just say that the Sioux pasted the Huskies and it wasn't even close. The DOT line made Bobby look Briggs like.

The Fighting Sioux were were all over the Huskies from the drop of the puck till the last whistle. The Sioux got balanced scoring and that was key to winning the game against the Huskies.

Against the Gophers the Sioux got out of their rhythm from the drop of the puck as they took stupid penalty after stupid penalty. The denfense game up a few soft goals and the Sioux just seemed to be a step behind the Gophers all game. If the Sioux could have picked it up they could have won this game but the Fighting Sioux spent too much of their game trying to even scores and running their mouths. The Sioux played undisciplined in Saturday's game.
 

The Brackets for the NCAA Tourney

Northeast Regional, Manchester, N.H.

(1) New Hampshire vs. (4) Miami
(2) Boston College vs. (3) St. Lawrence

The North East is a tough bracket and it really doesn't favor any team in my opinion. If there is a favorite I would have to say that it is the Eagles. It will be like a home game for the Wild Cats but the Eagles will prevail in the end.

East Regional, Rochester, N.Y.

(1) Clarkson vs. (4) Massachusetts
(2) St. Cloud vs. (3)Maine

SCSU has the easiest bracket, however it's not a given they can win their first game. This will be another one and done for the SCSU Huskies. Talk about a bracket I would love to see UND in. I am picking Maine in this bracket. This is the easiest bracket to the Frozen Four.

Midwest Regional, Grand Rapids, Mich.

(1) Notre Dame vs. (4) Alabama-Huntsville
(2) Boston Univ. vs. (3) Michigan State

Just as I predicted earlier there would be a Michigan school in Grand Rapids. The Michigan schools travel well in the state of Michigan and State fans will pack the arena. Personally, I think the NCAA selection committee is trying to make sure that HE and the CCHA gets a team or two into the tourney because the NCAA is tired of seeing the WCHA win the national championship year after year.

West Regional, Denver

(1) Minnesota vs. (4) Air Force 2:30 p.m. Saturday
(2) Michigan vs. (3) UND 6:30 p.m. Saturday

Satnu has called this the Death Match Regional, I have to agree with his assessment. This regional is brutal to say the least, its like the committee had a bad hangover and decided lets sock it too the traditional powers this year. Incidently, this regional looks just like last years REA regional minus Holy Cross. I like UND's chances of winning this regional, winning is possible and you have to beat the best to be the best. Also, not having to play Michigan in the state of Michigan is huge in my opinion. No excuses, time to strap it on for the Sioux and stop taking knuckle headed penatlies. If you would have asked me if UND would be a three seed in the NCAA tourney back in December I would have told you that your high.

Whoever wins this regional will be the eventual NCAA champion. I just hope finally UND can get number 8. I think 8 > 5 sounds better than 7 > 5.

This is what happens when you lose a bet

 

I normally don't wear a Gophers jersey, nor would I ever buy one but I lost a bet and keeping true to my word I posed for a picuture wearing the hated Gopher Jersey. Let it be known that right after the picture I took it off immediately. I was affraid that I was going to break out in hives. All in good fun right?

This is a good example of horrible Defense

The Sioux really blew it last night. This is also a text book example of how to not play defensive hockey, especially in over time. The puck is turned over by Chorney in the defensive zone, Matt Watkins whiffs and fails to get control of the puck in the defensive zone, the puck is shot down the ice and finally Lee fails to stop the shot by Wheeler, I am not so sure if Lee could have anyway. Lastly, I wouldn't fault Lammy because of the folly of mistakes that took place before shot, but he wasn't in position to make the save and if he had been standing up maybe he could have saved it. Overall a poor effort by the Fighting Sioux last night. Not all that concerned though you could put that in the Oh well category.

Sioux get some love in the WCHA Season ending Awards

The Envelope Please

WCHA Awards

*Player of the Year*
Ryan Duncan, So, F, North Dakota

*Outstanding Student-Athlete of the Year*
Lee Sweatt, Sr, D, Colorado College

*Defensive Player of the Year*
Alex Goligoski, Jr, D, Minnesota

*Rookie of the Year*
Andreas Nodl, Fr, F, St. Cloud State

*Coach of the Year*
Bob Motzko, St. Cloud State
Jamie Russell, Michigan Tech

*Scoring Champion*
Ryan Duncan, So, F, North Dakota

*WCHA Goaltending Champion*
Brian Elliott, Sr, G, Wisconsin

*2006-07 All-WCHA First Team*
F Ryan Duncan, North Dakota
F Mason Raymond, Minnesota-Duluth
F Andrew Gordon, St. Cloud State
D Alex Goligoski, Minnesota
D Matt Niskanen, Minnesota-Duluth
G Bobby Goepfert, St. Cloud State

*2006-07 All-WCHA Second Team*
F Jonathan Toews, North Dakota
F Travis Morin, Minnesota State
F Kyle Okposo, Minnesota
D Mike Vannelli, Minnesota
D Taylor Chorney, North Dakota
G Brian Elliott, Wisconsin

*2006-07 All-WCHA Third Team*
F Andreas Nodl, St. Cloud State
F T.J. Oshie, North Dakota
F Ryan Dingle, Denver
D Lee Sweatt, Colorado College
D Steve Wagner, Minnesota State
G Michael-Lee Teslak, Michigan Tech

*2006-07 All-WCHA Rookie Team*
F Andreas Nodl, St. Cloud State
F Kyle Okposo, Minnesota
F Ryan Lasch, St. Cloud State
D Erik Johnson, Minnesota
D Jamie McBain, Wisconsin
G Alex Stalock, Minnesota-Duluth

The Awards were a lot better than last year when UND basically took it in the shorts. I really believe that Taylor Chorney should have been a first team player.

Duncan Make the Cut

Ryan Duncan makes the Hobey Baker Top Ten.

Boston University's John Curry
Notre Dame's David Brown
St. Cloud State's Bobby Goepfert
St. Lawrence's Drew Bagnall
Miami's Nathan Davis
Michigan's T.J. Hensick
WCHA Player of the Year Ryan Duncan (North Dakota)
Air Force's Eric Ehn
Dartmouth's David Jones
UNO's Scott Parse

I guess I could say that I was shocked that there were only 2 candidates from the WCHA, surprisingly no Gophers and some how Brian Elliot was left off of the list. Definately an East Coast bias.

Jutting Staying in Mankato

Jutting gets a new deal

CHN Staff Report

MANKATO, Minn. — Minnesota State coach Troy Jutting, whose was in the last year of his contract, reached an agreement in principle today on an extension that will keep him behind the Mavericks' bench. According to the school, a few remaining details will be finalized when Jutting meets with athletic director Kevin Buisman early next week.

Maverick fans can rest assured they have a coach at least for the time being. I know there are fans in Mankato that aren't going to be happy but in my opinion its the right thing to do. Jutting's teams have hard competative and working and fun to watch play.

Bruins and Redwings

Bochenski got two assist and the Bruins beat the Red Wings 6-3. Bochenski has 5 points in the last five games. Not too bad for a player that the Chicago Black Hawks found no use for. I just don't get it one bit. Since coming to Boston all Bo has done is score points. I guess the Boston Bruins got the best of that deal. I am going to get me a black Bruins jersey with a number 10 on the back, thank God Zhamanov didn't put any bad mojo in that number.

I believe that for Bochenski to be successful he had to be on one of the top lines playing with top end players. Phil Kessel is the same way, since he has been on one of the top lines and not mired on the fourth line, Phil has been pumping in points on a steady basis as well. The future for the Burins is really bright. I suppose there is a reason that Chicago is mired in the bottom half of the standings.

Goon's Final Five Predictions

Thursday Night Play in game:
I believe this game will be an ugly game with little if any action. Wisconsin needs to win the tourney to get in the NCAA's I pick the Huskies over the Badgers in an ugly 1-0 game.

Friday Afternoon UND and the SCSU Swoonskies, I will take the Sioux in ot 4-3. The Sioux are hot and will continue the streak.

Minnesota rule

Golden "Chokers" Gophers against upstart MTU Huskies I am taking the Huskies in another 5-4 game.

Saturday Afternoon

Gophers finally beat the Swoonskies 4-1 and break a losing streak at the X-Cel Energy Center.

Saturday Evening

Sioux over the MTU Huskies in a Rvenge Match 4-2

I believe the MTU Huskies will make the tourney as a at Large Bid. Wisconsin is one and done. Sorry Badgers.

Chris Simon is a thug.

This kind of stuff has no room in hockey and the NHL has rightfully suspended Chris Simon for the rest of the season and into the playoffs. So that means if the Islanders make the playoffs and go a couple of rounds, Simon would be able to return next season. If the Islanders miss the playoffs Simon will miss more games next season as well.

