INCH CHAT...

Here is the latest from the boys at INCH. First; call me a homer but I think UND is a little stronger than Denver right now, when the Pioneers get Tyler Bozak back then I think they are probably a little better than the Fighting Sioux.

Second; I don't see Walski playing this weekend, UND doesn't have the luxury of giving him another start, he played himself out of a starting job at the beginning of the season. I don't see how it would benefit UND in playing Walski. Based on the PWR numbers the Fighting Sioux can't afford to just throw games away. This is Brad Eidsnes's team and he has earned the Starting position on the merits of his play. Brad Eidsness give the Fighting Sioux the best chance to win this weekend. Again over the last twenty three games the Badgers and Sioux have spilt the series 11-11-1, In Madison the Sioux have gone 3-2 the last 5 games in Madison. Last season the Sioux were 2-1.

Third I could see the MTU Huskies winning a game against the Gophers this weekend. The Gophers have gone 2-4-2 in February and 6-8-2 since the turn of the year. It's the Huskies last weekend of hockey in Houghton, Michigan before they travel to Denver or Grand Forks, ND. Look for the Huskies to clog up the neutral zone and give the Gophers fits. I also expect the Huskies to hit the Gophers every chance they get.

Eric Fargo, ND: The Sioux have made another fabulous second half run. They have four lines contributing to the scoring. So what do the INCH guys think about UND chances to make the Frozen Four this year?

Jess Myers: If I were a betting man, I would not pick them to get to DC. Of the past five Sioux teams, this one is probably the deepest because the lack of a superstar (like Toews or Oshie) makes them harder to play, and kudos to them on a widely-expected MacNaughton Cup this weekend. But if I had to pick a WCHA team to get to the Frozen, I would pick Denver right now.
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KS (Minneapolis-for now): Since I'll be watching the next batch of stars tonight at Mariucci, I'll miss the UM/Tech game. Unless I ignore work-and watch the live scoring-I can only imagine what happens. Put me, and the rest of Gopher Nation at ease and tell me they get 4 this weekend and make some noise at the Final Five.

Jess Myers: I'm picking a split. The Huskies have not won a WCHA game since Halloween night, but they've been pesky at home lately, earning some nice ties with teams clearly more talented than them. Combine the emotion of senior night with the fact that not many of us are sold on this Gopher team lately and I see Minnesota bringing two points home on the long bus ride from the U.P.
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Dustin (Grand Forks): If North Dakota clinches the cup with their game Friday, does Dave Hakstol give senior goalie Aaron Walski a start for Saturday?

Jess Myers: Yes. It makes sense to give Brad Eidsness a physical and mental break heading into what could be a tougher-than-expected playoff series with Michigan Tech.
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Ryan (Grand Forks, ND): Do you think Ryan Duncan is an underrated player this year? He wasn't on the ballet for WCHA player of the year, but he is near the top in most statistics. That doesn't even take into account his leadership and all the hard work he brings to every shift on the ice that helped him win a Hobey a few years back. Thanks and keep up the good work!

Jess Myers: Duncan has been a pure joy to watch on the ice and, as a member of the media, to cover. I agree with you that for a guy with a Hobey on his resume, he's surprisingly overlooked a great deal. Part of that is his size, and part of it is by his own design, as Ryan is always quick to proclaim there are no superstars on the Sioux roster
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The GM's at the trade dead line.

Today I was listening to Puck Daddy Greg Wyshynski on XM-204 and he rated the NHL general managers at the trade dead line. I think Wyshynski's grade on Boston is is spot on. My next question is; anyone notice how the Bruins have done since the former General Manager Harry Sinden left the Bruins in 2006? The Bruins have gotten drastically better and have drafted well and have a stable full of good young players. Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli is doing a bang up job getting the Bruins back into the hunt for a Stanley cup championship.

Boston Bruins: Acquired F Mark Recchi and a 2010 second-round pick from Tampa for D Matt Lashoff and F Martins Karsums; Traded F Petteri Nokelainen to Anaheim for D Steve Montador.

After swinging for the fences with Marian Hossa last year (and missing the ball), GM Peter Chiarelli managed like a man with a first-place team yesterday. Recchi's career resurgence now gives him a chance for a Cup, and there's no way that isn't going to energize him even more. Montador is another player already having an outstanding season, and a rather perfect fit for what the Boston blue line needed. Boston sniffed around some high-end deals (like one for Keith Tkachuk), but were unwilling to move a major asset like Phil Kessel. Maybe Lashoff becomes a top-pairing defenseman, and maybe Nokelainen finds his game with the Ducks; it won't matter if Recchi and Montador win a Cup for Beantown. GRADE: A-.

Now! Compare and contrast the two organizations. The Boston Bruins are in the playoffs will probably get the number one seed in the east unless they really fall apart. They also added more high end talent at the dead line for the playoff run. The Boston organization had players in their organization they could use to bargain with and make trades if they need to. Minnesota on the other hand is in a state of disarray. They are barely alive for the eighth and final playoff spot. I don't see a way the Minnesota Wild can manage to make the playoffs this season.