Western College Hockey: New Commitments

Western College Hockey and Chris Heisenberg are reporting Western College Hockey: New Commitments

The Sioux steal a big time recruit out of the Gophers back yard, as the Sioux get Joe Gleason from Edina. I can't wait to hear the Gopher fans say oh well Gleason wasn't on the Gopher's radar and the Gopher's are set on defense didn't want him anyway...

Bo is Money in Boston

Clips of the Bruins and Wild game. Bochenski with the only Bruin's goal in the contest as the Wild won the game 2-1 Typical Bochenski goal in the paint picking up the trash. Bochenski followed up that game with a two point game against the Red Wings. Bocheski's numbers on the season 11 goals and 8 assist for 19 points in 28 games.

Vegas

Vacationin in Las Vegas for 4 days and hockey isn't king in the the Silver State, we are probably going to an ECHL game on Tuesday. I have needing a hockey fix becasue there has been some hockey on the tube in the sports book but it appears to be an after thought. I did manage to win actually win a three team parlay but realized I had paid $5.00 to win 9.15, incidently it's about the only money I won the whole time I have been here. When it comes to gambling a person would be more successful if you just take your money you were going to spend in a slot machine and throw it into the street, you would get the same results and your chances of winning are better. It appears that DU and C.C. are probably out of the national tourney again this season. That's the breaks for the WCHA beating up on each other all season long.

Interesting Article on ESPN and the NHL

I found this article on Off Wing Opinion

This is an interesting perspective about ESPN and the NHL

looks like we are going to be stuck with Versus for sometime to come. This is why I went and purchased NHL center ice I didn't want to be at the mercy of the local cable company now I can pick the games that I want to see.

Lucia with PA and Dubay

Lucia trying to keep it together

Check out this interview that took place today on
KFAN 1130 PA and Dubay

You have got to hear this interview; it’s interesting to say the least. It's hard to win when you don't get good goaltending. Lucia on the Erik Johnson interview, " there will be no more interviews that don't relate to college hockey”. “With the Internet today you say something and it’s all over.” “No talk with personal advisors we need to focus on our team and on the moment right now.” Sunday morning we sent a message to our players.

Moronic Fans at the John.

The MTU fans (Mean Girl and Boosh) from the Michigan Tech Blog ran into some real classy Minnesoda fans this past weekend. In the day of the world wide web and the internet this stuff could come back to haunt these folks. Imagine your future employer is close to picking you for a job and they come across this stuff. It's a deal breaker. Fat, drunk and stupid is no way to go through life son.

Check out this Goofy Bochenski Video.

This video is odd, I found it on YouTube. This is from Bochenskis days as a Lincoln Star. Wouldn't you know it Brandon scored his first NHL goal against his current team the Boston Bruins. Figures it's against Andrew Raycroft.

March 7 Bracketology is up

Jason Moy has his latest Brackets up on
USCHO

West Regional:

St. Lawrence vs. St. Cloud
Denver vs. Clarkson

Midwest Regional:

Sacred Heart vs. Minnesota
Michigan vs. Boston University

East Regional:

Niagara vs. Notre Dame
Boston College vs. Miami

Northeast Regional:

Michigan State vs. New Hampshire
Maine vs. North Dakota

I could see the NCAA committee doubling up a WCHA team or two to make sure they don't have another all WCHA Frozen Four. The East Regional is the weakest in my opinion and would all but assure the Eagles a trip to the Frozen Four. The West Regional isn't all that strong and I could see the Huskies making the trip.

Moy Predicts that

Teams that are in no matter what:
North Dakota and up.

Here are my first team WCHA Picks

1st Team:
F Ryan Duncan (North Dakota) 22-17-39 (1.39ppg)
F Jonathan Toews (North Dakota) 8-20-29 (1.27ppg)
F TJ Oshie (North Dakota) 10-16-26 (0.93ppg)
D Alex Goligoski (Minnesota) 4-16-20 (0.71ppg)
D Taylor Chorney (North Dakota) 5-14-19 (0.73ppg)
G Bobby Goepfert (St. Cloud State) 2.19 gaa, .929 sv%

Call me a homer but this is what I think they should be.
I am sure the Sioux will at best have two players on the first, second and third team.

Mav's and Sioux part III

Scoreboard
The second season begins this weekend

The Sioux's quest for an 8th national title begins when the Sioux face off against the Minnesota State Mankato Mavericks. This weekend's match up will be a battle. Let's just say that it will be another one of those hard nosed games where there will be some very rugged play and probably a good fight or two. These two teams will not let us down. Rest assured you can expect a parade to the penalty box, as both teams are known to take a high number of penalties, however, that is just my personnel prediction. I could be wrong, but its not likely. Last time the two teams hooked up there were two fights, one at center ice and a ton of penalty minutes.

Wheres the Goalie
This weekend's series will be one of those times to strap it on tight and be ready to play some old time hockey. Jutting's team's are tough and they never seem to be intimidated. Make no mistake about it the Mavericks are not a pushover and are a tough draw for the first round of the WCHA playoffs. The Mavericks are a team that will fight for every inch and will give the opposition nothing. In a way I kind of admire the Maverick's style of play.

I am not sure why this is but the Mav's always seem to bring their "A" game when they play the Sioux.


Skilled players

The Mavericks have a couple of awesome and skilled players in Morin and Kalinski. Look for Kalinski because the kid has a knack for scoring short handed goals, he can also fly and will be one of the faster players on the ice this weekend. The Sioux must be aware of him when they are killing a penalty. Travis Morin is well Travis Morin, a four year senior that always seems to score at the right time. The Sioux must not let him roam free this weekend.

Predicting the outcome

The Sioux should win but they must not disrespect the Mavericks or they will be watching the Final Five on TV. They need to take care of the defensive zone and score timely goals. Gut tells me Sioux in two but this series could go three games. Get your ice packs ready.

The way it all ended

This the Final Regulars season WCHA Standings

1. Minnesota
2. St. Cloud
3. North Dakota
4. Denver
5. Colorado College
6. Michigan Tech
7. Wisconsin
8. Minnesota State
9. Minnesota-Duluth
10. Alaska-Anchorage

Goon's Pre-Season Picks Projected
Final League Standing

1. Minnesota (=)
2. North Dakota (-1)
3. Denver (-1)
4. Wisconsin (-3)
5. Colorado College (=)
6. Minnesota-Duluth (-3)
6. St. Cloud (+4)
8. Minnesota State (=)
9. Michigan Tech (+3)
10. Alaska-Anchorage (=)

I picked 4/10 right not too bad for an amateur. I called Minnesota, Minnesota State and Achorage right, I tottally missed the boat on the Huskies, Badgers and Bull Dogs.

More Bockenski, as Bruins beat the Habs.

Brandon Bochenski has lit the lamp at every level he has played at. Check out Brandon's sweet goal at 2:27 into the YouTube video as Bochenski rips it past Habs goalie Halak on the short side.

The Bruins and Devils.

The game looked like a former college hockey allstar game. Parise and Zajac were held scoreless and Bochenski and Kessel had multi point games. Any time the Devils lose it's alright with me. When the Bruins beat them it's a bonus.

Erik Johnson grumbling in Minnesota.

Check it out

Here is part of the text from a John Buccigross and Erik Johnson interview that is on the ESPN NHL web page. Honestly; I am sure none of us will be shocked if the goes to the NHL right after the Gophers season comes to a screeching halt but I do find it interesting.

Q: Will you be playing in the NHL next season?


A: Let me first start off by saying that I think it was a great choice to come to Minnesota this year. It was a great steppingstone. But next year, I really think I need to make the jump in competition in order to keep developing the way I want to. I think here at Minnesota, I could have been used more effectively in the system, so that has been frustrating. But, overall, it has been a fun time and I have really enjoyed my time here and I desperately want to win a national title. Next year will be decided after the season, though.

[Sounds like a St. Louis real estate agent is going to get a nice commission within a few months.]


Q: Have you stopped going to class?


A: Many times, I have been really close to stopping, but no, I am there pretty regularly. My classes are somewhat interesting, and it gives me something to do other than hockey. After hockey is over, it will be tough.

[Wow! Honesty! How rare. I like these nonpackaged answers. Hopefully, IMG won't get a hold of you. This not-going-to-class thing in college happens a lot in every sport. If a student-athlete knows he or she is not going to return to school the following year, they usually stop going to class. I'm not one to cast stones. If I was in the same situation, I would do the same thing. Hang out in my dorm room, go to the cafeteria and enjoy college life.]


Q: Will you fight in the NHL?


A: I certainly am not going to be a player where all I am looking for is to fight just to fight. But when it comes to fighting or standing up for a teammate or sending a message to an opposing team, then that is something I would fight for.