Minnesota also has nothing as far as prospects in their minor league system they can offer to other teams. Minnesota is team made of third liners and has a shortage of talent that can score goals and make plays. Yet they want to hold on to players like James Sheppard who show no sign of ever scoring goals this season or even in this life time. Like Archie said in a previous blog post that Doug Risebrough as managed to screw up two teams in a matter of a decade and smugly sat by and did nothing to better his team. Doug Risebrough should have gotten an F- and for his efforts should be shown the door.

The thing that is also a major head scratcher is that there are no players on the Wild roster that have been division one college hockey players. I want to know how Doug Risebrough can reside in a state with five division one hockey teams and not end up with one player that isn't a former college hockey player. You also have Wisconsin and North Dakota in neighboring states. Boston on the other hand has a roster stuff with former college players; Tim Thomas (Vermont), Phil Kessel and Blake Wheeler (Minnesota), Mark Stuart (Colorado College), Byron Bitz (Cornell), Matt Hunwick and Aaron Ward (Michigan), Chuck Kobasew (Boston College).

Minnesota Wild: Nada. While the team did ink goalie Niklas Backstrom to an extension before the deadline, it did jack and squat otherwise. Pending UFAs Marc-Andre Bergeron and Martin Skoula didn't move. The asking price for Marian Gaborik was too high, so he becomes a de facto deadline move when he rejoins the Wild lineup soon. While he deserves credit for not overpaying for, say, Olli Jokinen, General Manager Doug Risebrough was taken apart by The State of Hockey for his inactivity at the deadline. GRADE: C-.

INCH Podcast

Interesting podcast this week. (Click here for the lastest INCH podcast)

Couple of things. Jess Meyers starts off the podcast talking about the WCHA. First off IF UND wins the MacNaughton Cup this weekend in Madison, Wisconsin it would be the 14th MacNaughton Cup the Fighting Sioux have won. The Fighting Sioux currently have won 13 MacNaughton Cups on 11.

Quest For the Cup: UND enters the final weekend of the regular season gunning for its first MacNaughton Cup as WCHA regular season champions since 2003-04 and its first under fifth-year head coach Dave Hakstol.

UND has finished progressively higher in the WCHA standings each year under Hakstol, placing fifth in his first season in 2004-05, fourth in 2005-06, third in 2006-07 and second last season.

The Sioux have won the WCHA regular season championship 13 times in their history.

Jess Meyers If I get to D.C. and a WCHA team makes the Frozen Four I would feel fortunate.

Fire Doug Risebrough NOW!!!

I have had it. As a fan of the Wild I am disgusted as I watched Wild GM Doug Risebrough screw up another trade deadline and picked up nobody. This time the Wild didn't even go for a rent a player like Chris Simon. (click here for the article)

Risebrough said it was quiet for him all day. The team maintains that it will not trade its core players like Mikko Koivu and Brent Burns or its young talent like James Sheppard, Colton Gillies and Tyler Cuma.

Wow, James Sheppard has scored a grand total of 8 goals in two NHL seasons. Colton Gilies is lighting up the league as well scoring a grand total of 6 points. Tyler Cuma isn't even in the NHL yet he is in the OHL and has been hurt most of the year. Tyler Cuma has played 21 games scoring 1 goal and 8 assist for 9 points. Obviously Koivu and Burns are the future of the Wild. That being said if you can trade the current nobodies on the Wild to get players that will make an immediate impact on the Wild you have to pull the trigger and inactivity is unacceptable. Earlier this summer the Wild had a chance to get Olli Jokinen but Doug Riesbrough didn't want to give up Pierre-Marc Bouchard and James Sheppard. Are you kidding me? I would have made the deal in a heart beat. Bouchard is a soft perimeter player that has scored 14 goals 26 assists for 40 points. I can only dream how Olli Jokinen would thrive in system with fellow Finlanders Mikko Koivu and Antti Miettinen.

Here is the petition to sign agreeing with the fact that Doug Risebrough neeeds to be fired! (click here)

Who has more penalty minutes?

National Statistics
Penalty Minutes: Games PIM PIM/G
1 Ferris State 36 815 22.6
2 Michigan 36 730 20.3
3 Minnesota State 34 689 20.3
4 Minnesota 32 648 20.2
5 Quinnipiac 34 683 20.1
6 Rensselaer 34 679 20.0
7 Wisconsin 34 675 19.9
8 Boston University 34 674 19.8
9 Northeastern 34 654 19.2
10 Mercyhurst 36 690 19.2
11 Alaska Anchorage 32 608 19.0
12 Yale 29 542 18.7
13 Denver 34 629 18.5
14 Miami 34 622 18.3
15 North Dakota 36 657 18.2

I keep hearing how UND is a bunch of goons. So I looked at the national statistics and this is what I found. Interesting, but UND isn't a bunch of goons and is taking about two minutes less per game in penalty minutes than the golden boys from Minnesota. Breaking it down even further, the Fighting Sioux are taking less penalties than Michigan, Boston University, Yale, North Eastern and Denver University.

Last Regular Season Games (Sioux 7)

Last weekend saw UND grab the WCHA lead from DU by a point by taking 3-pts from CC, MSU-M took 3pts from UW, UM also took 3-pts from UMD, DU and SCSU split a pair, and UAA swept in-state rival UAF. As a side note 6 out of 8 league games went to overtime, last weekend.

The race for home ice comes down to the last games of the year. I know I will be glued to the TV's this weekend. The only thing that is certain is UND and DU will be hosting either MTU and UAA. The rest is a mess, for instance if MSU-M sweeps SCSU and UM and UMD get swept their would be a 4-way tie for 5th, or how about CC ties DU and SCSU, UMD, and UM sweep, UW gets swept, 4-way tie for 3rd. I don't even want to go there with trying to figure out those tie breakers. CC and UW are not even safe, if they lose their games, and UM, SCSU, and UMD sweep, the Tigers and Badgers would be on the road.



WCHA standings

1 North Dakota..................16-6-4...36
2 Denver.........................16-8-3...35
3 Colorado College.............12-9-6...30
4 Wisconsin.....................13-10-3..29
5 St. Cloud State................13-12-1..27
5 Minnesota......................11-10-5..27
5 Minnesota-Duluth...........10-9-7...27
8 Minnesota State............10-13-3..23
9 Alaska-Anchorage..........7-14-5...19
10 Michigan Tech.............1-18-7...9



#16 Minnesota at Michigan Tech
Minnesota kept their hopes alive for home ice with a three point weekend against Duluth, while MTU enjoyed the weekend off. MTU got a tie earlier in the year against the Gophers at Mariucci, can they do that at home or perhaps get win number two? In case you were wondering, the Huskies lone conference win was against UAA, on Nov. 1st. The Gophers started Kent Patterson last Friday and Kangas on Saturday, I wonder if Lucia will do the same this weekend? The Huskies could be the first team in WCHA history to record 8 ties in a season, with a tie. (Dare I say a pair of ties for numbers 8 and 9 on the season.) To MTU's credit, they have only been swept five times this season, not bad considering they only have one win. The Gophers need two wins if they really want to help their odds for home ice. Anything less than four points for UM and they are most likely on the road. I'm going with Tech for the record, a tie on Friday and UM on Saturday.


Alaska-Anchorage at #15 Minnesota-Duluth
UAA comes in riding a two game winning streak, both games they shut-out UAF. Earlier this season the Seawolves took 3-pts from the Bulldogs in Anchorage. UMD comes in on a three game winless streak (0-1-2) and saw their chance to improve their home ice standing slip away last weekend. With UAA carrying some momentum and UMD desperately wanting home ice this should make for a good series. However, the Seawolves are a respectable 5-7-1 away from Sullivan Arena and the Bulldogs are 10-2-3 at the DECC. UAA is going on the road the first round and I'm sure they would like to make the Bulldogs go on the road too. With UAA goalie Bryce Christianson getting back to back shut outs last weekend mean UMD star goalie Alex Stalock will try to equal that this weekend... I'm going to call this series a split.


#6 North Dakota at #19 Wisconsin
The Sioux continue to be red hot the second half, and the Badgers have cooled off, now win-less in their last four games (0-3-1). UW is 9-7-2 at home this season and UND is 9-5-2 away from Grand Forks. If the Sioux win on Friday they win the regular season WCHA title outright, which would be their 14th. Winning the WCHA isn't an "auto-bid" into the NCAA but it is almost a given. The Badgers need points to help their cause of sewing up home ice, I think two points would get them home ice. UND was only 1-12 on the man-advantage against CC last weekend. They need to capitalize more on the PP to really start putting teams away, but the upside is they can score five on five and don't rely on PP's to win. I'm going with a split this weekend, UND Friday and UW on Saturday.


#18 St. Cloud State home/at Minnesota State
I don't like the home and home series, they should only be played if it is the only two games the teams against each other all year. These teams last meet the first part of December, with the Huskies sweeping those games, 4-2, and 6-2. The Huskies are doing well going 6-3-1 in their past 10-games with quality wins over CC, UND, and DU in that stretch. The Maverick are 4-4-2 in their last 10-games with wins over UM and UW. With MSU-M having little chance of home ice, they can try and spoil SCSU's home ice chances this weekend. However, I don't see the Huskies losing two games in a row, they haven't done that since mid-January. I'll take the Huskies on Friday night and the Mavericks on Saturday, splitsville.


#13 Colorado College at #5 Denver (Sat Only)
The Tigers got a point last weekend in Grand Forks, that was what Pioneers got out of Grand Forks too. CC needs points to hold on to home ice and try to move up in the PWR to make the NCAA tourney. DU still might have a chance for the WCHA title if UND loses on Friday. But probably more important to them is trying to stay in the top 4 in the PWR to get a number one seed for the NCAA tournament. Needless to say that these two arch-rivals would like nothing more than to beat the tar out of the other one. In three meeting this year the edge goes to CC, 1-0-2, and will retain the coveted Gold Pan. I think we will another game just like the previous three, closely played and entertaining to watch, but in the end nobody will get the outcome they were looking for, here is to tie number three.