Sign the Petition to get the NHL back on ESPN.

Here is the link
Seems like fans are not happy with the Versus coverage of the NHL and are starting a petition to get the NHL back on ESPN.
Sign it here

Goon's Predictions for the First Round.

For the six people who haven't seen them

10 UAA @ 1 UMTC in two games

9 UMD @ 2 SCSU in two games

8 MSUM @ 3 Fighting Sioux in two games

7 UW @ 4 DU in three games

6 MTU @ 5 CC in three games

Prediction:

The Gophers will get the best official that the WCHA can offer, who that is I don't have a clue? The Seawolves will be called for every infraction they commmit (hookings, holding and obstructions) this will be so the league can assure it's so called percieved top draw will make the big tourney. Also, look for DU to be called for everything as well this next weekend. I bet if we look at the Penalty numbers I will be right too. Minnesota and Wisconsin will have the lion's share of the power play opportunities.

Check this out.

Check out this article from the South Bend Tribune

You can build a team, you can grow a program in a building like this," he said, "but to sustain an elite program, to sustain it, you definitely need upgraded facilities."

North Dakota, Miami and defending NCAA champion Wisconsin are three programs on the rise after years of mediocrity. It's no coincidence that each school recently bestowed a new shiny arena on its hockey team.

Of Course when I see something that isn't quite right I have to make sure it gets corrected. Here is my letter to this guy

Dear Steve;

While you wrote a nice article and your right ND needs a new arena to replace
the dump they play in right now, North Dakota has missed the NCAA playoffs just
once in the last ten years, during that time winning two NCAA titles. They haven been mediocre for at least 11 years. In fact they were on the rise about 4 years before they moved into their new arena.

Goon

The Last Time? Sioux and Huskies.

Bobby

The Last Time the Fighting Sioux Face Bobby Goepfert

This weekend’s series has huge implications in the final standings of the WCHA; also this weekend’s tilt could solidify a NCAA tourney berth for the Fighting Sioux, according to some of the experts the Sioux would need a huge meltdown to not make the NCAA tourney now.

Also, I found a silver lining to this weekend's series between the Fighting Sioux and the SCSU Huskies; this weekend series could be the last time the Fighting Sioux have to face all world goalie Bobby Goepfert. In my opinion Bobby Goepfert is an awesome goaltender that usually doesn’t give up a lot of weak goals. To score against him the Sioux are going to have to bring their “A” game.

In the two years against Goepfert the Fighting Sioux have had moderate to limited success against Goepfert. Against Bobby the Sioux are are 3-3-1. The most goals the Sioux have ever laid on Goepfert were five during last season’s Final Five in St Paul.

Realistically, I don’t see the Sioux getting five goals either night on Goepfert unless the D.O.T. line is allowed to roam free and that won’t happen.
Score

Comparing the goalies

Here are the stats of this weekend’s probable starters.

Philippe Lamoureux, Jr GP-28 15-10-3 GAA 2.36 SV% .911

VS

Bobby Goepfert, Sr GP-27 15-6-6 GAA 2.11 SV% .931

Rumors about REA False if UND Changed the Name

Rumors not True

Just as I expected the rumors not true there has been this urban legend around Grand Forks, ND that basically said if UND changed the name Fighting Sioux the arena would be razed. Not True:

From the Dakota Stupid:

Since the arena has opened its doors, the rumors have remained, however. Many people now think that a logo or nickname change would result in UND's loss of the REA, a claim that was also emphatically denied.

"I have never heard any conversation that would lead me to believe that anything like that would happen," said Bob Gallager, UND's vice president for finance and operations.
"There's no truth to the rumors. It's a $100 million facility. It's not very realistic that they would kick out the school and leave it empty."

Kupchella also said these rumors are false, saying that the "agreement is the agreement. We would never have agreed if things like that were in there."

Jody Hodgson, general manager of the REA, said the Engelstad family remains committed to the university, but neither they, nor arena officials have plans to kick UND out if the nickname and logo were changed.

"As always, the REA will work with UND on this issue," he said.

Just as I suspected. Now we can move on and argue about something else.

This is just too funny to pass up.

What games did the Wooger watch?

Hey checkout this Link

This is classic Wooger. I realize it’s from the week before but I wonder if he would say this after the Huskies dismantled his Golden Gopher hockey team 5-1 and 5-3?

Minnesota got good goal tending last weekend, particularly on Saturday night. If you are going to win later in the season it’s not just what you get from your top dogs, but what also what everyone else can contribute. In order to win you have to get some production from the young guys. Right now Minnesota needs more steady production out of the ‘go to’ guys.

That is funny, no really it is. In Friday's game Jeff Frazee was nothing short of horrible and couldn't stop a beach ball. Lets not forget that the Minnesota defensive corps left him high and dry. On Saturday Briggsieve was only a little bit better, as the Gophers gave up a third period lead.

Gopher fans; I am not so sure we aren't watching another implosion happen right before our very eyes in Gooferville? Get your act together Gophers; Sioux fans need Minnesota to take at least 3/4 points from MTU this weekend but I don't think the Gophers can do it unless they start playing with some pride, and playing some defensive hockey. Frankly, I am not so sure they can win one game this weekend.

28 Feb Bracketology

Jason Moy predicts the Brackets

West Regional

16 Sacred Heart vs. 1 Minnesota
10 Michigan vs. 8 Denver

Midwest Regional

13 Colorado College vs. 3 Notre Dame
11 Miami vs. 6 Boston University

Northeast Regional

15 Niagara vs. 2 New Hampshire
9 North Dakota vs. 7 Maine

East Regional

14 St. Lawrence vs. 4 St. Cloud
12 Boston College vs. 5 Clarkson

First off if the Brackets shake out this way SCSU will be in the Frozen Four, you can mark it down right here, with a weak bracket like that SCSU would have a legit chance of winning it all. I also Like UND's chances of winning their regional as well. C.C. has a chance against a weak field as well but its hard to say which BU team would show up.

However, lets get realistic. Could you imagine the whining if Minnesota actually had to play in DU's regional? Face it he Gophes are prime for the picking as well, and they would fold like a cheap tent against the DU pioneers. You can also bet on there being a shit storm, tDon would make Woog's 1997 tantrum look minor. who knows maybe the committee will throw tDon a bone/pacifier and send him to Grand Rapids. I can hear it right now, that's not fair we are a number one seed and we are stuck in that brutal regional, while Notre Dame has an easy pass...

That beings said, the committee is not going to have a bracket in Grand Rapids Michigan without a Michigan team. The NC$$ is about money and would bet a lot of money Michigan will be in Grand Rapids so I suppose you could Miami to Denver and put Michigan in Grand Rapids.

Corrected Brackets.

Midwest Regional

13 Colorado College vs. 3 Notre Dame
10 Michigan vs. 6 Boston University

West Regional

16 Sacred Heart vs. 1 Minnesota
11 Miami vs. 8 Denver

The NHL Plays of the Week

No former Sioux hockey players this week. Interesting though, Kessel gets robbed, Former Huskie Ryan Malone Lamps the times for a hat trick scoring the each goal in the first minute of each period. Peter Forsberg starts earning that money they are paying him. Minnesota Wild forward Marian Gaborik scores a pretty goal.

Goon's Prediction

The way it shakes out?
I played theWhat if Calculator

Team GP Pts
UMN 28 41
SCSU 28 36
Denver 28 32
UND 28 30
CC 28 27
UW 28 26
MTech 28 25
Mankato 28 25
UMD 28 21
AA 28 17

How do we get here:
The Gophers take 4 from MTU
DU gets three points from C.C.(anything can happen here)
UMD and Wisconsin split (possible)
UND and SCSU *Since the Christmas break, UND is 11-2-2 (.781) and SCSU is 10-3-3 (.719) From PCM Sioux Sports

Lucia Says he is Sorry

Ice intelligence

Read the whole article right here at St Cloud Times Article

A nice play with words

All week we talked about playing smart," said Huskies sophomore John Swanson, who snapped a 10-game pointless streak with two assists. "Keep your feet moving and keep your stick on their stick and try to avoid taking penalties."

On the same day a Twin Cities newspaper quoted Gophers coach Don Lucia as saying it was easier to get a player into St. Cloud State than Minnesota academically, his team came out and matched its worst margin of defeat this season.

The Huskies, ranked fourth and fifth in the national polls, also sent the message that they can keep up offensively with any team in the nation. The No. 2 Gophers had the second-best offense in the country coming in.

"I've never played in front of a crowd like this before and you could tell before the game there was a buzz in the locker room," said Lasch, who was goalless in the past three series and scored as often Friday as he had in the past 17 games. "It was different. I can't explain it, but everyone had a jump in their step."

The second-place Huskies used it to move five points behind the first-place Gophers with three WCHA regular-season games remaining.