INCH 4 X 4

The latest INCH 4 X 4 is up. Interesting! From looking at these bracket predictions it would appear that Denver University would have the easiest chance of any WCHA team to make the Frozen Four. I am not so sure I would be that giddy at another change for the Fighting Sioux to play Michigan even if it's in Minneapolis.

MINNEAPOLIS West Regional
1. Michigan
2. North Dakota
3. Princeton
4. UMD

GRAND RAPIDS Midwest Regional
1. Notre Dame
2. Vermont
3. Miami
4. Air Force Academy

BRIDGEPORT East Regional
1. Northeastern
2. Denver
3. Yale
4. St. Lawrence

MANCHESTER Northeast Regional
1. Boston University
2. New Hampshire
3. Cornell
4. Bemidji State University

A couple of things.

This weekends games between the Fighting Sioux and the Wisconsin Badgers will be on television. That is good news for Fighting Sioux fans. I will have to tape on my DVR and watch the game when I get home from work on Friday night.

Games will be on TV

This weekend's games will be on FSSN, thanks to Nodak Mutual, REA, WDAZ and Midcontinent Communications. UND says to contact your local cable provider for details, but it's supposed to "be aired on most local and regional cable systems that normally carry FSSN hockey broadcasts (click here for the official press release)

----------------UPDATE----------------
Sprig from Sioux sports just posted the freq's for those that have satellite dishes.

Here it is, from Jamie at the REA:

Echostar 9 - 121 w
Ku Band - Downlink Frequency: 11840.1250 V
L Band - Downlink Frequency: 1090.1250 V
Symbol Rate 4.88
FEC 3/4

Most of us that follow the Minnesota Wild know that that Wild GM Doug Risebrough does not usually pick up free agents that have a back ground in college hockey, there have been a few exception but the current team has none with college hockey experience. Here is a little heads up to Risebrough if he doesn't get shown the door. Jordan Leopold is a unrestricted free agent after the season is over.

LEOPOLD RETURNS TO CALGARY

Jordan Leopold is returning to the Calgary Flames. The Colorado Avalanche sent Jordan Leopold to the Calgary Flames in exchange for blue-liner Lawrence Nycholat, prospect Ryan Wilson and a second-round draft pick in 2009.

Leopold has 20 points (6-14) and is a minus-10 in 64 games this season.

Nycholat, who has one assist in 14 games, had been picked up on waivers a day earlier.

The 28-year-old defenceman spent three seasons with the Flames before being dealt to Colorado in the Alex Tanguay trade in June 2006.

Leopold is earning $1.5 million this season and will be an unrestricted free agent this summer.

Bruins trade Montador for Nokelainen, Mark Recchi a Bruin.

This trade kind of puzzles me, Boston has a ton of defensive players and must be trading one of their many defensemen(s) out of Boston if they are making this deal. Not too much going on league wide. Yet!

Bruins acquire Montador for Nokelainen...
Trade Deadline NHL.comBoston, MA – Boston Bruins General Manager Peter Chiarelli announced today that the club has acquired defenseman Steve Montador from the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for forward Petteri Nokelainen.

The 29-year-old Montador skated in 65 games this season for Anaheim, compiling four goals and a career-high 16 assists. The 6-foot, 211-pound Vancouver, BC, Canada native was signed as a free agent by the Ducks on July 11, 2008.

Before joining the Ducks, Montador played two-plus seasons for the Florida Panthers from 2005-2008 and three-plus seasons for the Calgary Flames from 2001-2005. A veteran of 355 career games played in the NHL, he has registered 18 goals and 49 assists. Montador has also appeared in 20 postseason contests- all during the 2003-2004 postseason -- and was a member of the Calgary Flames club that was defeated in the seventh game of the Stanley Cup playoffs in 2003-2004.

Montador will be reunited with former teammates and current Bruins Andrew Ference, Chuck Kobasew and Stephane Yelle, who all played together with the Calgary Flames. In July of 2007, Montador and Ference traveled on a trip to Tanzania to benefit the Right To Play charitable organization. They visited schools and orphanages while serving as inspirational Right To Play participants and role models for the children in Right To Play programs.

Breaking News

The NHL Network and Sportsnet.ca is reporting that Boston Bruins have Acquired Mark Recchi from Tampa Bay for Matt Lashoff and Martins Karsums...

Recchi played with Aaron Ward in Carolina in 2005-06 when the Hurricanes won the Cup. Recchi is the left-handed shot up front that could give them a boost on the power play. He is also a veteran presence they like.

The 41-year-old Recchi has scored 13 goals and 32 assists in 62 games this season.

"I have no idea," Recchi told TSN when asked what kind of role he'd play. "When I get there, the coaching staff will fill me in. I don't really care, to be honest. I'll do whatever role they ask."