Another implosion coming?

By the time Brocklehurst capped it, the Dogg Pound was in vintage form. The students chanted "Overrated!" and "Husky Rejects!" among other unprintable words that have also rankled Lucia. Afterward, Gophers assistant Mike Guentzel could be heard screaming at his team in the dressing room. Lucia declined to reiterate the comments he made about St. Cloud State's academic reputation.

"I don't want to go there," Lucia said. "I did talk to (Motzko)."

Huskies athletic director Morris Kurtz said Lucia apologized.

"They were gracious enough to accept our apology, so we're certainly gracious enough to accept theirs," Kurtz said, referring to a scene the last time Minnesota played in St. Cloud when several giveaway novelty fans landed on the ice. This time they were replaced by several actual dead gophers.

"I've been to a few, and I don't remember one like this," Swanson, a St. Cloud Tech graduate, said of the Huskies-Gophers games at the Hockey Center. "You know it's going to be a good night when you drive down to the rink and the line is already out the ticket office. Then when you come out for warm-ups the student sections are already full. It makes the game that much more intense."

Tonight is sure to repeat, and with a win the Huskies can claim a cup of their own away from Minnesota: The DQ Cup, given to the state school with the best winning percentage among others in the WCHA.

"We haven't won anything yet," Gophers captain Mike Vannelli said. "We didn't play with a sense of desperation. We didn't play hard and we didn't play smart Gopher hockey. Some things needed to be said (by Guentzel) and it's better to air our dirty laundry now than in a few weeks."

Don't Say That

I was told along time ago that you never publicly talk down your opponent and give them fuel for the fire. It's called bulletin board material and Donny gave the Huskies a bunch of it this past week. I believe Don Lucia's comments about SCSU fired them up even more. One must wonder if another implosion is coming to a rink near the Twin Cities?

Round Two Sens and Sabres

This actually was a pretty exciting game. Chris Neil with another dirty hit on a Buffalo player. It's been reported that Neil admitted to wanting to go out and injury people with his hits. Stay tuned it could get even better.

Lucia is Whinning Again.

Come on tDon

Seems this past week Lucia seems to have had foot in mouth disease.
First tDon said that:

When it comes to rivalries, I would say they are third right now," Gophers coach Don Lucia said. "I don't think they will ever surpass Wisconsin and North Dakota because there is so much history involved with those schools."

"It's not very expensive to go to school at St. Cloud," Lucia said. "If Denver gives a kid a half-scholarship, it still costs the player $20,000. At St. Cloud, a half-scholarship costs the kid $5,000.

"And it's a lot easier to get a kid into St. Cloud [academically] than it is to get a kid into here. As long as you are [an academic] qualifier, you can get into school there."

Now tDon is complaining about the behavior of the fans in the stands at Saint Cloud State University. More tDon Whinning

Much to the Gophers' displeasure, a number of hand-held, battery-operated fans handed out prior to the Nov. 11 game ended up thrown in the direction of the Gophers. Gophers coach Don Lucia said it wasn't the first time the Gophers had been subjected to such behavior in St. Cloud, adding, "We're sick of it."

Lucia met briefly with Kurtz after the game and said something had to be done.

"We were disappointed because we had hired extra security and we wanted to provide a wonderful atmosphere for home and visiting fans," Kurtz said. "We did not expect the giveaways to end up on the ice with the extra security we hired."

Kurtz said six fans were caught throwing the fans on the ice. Four were St. Cloud State students and two were students from the University of Minnesota.

"We dealt with our students and sent the two IDs to the University of Minnesota," Kurtz said.

Kurtz said he apologized to Lucia and Gophers athletic director Joel Maturi. But Lucia said he still expects Huskies fans to "cross the line" with abusive language.

"It's as bad there as anywhere," Lucia said. "The fans are great, they're into it, they pack the place. I just don't like the swearing and all the stuff that goes with it.

"A 12-year-old kid who is there shouldn't be subjected to that. Too many times, as administrators, we look the other way. And I think that's wrong."

The funny part of this article is that two of the 6 students caught throwing stuff on the ice were UMN fans. This is classic stuff here. In reviewing tDon's comments this week it would appear that this was a tough week for him. My advice to the Minnesota coach is shut up and play some hockey. I am also wondering if his comments about getting into SCSU had anything to do with inspiring the Huskies as they shredded the Gophers hockey team this past weekend. I would be willing to bet that Hakston won't be giving the Huskies any bulletin board marterial this week nor will he be insulting the SCSU students or their fans.

Duncan Deserves to be A Hobey Finalist

Hobey Duncan?
There is no doubt in my mind that Ryan deserves to be a Hobey Baker Memorial finalist this season. Ryan is ranked third in the nation in points per game.
NCAA Stats

1 Eric Ehn Air Force JR F 36 24-36-60 1.67
2 T.J. Hensick (COA) Michigan SR F 36 17-39-56 1.56
3 Ryan Duncan North Dakota SO F 34 27-21-48 1.41
4 Kevin Porter (PHO) Michigan JR F 36 19-31-50 1.39

Ryan is also leading the WCHA in goals, power play goals as well as points. In addition to these honors that Duncan currently hold, Ryan is also the leader in the WCHA in game winning goals. One last reason I believe that Duncan is worthy of winning a Hobey Baker is that Ryan is ranking these points up against the toughest competition in college hockey not a league full of patsies. On the radio broadcast last night Tim Hennesey said that Duncan should be the League MVP, I couldn't agree more with that assessment.

Sabres and Senators Feb 22nd, 2007

I am Watching the Rematch Tonight



Couple of things that I thought were bush league: There is no doubt Chris Neil tried to hurt Drury with his questionable high hit to the face, it was rightfully called a penalty. While I agree with Barry Melrose that it wasn't an elbow it was a a dirty questionable hit. I believe that Ruff was responding to it, by sending out his group of goons/hacks. Ruff made a statement and said basically, if your going to hit my star players with questionable hits I am going to do the same things to your star players. Hence, Ruff sent out a line of goons against one of the top lines in the NHL.

The message was recieved. Funny thing is there might be more of this in the future because of the way Ruff over reacted in this situation. Ruff could have waited till Chris Neil was done serving his penalty then send out one of his goon's to challenge Neil to a fight. Neil is known to shy away from a fight and would have in escense settled this thing. By over reacting this incident is going to probably boil over and fester into tonight's game as well.

Finally I think Emery is a hack, when he was laying on his sparing partner should have quit throwing punches he didn't. I believe that is why Peters came over to fight him and finally Peters fighting a goalie crossed the line and someone should have responded but who from the Senators would have gotten into it, one of the many stars on the ice.

Sioux 7 Addresses the Officating in the WCHA.

The Officating

I have beening stewing about the whole ref situation in the WCHA.

How can a league with so much talent, on all the teams, have such sub-standard officials.

I know they get reviewed and even get graded. So why don't they publish their scores... if they did we could see who is passing with an "A" or "B" and who is average with a "C" and who needs some improvement with a "D" or if they are failing with an "F" its time to go back down the ladder to juniors or high school reffing.

Can't we get some old college players as refs. Like some from out in H.E. for example they have some good players that don't make the pro's. They know the rules and can match the speed of the game.

Or maybe the W needs a a two ref system. So the players know that they cannot get away with as much clutch-n-grab-n-hook as they do now.

I think the the situation right now is good for any WCHA team going into the NCAA. The other ref's in other leagues will be calling the games. This means good offensive teams wouldn't be impedded as they are in the W. Which should result in a number of power play opportunities.

I also believe poor officiating is why you see some "altercations" in games. Players get frustrated when they are being hooked and held and the ref's aren't calling it, especially on "offensive scoring opportunities."

Just my 7 cents worth.

Lucia calls SCSU a second Rate School.

Check out this Statement by tDon
Check out what Don Lucia said about SCSULink to the article

Lucia points out that every program has its advantages.

"It's not very expensive to go to school at St. Cloud," Lucia said. "If Denver gives a kid a half-scholarship, it still costs the player $20,000. At St. Cloud, a half-scholarship costs the kid $5,000.

"And it's a lot easier to get a kid into St. Cloud [academically] than it is to get a kid into here. As long as you are [an academic] qualifier, you can get into school there."

Did Lucia just call SCSU a second rate school. For 20,000.00 you can get someone else to do your home work for you too. Just kidding.

Links to the DU and UND series

Linkorama

Here are some of the links:
Let's Go DU
Brad's Blog GF Herald
For Stats
Denver post
Brad's Grand Forks Herald Article

DU and UND, time to get it on.

DU and UND

This weekend series between the UND Fighting Sioux and DU Pioneers is an important series to say the least. This weekends games will also feature the first game Robbie Bina and Jeff Paukovich have played together since the illegal checking from behind incident at the 2005 Final Five that left Robbie Bina nearly paralyzed, Bina has since made a full recovery and is playing a big role on this years team. Jeff Paukovich has been scoring more frequently as of late and has 7 goals and 9 assists for 16 points.

Pauko

Time to Forget About Paukovich

Although I was very unhappy of seeing what transpired during the 2005 final five when Robbie was carried off the ice on a stretcher and Jeff Paukovich sat in the penalty box smirking. It’s over.

This series is an important one; it’s about getting important league points and securing home ice and a trip to the NCAA tourney. This series isn’t about settling scores and taking selfish penalties. Face it Sioux fans the kid is never going to drop the gloves and fight; a lot of believed the issue would have been settled if Jeff would have simply dropping the mitts and fought someone, getting it over with for good, but he wouldn’t and wont. So with that being said, I believe it’s time to Sioux fans to forget about it and move on.

Robbie Bina Makes a Come Back

Robbie Bina after sitting out a year on a medical red shirt has come back and played like a man possessed. I believe it wasn't for his Judy's Bar incident he might be getting some love in the Hobey Baker voting. Historically Bina is not usually known for his offensive prowess is ranked 5th on the team in points as he has scored 8 goals and 12 assists. One of the goals made sports center and was ranked the number one view clip on YouTube.



Bad Blood Between two Heated Rivals.

To say there is a lot of bad blood between these two teams is an understatement, the Pioneers and Sioux have an extensive storied history the last four years, with some heated battles, there has also been a lot of talking on the ice and some rough play. The games have been fun to watch and neither team likes the other very much as well.

DU and UND historically

DU has beaten UND 3 times to win a National Championship. In my opinion, there is no time like the present to turn the tables on Denver Pioneers; it’s time for the Fighting Sioux to take some of that back what is rightfully theirs.

Former Fighting Sioux hockey player Mike Prpich once said, “they stole two rings off our fingers in referring to the 2004 and in 2005 season. Really, the only thing that kept the Sioux from winning another national title was the Denver Pioneers. Both teams have 7 NCAA titles 7=7.

Check out this Picture of Belfour.

Belfour with the Mullet
I found this picture of former Sioux goalie Eddie Belfour over on Waiting for Stanley check out the mullet.

Belfour Reaches Milestone

Feb 13th, 2007 Eddie Belfour reached 76 shutout for his professional career. That ties him with hockey great Tony Esposito, an impressive feat in my opinion.

Prpich Checks Paukovich's cup

This should bring back some memories from last years series between the Pioneers and the Fighting Sioux. Gwoz snaps and gets kicked out of the game. I didn't realize that Gwoz was that short.

This one shows the whole incident including the snap by the DU coach.

WCHA Strength of Schedule

Check out the WCHA's SOS
I didn't know about this till my buddy Sioux7 told me about this.
This is really telling how tough the WCHA is.

1.) 18 Wisconsin .5250 30t 14-15-3 .4844 .5386
2.) 27 Minnesota State .5045 42 11-17-6 .4118 .5354
3.) 4 St. Cloud State .5761 5 18-6-6 .7000 .5348
4.) 1 Minnesota .6030* 2 25-5-3 .8030 .5343
5.) 8 North Dakota .5487 16t 17-11-4 .5938 .5337
6.) 15 Colorado College .5352 24 16-13-3 .5469 .5313
7.) 32 Alaska-Anchorage .4997 41 12-17-3 .4219 .5257
8.) 21 Michigan Tech .5144 30t 13-14-5 .4844 .5244
9.) 37 Minnesota-Duluth .4866 48t 10-18-4 .3750 .5238
10.) 7 Denver .5502 12 20-11-3 .6324 .5228

This is how the WCHA matches up against the other high ranked teams.
3 Notre Dame .5765* 1 26-5-3 .8088 40 .4984
5 Clarkson .5588 4 20-7-5 .7031 18 .5107
6 BU .5561 6 17-5-9 .6935 20 .5103

The Latest Projections for UND in the NCAA Tourney

I say bring it on
Here is the latest prediction from
Matt Latham It looks like the Fighting Sioux need to win a couple of big games on the road to get their road bonus up there, it appears that a few of the Sioux opponents dropped from being a TUC. That won't be a problem with a couple of wins or ties against DU and SCSU.

NCAA Projections *Updated* (2-18-07)
East (Rochester, NY; Host: ECACHL)
1. St. Cloud State (18-6-6, #4 PWR)
2. Clarkson (20-7-5, #5 PWR)
3. North Dakota (17-11-4, #12 PWR)
4. Michigan State (18-11-3, #13 PWR)

West (Denver, CO; Host: Denver U)
1. Notre Dame (26-5-3, #3 PWR) *auto*
2. Boston U (17-5-9, #6 PWR)
3. Denver U (20-11-3, T-#8 PWR)
4. St. Lawerence (19-11-2, T-#16 PWR) *auto*

Midwest Regional (Grand Rapids, MI; Host: Western Michigan)
1. Minnesota (25-5-3, #1 PWR) *auto*
2. Maine (19-10-2, #7 PWR)
3. Michigan (22-11-1, T-#8 PWR)
4. Sacred Heart (19-9-4, UNR PWR) *auto*

Northeast (Manchester, NH; Host: New Hampshire)
1. New Hampshire (22-6-2, #2 PWR) *auto*
2. Miami U (22-10-4, T-#8 PWR)
3. Boston College (18-11-1, T-#8 PWR)
4. Niagara (17-11-4, T-#21 PWR) *auto*

Last 2 In: North Dakota, Michigan State
First 2 Out: Colorado College, Vermont

Running with the Dog's preview to the UMD and UND Hockey Series.

A Bulldog Primer

by Runninwiththedogs

Hello, Fighting Sioux Fans! In case you were unaware, your opponents this weekend are the UMD Bulldogs. I just thought I’d be helpful and give you the inside scoop on our boys, in case your scouts were busy at Judy’s or something.

Forwards
Drew Akins: Grinder and sporadic scorer of points.
Andrew Carroll: Might punch you in the face. Bulldog captain and grinder.
Mike Curry: Can kill you just by looking at you. RWD favorite, so LAY OFF, SUCKA.
Jordan Fulton: Came to the ‘Dogs straight from high school (unfortunately, it was Breck.) Better than Okposo (or would be if he had Crazy as a linemate, too.)
Michael Gergen: Former standout at Shattuck-St. Mary’s. Yes, you read that correctly.
Logan Gorsalitz: Penalty kill specialist who will see regular playing time next year. Unlikely for this series.
Matt Greer: Grinder and occasional goal-scorer.
Nick Kemp: Hometown boy. Nicknamed Kemper the Wrecker. Will drop the gloves if needed.
Jeff McFarland: One of the best PKers in the WCHA. Stepped up offensively this year as well.
Bryan McGregor: Shorthanded sniper, with 3 SHGs on the year. Occasionally misses on a clean breakaway/penalty shot.
Matt McKnight: Bulldog co-captain and RWD favorite.
Mason Raymond: Faster than a speeding bullet and more powerful than a locomotive.
MacGregor Sharp: Bruce Ciskie says he is hot. RWD concurs.

Defensemen
Jay Cascalenda: Has mostly been playing defense but could potentially be a forward. Will probably not be in the lineup due to Garrison’s return.
Jason Garrison: Noted Denver killer. Returning to the ice this weekend after a long absence due to injury.
Travis Gawryletz: Nicknamed Grawler, no longer has exceptionally long hair.
Ryan Geris: The old man of the team. Nearly retired from hockey due to some cheap asses giving him concussions.
Josh Meyers: Power play sniper, he has only one even-strength goal, an empty-netter against Denver.
Matt Niskanen: Iron Range stud, second on tDogs in points. Scored a goal for MSU-M, symbolizing the low point of this season. RWD favorite.
Trent Palm: First Bulldog from the USNTDP. Cake-eater from Edina.
Chase Ryan: Freshman who likes the physical game. Unlikely for this weekend.

Goaltenders
Josh Johnson: Probable Saturday starter.
Alex Stalock: Probable Friday starter. Offensive threat as well.
Nate Ziegelmann: Former goaltender at UND. Be sure to say hi when you pass him in the stands.

Coaches
Lee Davidson: Former UND assistant coach, in case you forgot.
Steve Rohlik: May melt your face off just by yelling.
Scott Sandelin: Former UND assistant coach. Currently in the doghouse with many UMD fans. Not going to be bought out, so stop asking.
Bill Watson: Hobey Baker winner, scoring machine, helper of old ladies crossing streets, wearer of bow ties, drinker of booze. Lots and lots of booze. Or so I hear.