UPDATE: Recchi and a 2010 second-round pick to Boston. Matt Lashoff and Martins Karsums to the Lightning. (link to the blog post)

Mike Commodore versus Matt Greene

Someone posted this over on Sioux Sports. I was wondering when was the last time two Fighting Sioux alumni went toe to toe in an NHL match up? It would probably be a good sports trivia question that could be up on the tv screen at a sports bar in Grand Forks somewhere.

While they were never team mates they probably have crossed paths during the off season at UND. Mike Commodore played for the Fighting Sioux from 1997-2000. Matt Green played for the Fighting Sioux from 2002 - 2005.

A National Holiday/Obsession?

Only 3:49:17 to go and I am counting the digital minutes.

The 3 pm (EST) deadline is closing and I am live blogging.

We have too much time on our hands here in Canada

Today is NHL trade deadline day and it's an unofficial national holiday in the land of ice and snow.

In Toronto there are three competing television networks, over 20 talking heads and counting and 26 hours of combined coverage to let us know that Brendan Bell was put on waivers by the Ottawa Senators and Antoine Vermette was traded to Columbus for Pascal LeClaire and a second round pick.

Talk about putting the "care" in "I don't care."

Hold a minute, breaking news: Montreal recalled goaltender Marc Denis from Hamilton (AHL affiliate) and the Thrashers place Eric Perrin on waivers.

Now things are heatin' up!

This is interesting: Flames in pursuit of Ollie Jokinen for Matthew Lombardi.

Now back to Nick Kypreos and his Blackberry.

Wait! Don't change the channel. Darren Pang is about to say something.

Hold On! Jordan Leopold is going back to Calgary and he's on the phone right now! TSN has him on the line. Live! Nice scoop guys.

Pierre McGuire is arguing with TSN host Darren Dutchyshen. Good television.

Let's see what's up with the Score Television Network.

Damn! An interview with Randy Sportak from the Calgary Sun.

Maybe The Score got the scoop. I don't know I wasn't watching them. I'm sure that disapoints The Score management. All that market research and over priced beer ads.

Hey! My old buddy Marty McSorley just made a cameo on Sportsnet. He's debating the merits of Miroslav Satan. Thanks to TSN, maybe it was Sportsnet who told me the Penguins put him on waivers.

This is big.: Alex Ovechkin has a sore foot.

It's almost noon and the waiver wire deadline is approaching.

McGuire is giving Oilers' management a thrashing right now.

Michael Farber from Sports Illustrated, Steve Simmons from the Toronto Sun and Damien Cox from the Toronto Star are debating the fourth line of the Canucks.

Phoenix just traded Mikael Tellqvist to the Buffalo News ? For a fourth round draft pick.

Darren Pang and Keith Jones love the trade. McGuire is over the moon about it and he calls it a "positive day for the Buffalo Sabres."

Bob Mackenzie from TSN informs us at 12:03 (EST) pm that the Leafs just picked up Marty Gerber from Ottawa on recallable waivers and Darren Dreger says the Leafs might shut down Vesa Toskala for a while because of hip and groin problems.

The Leafs are on live television at the Lakeshore Lions Arena in south Toronto. Where's Vesa?

Are they going to trade him?

Had enough yet?

According to Sportsnet there is 2:46:51 left.

You can't do that! I want my Kypreos back. He's leaving.

The Score and Sportsnet are in commercial break right now.

Just enough time to check the weather in Slovenia.

Where's Alan Eagleson?

Former Tampa Bay Lightning GM Jay Feaster is having a heated debate with Matthew Barnaby about Dominic Moore. I wonder what's gonna happen to him?

The Score says the Islanders are 2500-1 to win the Cup.

It's 12:30 pm now and I'm going to find what's left of my pathetic life.

2:30:10 and counting...

Final Week of the Season.

Check out this press release from the WCHA. I like the sounds of sentence that is bolded. The league leading and number 6 ranked North Dakota (should say Fighting Sioux).

MADISON, Wis. - The final weekend of the 2008-09 regular season will bring about some of the most intriguing scenarios in the long and storied history of the 57-year-old Western Collegiate Hockey Association. The battle for the league championship and MacNaughton Cup is on the line as well as the final three first round home WCHA Playoff berths. And with all 10 member teams engaged in conference play this Friday and Saturday, March 6-7, fans everyone can be assured of a playoff atmosphere in the five arenas that will host games.

At the Kohl Center (15,237) in Madison, league-leading and No. 6-ranked North Dakota (21-11-4, 16-6-4 WCHA) will take on host and No. 19-ranked Wisconsin (16-14-4, 13-10-3 WCHA) in a pair of 7:07 pm CT face-offs that, for the Fighting Sioux, offer them the chance to add to their league record 13 regular season titles and that, for the Badgers, can elevate them as high as a third place finish and secure a home playoff berth. North Dakota enters the series on a seven-game unbeaten streak at 6-0-1 and sporting a 12-1-3 mark over their last 16 WCHA games. The two teams split their first series of the season in Grand Forks back on Oct. 31-Nov. 1, with UND winning 3-2 on that Friday and the UW taking a 5-2 decision on that Saturday.
---------------(snip)---------------
Heading into the final weekend of the regular season, North Dakota (26 WCHA gp, 35 points) holds a one-point lead - and one game in hand - over second place Denver (27 WCHA gp, 34 points). One, or both, of those teams will emerge as WCHA champions this weekend. Colorado College (27 WCHA gp) is third with 30 points, Wisconsin (26 WCHA gp) is fourth with 29 points, and Minnesota (26 WCHA gp), Minnesota Duluth (26 WCHA gp) and St. Cloud State (26 WCHA gp) are intwined in the fifth spot with 27 points each. Minnesota State (26 WCHA gp) stands eighth with 23 points, Alaska Anchorage (26 WCHA gp) is ninth with 19 points, and Michigan Tech (26 WCHA gp) is 10th with nine points.