Bloggers
Bruce Ciskie: Radio hack who never blogs about hockey anymore. Only NASCAR and college football.
FullDECC: Sporadic blogger about UMD and high school hockey.
Runninwiththedogs: Escapee from a local mental asylum.

Read the Goon's guewst article at Gooning it Up I would like to thank Running with the Dogs for being given the opportunity to write for her blog this week. Goon is a religious reader of RWD's blog spot.

Good College Hockey Fight.

This should get you read for the game tonight. I know this is from a couple of years back but it was a good bout. The Announcer kind of sounds like a homer. Just kidding Scott. Udovich for Bemidji State and Priewe for the Air Force Academy in a hockey fight from Feb. 8, 2002 at the John Glas Fieldhouse in Bemidji, Minnesota.

So This isn't Hostile and Abusive?

Horse S#!t
Thanks to SoCalSioux from USCHO for bringing this to my attention. The NCAA has deemed that the University of North Dakota Fighting Sioux to be hostile and abusive. Funny thing is you will never see the Tomahawk chop ever done at REA, the Betty or the Alerus. Sucks to be us doesn't it. Personally I want it to be known that I like FSU football, beat the Gators. I just hate the NCAA's stupidity. End of Rant.

When you see the World through Maroon and Gold Shades

I found this over on Gopher Puck Live

skiumah2 said: The Gophers won 7 straight games at the X from the 2002 Frozen Four through the 2004 Final 5. 2 Frozen Four games, 4 Final 5 games, and one non conference game against Ohio St. Those Gopher teams were 3 of the best Minnesota squads ever. It's understandable they had success during that time period. They likely win those games no matter where they play them. Minnesota also won 1 Final 5 at the old Civic Center and 2 Final 5's in Milwaukee. They didn't win any of the Final 5's played at Target Center. With the exception of the fore mentioned 7 game run, Minnesota hasn't really faired any better than any of the other top dogs in the WCHA, especially when the event has been in the Twin Cities. In fact, Minnesota's winning percentage is extremely higher at the Bradley Center then it is at the Civic Center, Target Center, or the Xcel Center. While the Gophers have always had the "home ice" type crowd support, playing at the X has not given Minnesota any significant advantage over the rest of the WCHA. At least in terms of on ice results.

Also, the "Minnesota Rule" that demands Minnesota play the Friday night game even if they are in the 2 or 3 seed spot. That doesn't help them in any way at all. I love when opposing fans bring that one up. I agree its unfair, but it's an unfairness that doesn't give Minnesota any advantage what so ever. I've never understood how people think it is.

I have to hand to him that is a funny rant; I am not sure how this guys is able to say this with a straight face. We listen to the same thing every year. This season there is no doubt that the Gophers are going to be awarded the McNaughten Anchor, no body is going to catch them, not even the Huskies, but what if the Gophers were having a bit of a down year in the standing? There is no way that person could say with a straight face that the Minnesota Rule doesn't help them. Yeah; Ok. Here is a suggestion, lets say the Gophers give the Minnesota rule up then. Right, it will never happen.

Seriously, lets get real. The Minnesota Rule is totally advantagious to the Gophers, there is not doubt about it. Especially if the winner of the play in game is supposed to play the number one seed and ends up playing in the 2:00 PM game. I am sure most Gopher fans would say, "finish your season better". Personally I really don't have a big problem with the league wanting to capitalise on revenue because it gets split 10 different ways, but don't insult people intelegience with those type of statements.

Western College Hockey: NCAA Tourney Projections

Western College Hockey: NCAA Tourney Projections

Here are the Latest Bracket prediction for UND

Northeast (Manchester, NH; Host: New Hampshire)

1. New Hampshire (22-5-1, #1 PWR)
2. North Dakota (16-11-3, #8 PWR)
3. Boston U (15-5-8, #9 PWR)
4. Sacred Heart (17-8-4, UNR PWR)

This Bracket doesn't scare me very much, UNH is known for chocking in the big game at the wrong time. Let's remind everyone that there is a lot hockey left (5 weeks left) until the NCAA's. UND needs to keep playing well to get into the NCAA tourney. A lot can happen and the Sioux are assured of nothing.

Sioux and Dogs

The Rivalry Continues

Tonight the Bull Dogs and Sioux renew an old feud. You could say it’s the highway 2 match up. The Sioux have been hot as of late going on a 7-0-2 run since the first of the year and are 1-12 against the Bull Dogs in the last 13 games the Bull Dogs have also lost 6 in a row to the Sioux as well as seven in a row at the REA, throw those records out because they mean nothing. The Sioux on paper should sweep this weekend but hockey is played on ice and not on paper. Stats mean nothing right now. During the last 10 games the Bull Dogs are 6-4 and will prove to be one of the tough challenge, the Sioux should not be over looking the Bull Dogs or they very well could be traveling for the WCHA playoffs and left out of the NCAA playoffs.

The Bulldogs have the number one ranked power play in the NCAA while the Fighting Sioux are ranked 6th. That should not bode well for the Fighting Sioux if they continue to have a parade to the penalty box. The Sioux are ranked 50th nationally on the penalty kill while the Bull Dogs are ranked 41st over all nationally on the penalty kill, so staying out of the penalty box would be a good idea this weekend, because special teams are going to be key this weekend. The Sioux are 10-5-2 in their last 17 games.

Important Links for the Weekend's Series:

Here are the must see links for this weekend's series.
Running With The Dogs
Deck is Stacked
Deck Is Stacked Live Journal
tPenalty Box
Brad's Blog
Duluth News Tribune

Lets not get ahead of our selves

The Kiss of Death?
Found this in the Duluth News and Tribune: All I can say is let's not get ahead of our selves just yet there is a lot of hockey left to be played. One game at a time.

North Dakota on streak

North Dakota’s season has been anything but dull.
Article Link

After two straight trips to the NCAA Frozen Four, the Fighting Sioux found themselves 7-10-1 on Dec. 16. Since then, they’ve gone 9-1-2 (including a current Division I-best nine-game unbeaten streak) and have all but secured a berth in the 16-team NCAA tournament. North Dakota (16-11-3) is No. 9 in the PairWise Rankings and fifth in the WCHA, holding onto the final home playoff spot.

Linkorama: New Hockey Blog

Check out this new blog

Kyle Whitney has a new blog Tech Still Sucks. Incidentally, I don't think Mean Girl is going to be a big fan of the blog. LOL.

One of the features of the blog is; Northern Michigan University has an awesome player named Mike Santorelli who has been unfairly snubbed by the Hobkey Baker fan voting. There is a Mike Santorelli Watch posted in the left margin of the blog. It really is a travesty that Mike Santorelli is second in the nation in goal scoring with 26 goals but he isn't getting a lot attention from the Hobey Baker Committee. Also, Ryan Duncan from the University of North Dakota is sitting in the third spot with 22 goals. Ryan was initially left off the fan vote as well.

Patrice Bergeron Stars in an Awesome Highlite Reel.

One Awesome Forward
This is a sweet highlite reel that I found of the Bruins super forward Patrice Bergeron, the face of the Boston Bruins franchise. Some Fighting Sioux fans got to see him play in person during the 2005 WJC tourney that was held up in Grand Forks, ND.

Just a note of interest; Bochenski is the new face on the team, Bergeron is the face of the franchise in my opinion.

Friday Night at the Fights. Sioux and Mavs Goon it up.

Ole Time Hockey

My advice to the Sioux players is if your going to get kicked outof a game for fighting please fight, take a page from Prp's or Kaips book, if your going to pay for it, make it count because your going to be sitting out anyways. I respect Lee for not turtling, but you got into a fight throw some punches. don't look for the ref to bail you out.

Wearing my green shades I believe the Maverick Players they should have been given instigator penatlies for starting this fight(s). Whats up with them pulling off the Sioux player's helments. That must be something they learned in juniors.

Sioux7 Addresses Expansion of the CHA

Something to Think About

I was on goon's blog the other day and I was thinking about the whole
Conference alignment thing, with the CHA going down. I think some
Schools should move IN to the CHA.

Here are the teams I think should move to the CHA

Mankato State haven't been it the WCHA for that long, and
location)
Northern Michigan location, and moved to CCHA from WCHA in 1993)
Lake Superior State (location)

This would make 10 teams in CCHA, 9 in WCHA, and 8 in CHA, so it would
be a little more balanced in terms of numbers.

The CHA would then be a better conference. For instance, nobody likes
to play Mankato, since they tend to surprise many times by splitting
series or taking 3-of-4 points when you least expect it. Northern
Michigan has a good history of winning in the NCAA tourney, the won it
all back in 1991. Same for Lake Superior State, they too have gone all
the way, twice (correct me if I'm wrong). As for the existing schools,
Bemidji has the most titles at any level for hockey, enough said.