A season ago (2007-08), it took 28 points to earn a top five finish and the home-ice advantage for the first round of WCHA playoffs, and only three teams - league champion Colorado College, second place North Dakota, and third place Denver - finished their 28-game league slates with winning records. So far this season, seven teams - UND, DU, CC, UW, UM, UMD and SCSU - all have winning records in conference competition. Also through games of March 1, there have been 22 ties in league competition, 37 games have been decided by just one goal, 27 have been decided by two goals, and 43 have been decided by three goals or more.

Linkorama

Rangers claim Sean Avery on waivers. This should get interesting.

The Minnesota Wild have resigned Niklas Backstrom I am not sure why General Manager Doug Risebrough wait so long to get a deal done. One free agent down another to go. Apparently Marian Gaborik upset a few people with these stupid comments.

When asked about the pressure to get back in the lineup given the 10th-place team's struggling, Gaborik said, "Quite frankly I haven't really been watching games. I've been following the scores, but I haven't been watching games. From my perspective, I just really need to focus on how am I feeling, how everything goes with me and then if everything goes good, I'm going to jump in to play. Definitely the pressure is on, but first of all I want to feel confident in my body and ... so far everything is going well."

Former Sioux Zach Parise is being mentioned as a candidate for the Hart trophy.

Here is a nice story about soon to be Fighting Sioux hockey player Danny Mattson.
(click here for the whole article)

"I'm willing to do whatever the coach wants," he said. "I like to mix it up a little bit and play physical when the situation calls for it. I feel like I'm more of a playmaker, though, more of that finesse-type of player."

Mattson, who finished seventh in the state in 2007-08 with 69 points (30 goals) in 25games, will attend the University of North Dakota next fall.

"I also had visits to Minnesota and Wisconsin, but my mom graduated from North Dakota and when I was on campus, it just felt like a good fit and all the coaches were great," Mattson said.

While he openly admits a need to improve his defensive-zone coverage, there's no question Mattson's vision and distribution of the puck are second to none.

Chris Edwards, who scouts the Ontario Hockey League for Central Scouting, had an opportunity to evaluate Mattson in November during the 2008 Nike Bauer National Invitational Tournament in New Hope, Minn. Through the years, the NIT field has included many of the top players selected at the NHL Entry Draft.

This should fire up Sioux fans.

This is a pretty goal and might be the defining cup clinching moment as UND needs only a point in it's next series to tie for the McNaughton Cup. I am making the assumption that DU is going to beat C.C. next weekend so UND will need two points to win the McNaughton outright.

Trade dead line moves. As seen through the eyes of INCH

This was found on an napkin over on INCH. I have a hard time believing the Bruins would give up two number one draft picks to aquire a defenseman. The defenseman rumored to be going to Boston would be Chris Pronger.

• Joe Colborne/Phil Kessel/Mark Stuart (Boston): The B's are apparently in hunt for a top flight defenseman, and this troika with WCHA ties appears frequently as trade bait.

Ode to the 2009 Fighting Sioux Seniors

Here is the salute to the Seniors class of 2009: Joe Finley #2 (147 games 7g-28a-35 pts), Zach Jones #6 (161 games 1g-10a-11 pts), Ryan Martens #8 (91 games 14g-27a-41 pts), Brad Miller #14 (121 games 21g-42a-63 pts), Ryan Ducan #16 (168 games 80g-85a-165 pts), Aaron Walski #30 (.842 Sv% 2.87 gaa record 1- 3- 0), Matt Watkins #20 (162 games 25g-32a-57 pts),
Andrew Kozek #10 (160 games 38g-26a-64 pts) (Video Courtesy of badgersioux)

In case anyone is keeping track: This Fighting Sioux recruiting class also included three NHL players, Jonathan Toews Chicago, Brian Lee Ottawa and T.J. Oshie St.Louis, Taylor Chorney Springfield AHL, were also members of this class that have since moved on to play in the professional ranks. The thing I like about this senior class is they are an unselfish hard working lunch pail group. It seems only fitting that this group could be rewarded with a MacNaughton Cup. I am looking forward to hopefully seeing the McNaughten Cup paraded around the REA.

Here is a pretty good description of how UND season has gone in the second half and what they are closing in on. Their first MacNaughton Cup sine 2004, and actually UND was a bounce away from going to the Frozen Four that season as well.

The Sioux (36 points) could back into the MacNaughton Cup if Denver (35 points) loses or ties to Colorado College in their single game Saturday night, but UND has no intentions of doing that.

The Sioux have been predictably on fire in the second half of the season, going 16-3-3 since the start of December and 12-1-3 in this calendar year. They haven’t lost back-to-back conference games since mid-November. (click here for the whole article)

Don Cherry on Ovechkin.

I found this story over on Puck Daddy and while Cherry's comments might be xenophobic - intense dislike and/or fear of people from other countries, Don Cherry has been on record as not being a big fan of European hockey players. Ovechkin is a Russian, I don't believe Don Cherry's comments are necessarily racist, per se.

Don Cherry is right, I do think if Ovechkin keeps up with his antics of over celebrating after a goal, eventually there will come a day when someone is lurking in the weeds to light Alex up.

For Canadian fans, he's an institution whose xenophobic Archie Bunker-lite persona is balanced with a genuine championing of hockey's grand traditions. With that in mind, I'm not stunned that we received over a dozen emails about Cherry's comments over the weekend. It's like Rush Limbaugh and the conservative movement: Just when you think the guy is on the margins, suddenly he's the torchbearer again.

The torch Cherry grabbed this weekend was that of Sidney Crosby and other players who are critical -- publicly or privately -- of Ovechkin's enthusiastic displays after goals or victories.

While the hell Cherry's catching for his views is warranted, here's the thing: Once you get past the cultural bias and subtle racism in the presentation of his argument, there's actually some validity to what Cherry actually said on "Hockey Night In Canada" about the biggest star in the NHL.

Poll Monday

USCHO.com/CBS College Sports Division I Men's Poll
March 2nd 2009
1. Boston University (44)
2. Notre Dame (6)
3. Michigan
4. Northeastern
5. Denver
6. North Dakota
7. Vermont
8. Miami
9. New Hampshire
10. Princeton
11. Yale
12. Cornell
13. Colorado College
14. Ohio State
15. St. Lawrence
16. Minnesota-Duluth
17. Minnesota
18. St. Cloud State
19. Wisconsin
20. Boston College
Others Receiving Votes: Air Force 56, Mass.-Lowell 22, RIT 16, Dartmouth 6, Minnesota State 5, Alaska 4
-----------

USA Today
March 2, 2009

1. Boston University (26)
2. Notre Dame (8)
3. Michigan
4. Northeastern
5. Denver
6. North Dakota
7. Vermont
8. Miami
9. New Hampshire
10. Yale
11. Princeton
12. Cornell
13. St. Lawrence
14. Ohio State
15. Colorado College

The Hockey Show.

Listen to the latest episode of hockey show. I would have gotten this up earlier but I have been busy this past weekend watching high school and college hockey.

(Click here) to listen to the Hockey Show. If you have an iPod you can listen to the hockey show here->(click here) Listen to Channing Boe's account of the Brian Schack attack/incident; that is at about 41:55 minutes in. Interesting! Brian Schack was actually hitting Boe while his leg had already been broken. That is a class act.

Scores from 28 February and March 1 2009

Saturday, February 28, 2009

Atlantic Hockey
Canisius 3 at Mercyhurst 4 ot
Holy Cross 3 at Sacred Heart 4
Connecticut 2 at Bentley 2 ot
Air Force 3 at RIT 1
Army 3 at American Int'l 1

Analysis
Air Force wins the AHA tie breaker with the split at RIT.
RIT is my favorite to win the AHA tourney.

CCHA
Notre Dame 2 at Michigan State 1
Ferris State 0 at Michigan 4
Bowling Green 3 at Western Michigan 5
Miami 7 at Ohio State 5
Lake Superior 3 at Northern Michigan 4

Analysis
Notre Dame finished as the regular season champ and has a 13-2-1 record in 2009. WMU ends the season with a 5-2-1 record. Michigan remains hot as they ends 2009 with a 12-3-0 record.

CHA
Niagara 0 at Robert Morris 0 ot

ECAC
Princeton 2 at Harvard 3
Cornell 3 at Brown 2 ot
St. Lawrence 2 at Rensselaer 0
Quinnipiac 4 at Dartmouth 1
Clarkson 1 at Union 2

Analysis
Cornell went 10-6-1 after starting the season 8-1-3.

Hockey East
Northeastern 3 at Mass.-Lowell 1
Vermont 2 at Maine 1
Boston College 4 at Providence 3 ot
Merrimack 0 at New Hampshire 1
Massachusetts 2 at Boston University 7

Analysis
Boston University remained hot as they have lost one time in 2009 going
14-1-3. Cross town rival Boston College went 6-7-3 in 2009.

WCHA
Minnesota-Duluth 3 at Minnesota 5
Colorado College 4 at North Dakota 4 ot
Wisconsin 3 at Minnesota State 3 ot
St. Cloud State 2 at Denver 1 ot

Analysis
Sioux fans would like to thank the SCSU Huskies for beating the Pioneers.
I guess this week Sioux fans become Tigers fans this weekend? I cheer for two teams the Fighting Sioux and who ever is playing the dirty Minnesota Golden Gophers.