Note* These are not the Goon's suggestions, but from a guest writer.
All remarks should be directed at Sioux7

You can't Start Sucks with out NDSU!!!

The Class that Oozes from Fargo Beat Writers

I think this subject needs to be put to bed, finally. In fact I promise this will probably be the last time that I right/comment on this ridiculously minor petty incident; an incident that should have never consumed this much of of the media's time. It appears finally a news story will probably take over the head lines soon, hopefully it will be about a hockey game that was played on the ice and not in the papers. Its unfortunate that this non-story has grown legs and is now sprinting toward the finish line.

In a way I actually missed the banter between the two towns and programs and in fact I kind of missed the half cocked theories and misinformation that used to come out of sewer known as the Fargo Forum; especially from it’s sports writers, ah but good times lie ahead as Mike McFeely true to his form was able to take his usual back handed mean swipe at UND, all we need now is a good trashing of the Bison Football team by the Fighting Sioux. I suppose McFeely anger is a result of program envy or he must be a big fan of the Gophers, or just ignorant. I take the later.

Welcome back you partisan hack. Where have you been the last few years. Now Mike McFeely has taken it upon himself to decide for the rest of us what is an appropriate response to this off ice MINOR incident . The reason I think this is a lot to do about nothing; especially when my Gopher loving buddies that are Gophers fans don’t even call me after this incent I know they also see it as a minor incident as well. Chalk it up to a slow news week.

Here is some of the latest to come out of Bison apologist Mike McFeely Mike's Drivel and an even more slanted readMcFeely's Blog

Hakstol’s response comical

Dave Hakstol might have a surprise in store for us. He might just be playing mind games with those pesky Mavericks from Minnesota State Mankato. He might yet keep his law-breaking three players out of the University of North Dakota hockey lineup this weekend.

But we doubt it. Which means Hakstol, the Sioux’s coach, has blown Taverngate. Sioux stars T.J. Oshie and Jonathan Toews were charged this week with being minors in a Grand Forks establishment named Judy’s Tavern. Teammate Robbie Bina was cited with the more serious charge of escaping custody for allegedly opening the door of a police car.
The problems happened Jan. 28, a Sunday. The Coaching Common Sense Handbook, used by 98 percent of all college coaches, says Hakstol’s course was simple: The following Monday or Tuesday, Wednesday at the very latest, the coach should have issued a statement saying Oshie and Toews would be suspended for one game against Mankato and Bina would sit both games, with the possibility of more punishment down the road.
Poof! Players punished, story disappears. All in one fell swoop. Easy as an empty-netter.

Goon Goes in the Zone

My question to Mike is why does the media get to decide what is the proper punishment is supposed to be? YOUR NOT EVEN A BEAT WRITER FOR A HOCKEY TEAM, you’re a sports writer for a second rate basketball and football team, and you write for a horrible sports page. The fact that your blog states your address is in Moorhead takes more of your credibility away, in my humble opinion. Let me guess your part of the Fargo/Moorhead area’s any body but the Sioux in hockey. You probably wear a Minnesota Gophers t-shirt under you work attire. Good for you.

The last time I talk about this

Lets break this down for the final time: If a DWI is a 2 game suspension then a one game suspension for a minor in a bar is an over kill, in my opinion. A one game suspension for the theft of pull-tabs in a bar in another town doesn’t equate or call for the same punishment for a minor being in a bar, we don’t even know if there were drinking. Lets not go there. I know that 85% of the population had done what these kids are being crucified for. If in fact that these underage adults were actually drinking alcoholic beverages in the bar in question still doesn’t change the fact that this minor infraction does not warrant a one game suspension or as much focus from the media as it has gotten. Its time for us to move on, my god there is a war going on and this is all we can talk about? I am moving on I am going to a hockey game tonight.

Here is a perfect reponse to McFeely from an Unknow writer on his blog:
its priceless and I think will put this to bed. Lastly I agree with this writer only I am sure even the national inquirer has standards that McFeely couldn't meet.

This guy hits the mark

Ignorance is not a good trait to have when one such as yourself has a forum to purge your hasty, uneducated, and uninformed opinions. Isn't it in Journalism 101 to make sure you've got all the facts straight before you publish an article? Clearly, prudent journalism is not your strength. Perhaps may I suggest that your style of careless writing be better suited working for one of those tabloid magazines like The National Enquirer. There McFeely, you can spew your uninformed rants of untruths and false speculations and the foolish audiences that read such publications may actually believe the substandard, incompetent crap you base your writing career on. I believe you may have failed to review your Journalists Common Sense Handbook when you wrote this piece of blasphemy.


One is quite the judge and jury when not sitting in the chair aren't we? From the moment this hit the news, Hakstol has stood firm on dealing with the situation internally, as any other family, corporation or other group usually chooses to do when a predicament unfolds. I would be all too careful to make hasty judgments before we see what Hakstol and the rest of the coaching staff has in store for these young men. Perhaps we will see them using their talents within the community or with others to give back for their mistakes….rather than waste them sitting out a game or two, which teaches them nothing about the game of LIFE.


None of us are inside that locker room and therefore have no right to judge completely because we do not have all the facts. What will come of this, we will see. Until then, it is my opinion that we should respect the boundaries that have been set and allow the coaches and staff to deal with the situation as they see fit. Anyone who remotely knows or has even slightly observed Hakstol during his tenure on the bench for UND would clearly be able to tell that this man will not let these players get away with this type of behavior without repercussions for their actions and also hopefully, walking away with a life lesson.


You’re a D list public figure McFeely, therefore you’re up for scrutiny too right? So, conceivably one day, when you have underhandedly made a mistake or perchance your child gets into trouble, I will look forward to an article on how you publicly deal with it, relaying every conversation in detail so all of us can sit in your courtroom as judge and jury.

Posted by: Boxer on 2/09/2007 11:56 AM

The latest on the incident. Looks like all will be playing tonight just as I predicted. McFeely is going to be beside himself.

The Sioux players apologized to the public with statements released by UND on Wednesday.

"It's very important to me that all of you know this is being dealt with in a disciplinary fashion, it will be much more time-consuming and hopefully have a much greater impact on our guys than sitting out a game or two," Hakstol said.

"And that's where it's going to stay. I guess we'll see how things turn out in the long run."

Goon's World Makes Appearance on Lets Go Mav's

Linkorama

For the four people that didn't read my article at Lets Go Mav's you can read my latest rant/article right here at Guest Writer

Judy's Scandle

Look for the players involved in the off ice scandle to play this weekend.
That is just my guess. Hakstol wouldn't say either way, but in so many words he said its been dealt with internally, and I take the blame for it.

Ryan Bakken also said on Blog Post

My best guess? UND will wait to rule on Bina until the court case is settled, which could be until after the season. And Toews and Oshie, who were the minors on the premises? Hakstol told local media he won't comment until Wednesday. However, he was quoted in the Winnipeg media a few days ago as saying that Toews won't face any further punishment. Now, unless he was misquoted (doubtful) or unless he changes his mind (even more doubtful) it looks as though both will be skating this weekend.

Lastly: Goon's prediction:

I am confident that the Sioux will get at least 2 points this weekend , the Sioux have to get points this weekend if they want to stay in the race for home ice in the WCHA playoffs. If the Sioux don't at least split I will wear a MSU-M Mav's Jersy to the Final Five with the name Goon on the back.

Finally I have been accused wrongly as being a closet Mavericks Fan. Just for the record I am not a closet Mav's fan although I do respect the way the Mavericks play hockey. They come to play every night and they give you a battle.

The New Bracketology: Feb. 7, 2007 is up.

Jayson Moy Predicts the Brackets
Bracketology
The brackets as we have set them up:
West Regional:

St. Lawrence vs. Notre Dame
Vermont vs. Denver

Midwest Regional:

Bemidji State vs. Minnesota
Michigan vs. Clarkson

East Regional:

Michigan State vs. St. Cloud
North Dakota vs. Maine

Northeast Regional:

Sacred Heart vs. New Hampshire
Boston University vs. Colorado College

It looks like Denver would have the easiest route to the Frozen Four if these were the final brackets. Minnesota would have to face Michigan but they have beaten them soundly already, would probably be a well attended regional. Could be an all WCHA Frozen Four again. Look for many changes before tourney time. The Fighting Sioux did well last time they were sent out east.

Brandon Bochenski gets his First Goal With the B's

Bo's Goal

Bochenski scores his first goal with the Bruins his third of the year in the NHL, you can see the goal at 51 seconds into the youtube video. In his first game former Fighting Sioux great Brandon Bochenski skated on a make shift first line with Bruins Forwards Marc Savard and P.J. Axelson. Also, Glen Murray and Marco Strum were out with injuries so that facilitated Brandon's assention to the top line last night. Phil Kessel now 3 for 3 on the shoot out and all of his goals have been game ending shootout goals.

Lets Go Mavs Guest Writter

Hello Sioux Fans! Let me introduce myself, I’m Ms. LetsGoMavs. I have a little blog that gained fame courtesy of your own Mr. Goon.

Goon asked me to write up a little blurb about the Maverick Hockey team as they travel to REA this weekend. Bare with me folks, I’m the exact opposite of the Goonster…since I’m a female liberal democrat who does not shoot things. Thus, I’m guessing my guest spot on Goon’s World will be a little different than the format you’re used to reading. Hang in there and hopefully I can teach you a little bit about Maverick Hockey.

The biggest question most people have is “Who are the guys to watch?” The main guy to watch is Travis Morin, our co-captain. There is a good reason this kid is a Hobey candidate. He’s got some of the best hands in college hockey, excellent skating skills and reads plays well. Many people wondered how Morin was going to do without Backes this season, and he hasn’t disappointed any. Sure, the and Backes made one hell of a team…but Morin is holding his own without Backes. Morin is a clean player who will stuff a goal home from angles that you would never think a puck could be shot from. Watch him (#27) and enjoy. [edit: this is valid if Morin plays. Today’s paper noted that Morin, Kalinski, and Stewart were injured on Saturday and held out of practice on Monday. At this time, it’s unknown if they’ll play this weekend.]

The next guy to watch is Jon Kalinski. This kid is fast. You’ll notice him most on your power play because before you know it, he’s stolen the puck from your guy and is on the breakaway. He leads the Mavericks on short handed goals and he’s a very scrappy player. He’s that guy that you love to have on your team and hate to play against. He’s always got his jaw flapping and gets under just about every players skin. Sadly, he sometimes flaps it too much to the ref, and he spends his fair time in the box. He’s a fun little player to watch, so keep your eyes on #37 and watch the theatrics! This, of course, is only valid if he’s playing this weekend. Last weekend in OT he got smashed into the boards pretty hard and left the ice in pain. We’re hoping he’s ok for the weekend, or the Mavs will really suffer.

Want to know the guy who doesn’t shoot the puck much, but tends to score when he does? That’ll be Joel Hanson. He’s a smart player that has good aim and a hard slap shot that will fly past most goalies. To tell you how good he is, Bobby Goepfert hates this kid, and he always burns Bobby. More than likely he’ll light up your goalie at least twice this weekend.

Mick Berge is also good for a goalie light up. He’s a hard nosed player that fights to the finish and will keep at it until he scores a goal. His numbers are down this year, due to a broken shoulder blade early in the season, but that’s misleading. He’s dangerous on the ice and quite talented in front of the goal.

Another forward with a ton of talent is Kael Mouillierat (pronounced Mall Rat…kick ass name!). He’s good at handling the puck and shooting it at the right times, along with making good passes at the right time. He’s a strong Canadian player with a lot of potential.

Speaking of Canadians, once more you’re going to see is Kurtis Kisio. Though he’s a little guy, he’ll take on any sized guy. I’m pretty sure he has little man syndrome, so he’s always ready to kick ass. He’s the player who took a full hard skate at Briggs to check him…just to show the Gophers what he thought of them touching our goalie. He too likes to throw the punches. Sadly, I think this kid lives off his name (dad played in the NHL) more than talent. However, he usually has a couple of games where he does awesome and scores a few goals. I haven’t seen that yet, so maybe this weekend is THE weekend!

Jerad Stewart and Geoff Irwin round out the forwards to be watching for. These two had the two goals of our last game, and both have talent for scoring when there’s a lot of traffic in front of the net.

Our most lethal defenseman is Steve Wagner. He’s got one hell of a slap shot and generally is knowing for having goals fly on the one timer. He plays the game smart and doesn’t spend too much time in the box. He’s the assistant captain of the Mavericks and is a good leader.

The next defenseman to watch is Chad Brownlee. He’s a hard hitting player with a big ‘ol Canadian attitude. He’ll stick up for his team and is not afraid to fight. He’s the guy that threw the most punches in the famous fight with the Gophers, after Wheeler cut Tormey’s hand. Brownlee spends his fair share of time in the box and I wouldn’t be surprised if he roughs up a Sioux player this weekend, or possibly gets a fighting major.

Speaking of fighting, there’s a chance that Trevor Bruess will toss a few punches. He’s a big player that’s quite physical and is not afraid to get in someone’s face. He’s generally able to stop before fighting, but he will take a well deserved roughing minor. Watch for him to be shoving your guys around and talking trash.

The defenseman that spends the most time in the box is Brian Kilburg. He’s a strong and physical player too, but not much of a goon. He shows his strength on the ice and isn’t afraid to give your guys hard hits, just to remind them that he’s there. Kilburg sometimes doesn’t know when to stop, or let’s his frustration get to him and then takes stupid penalties, which accounts for his box time also. However, he really is a good player.

The other defenseman to watch for this weekend is Nick Canzanello. He too likes to hit hard and isn’t afraid to let his presence be known. He’s a strong guy, which most players underestimate, and they try to knock him over…only to have him stay standing and skate past them.

As far as the other “D” are concerned, we have RJ Linder (better known as Hot RJ) , Blake Friesen, and Lucas Fransen. At this time, I don’t know if he’ll be playing. He was out last weekend with an upper body injury. RJ plays the “D” hard and has good stick handling abilities. Friesen is good at reading forwards and plays a tight D. He doesn’t spend a lot of time in the box, as he’s a smart player. Plays pretty clean and does his job well. As far as Fransen goes…well, let’s just say there’s a reason that he sits on the bench as a senior. When he’s in, it seems like the Mavs can’t find groove.

Of course, I can’t forget to give props to our goalies. More than likely you’ll be seeing Mike Zacharias in net. This kid is a machine. He’s been on fire and paying exceptionally well. He’s got the quickest glove in the league and has a ton of talent. He’s been our #1 guy since Tormey has been out and he’s gained a lot of confidence. Look for him to stop a lot of great shots.

I’m not sure who the back up goalie will be. Dan Tormey started using his glove hand last week and dressed last weekend. He’s ready to play again, but I’m not sure Jutting will take him on the road due to his recovering injury. Tormey is getting his form back in practice and we’re all happy to see him back in his jersey after that awful injury.

If Tormey doesn’t make the trip, Chris Clark (aka “Hollywood”) will. He’s our senior goalie and he has the best personality in the WCHA. Fans from all the teams love this kid. If he’s there this weekend, be sure to yell at him and have a good time. He loves fan interaction, even if it’s not his own fans. Most fans love having Hollywood in their arena, as he’ll show them a little love and attention.

So…there is my rundown of the Maverick players. As far as the team goes, they’ve been playing hard and are finally seeing the fruits of their labor. They’ve moved up in the standings quickly and are looking to keep going. The Mavericks always play hard at REA, so be ready for a good show. Everyone is always quick to underestimate the Mavericks and that’s not wise. These guys play with passion and play every minute of the game. If you know what’s smart, you NEVER underestimate the Mavs.

One thing that I think is helping them play great is that Jutting seems to be on double secret probation, after he and Coach Means got into in with Campion at the U of M game. Jutting has been pretty quite and is not consistently yelling at the players and the refs. Thus, the refs haven’t been throwing the guys in the box out of frustration, and the guys are playing much more calmer. Let’s hope it stays that way, otherwise Jutts will probably pop a vein in his forehead and fall out off the bench….landing on the ice and doing the floppy croppy …all while he’s bitching and spit is flying!

All in all, it’s going to be one hell of a weekend of college hockey. I predict a split. I know, that’s lame, but given the Sioux talent vs. the Mavericks passion, it seems most likely. [edit: if Morin, Kalinski, Stewart, and Linder are all out...then I'm not going to be bold and say a split...in fact, we'll get our asses kicked....crap! hopefully they're ok for the weekend or the hockey gods just gave your team a big present!]

The Latest Projections for the NCAA Tourney

Western College Hockey: NCAA Tourney Projections
I know its way to early to write about the NCAA tourney, and to use the old cliche' there is lot of hockey left to be played before the NCAA tourney starts.

I found this over on Western College Hockey. I like the Match ups that Matt Latham has this week. After watching the Black Bears and Wildcats this past weekend, I am not so sure the New Hampshire Wildcats would want to go through that Regional though. First Sacred Heart than a potential match up with the Fighting Sioux. I could see it happening since UND owes MSU some pay back.

Northeast (Manchester, NH; Host: New Hampshire)

1. New Hampshire (20-5-1, #1 PWR) *auto*
2. Clarkson (17-7-4, #7 PWR)
3. North Dakota (15-11-2, #9 PWR)
4. Sacred Heart (15-9-4, UNR PWR) *auto*