I guess this weekend I am a Real Huskies fan. Minnesota State Mankato takes three out of four points against the Badgers. Not without some controversy though. Another series and another game/series that Todd Anderson screws up big time. I think it is time for Todd Anderson to lose his job reffing in the WCHA.

Non-Conference
Alaska 0 at Alaska-Anchorage 3

Analysis
The 9th place team in the WCHA swept the 4th place team from the CCHA in a weekend series. The more impressive fact is that Fairbanks was shutout two games in a row.

Exhibition
US Under-18 Team 3 at Bemidji State 6

Sunday, March 1, 2009

ECAC
Colgate 3 at Yale 2

Analysis
Big win for Colgate as they beat the league champ Yale in overtime.

WCHA
UND 4 vs C.C. 3 ot

Analysis
The Sioux need to secure one point next weekend against the Badgers to bring home the McNaughten Cup. UND is 11-11-1 against the Badgers in the last 23 games dating back to 2002-2003. Talk about an even series.

Conference vs. 'Big 4'
AHA 11-40-5 (.241)
CCHA 24-26-9 (.483)
CHA 12-34-2 (.271)
ECACHL 20-37-4 (.361)
HEA 33-20-4 (.614)
WCHA 24-18-9 (.559)

INCH Power Rankings

March 1st 2009
1. Notre Dame
2. Boston University
3. Northeastern
4. Michigan
5. North Dakota — The Fighting Sioux, one point from winning the WCHA regular-season title, are 12-1-3 since Jan. 1. With their penchant for second-half success, maybe Dave Hakstol should schedule all 36 games after Christmas from here on out. 21-11-4 (16-6-4 WCHA) LAST WEEK: T vs. Colorado College, 4-4 ot; W vs. Colorado College, 4-3 ot. THIS WEEK: at Wisconsin, at Wisconsin
6. Denver
7. Vermont
8. Miami
9. Yale
10. Princeton
11. New Hampshire
12. Cornell
13. St. Lawrence
14. Ohio State
15. Colorado College
16. Minnesota
17. Minnesota Duluth
18. St. Cloud State
19. Boston College
20. Wisconsin

Dropped out: UMass Lowell

Bubble-licious: Air Force, RIT

I never thought I would see UND ranked so high in an INCH power rankings.

Sioux 4 Tiger 3 OT.

First off those people that were writing off the Sioux the last weekend of December or first week of January because they lost a couple of game, well ten to be exact. That is why they play the whole season. Like I said earlier this season there is no award for best record during the first half of the season. Ala Air Force. Now, Sioux fans do you believe? I never stopped believing. The Fighting Sioux started the season 5-8-1 and have gone an impressive 16-3-3 since then.

Let them eat crow

The Fighting Sioux are two points away from hanging another banner for a McNaughten Cup. Pardon me if I feel a little Giddy this afternoon. It looks a lot better than 7th place like some of the pundits had predicted. Hey Jess Meyers come over to the house lets have a beer and I will serve some crow for you. Don't worry while I don't have any Crow in my freezer I do have some PHEASANT we can grill.

Today on bus back from the Ralph I heard on the radio we found out that the Fighting Sioux have never lost a game when Darcy Zajac has scored a goal. That would be my text book definition of a big time money player.

Balanced scoring

With Joe Finley Picking up a point (assist) this weekend the Fighting Sioux now have 16 players with 10 or more points. Eight players on the Fighting Sioux have 20 or more points. With a few more points Brad Miller and Chris VVandeVelde will add to the total of player with 30 or more points. Currently there are two players with 30 points (Duncan and Genoway).

Here is the goon's what if. A few weeks ago I was called a homer for suggesting that the Sioux would win the WCHA regulars season title. Seems my prediction wasn't all that far out of line.

WCHA Final
Team GP Pts
UND 28 38
Denver 28 36
CC 28 31
UMD 28 31
UMN 28 31
UW 28 31
SCSU 28 29
Mankato 28 25
AA 28 19
MTech 28 9

Scoring/Penalties Time

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1st Period (20:00)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NDK 1 - 0 6x6 Andrew Kozek (8) (Ryan Duncan) 10:58
NDK (+): 10,16,26,6,25,G31 CC (-): 14,2,10,7,22,G30
CC-1 Cody Lampl (2-Roughing) 10:58
NDK-1 Brett Hextall (2-Roughing) 10:58
NDK-2 Brad Malone (2-Interference) CC 0x1 13:40
CC-2 Gabe Guentzel (2-Unsportsmanlike Conduct) 15:34
NDK-3 Evan Trupp (2-Unsportsmanlike Conduct) 15:34
CC-3 Tyler Johnson (2-Elbowing) NDK 1x1 16:31
CC-4 Jake Gannon (2-Interference) NDK 1x2 16:35
NDK 2 - 0 6x4 PP Ryan Duncan (15) (Chris VandeVelde, Brett Hextall) 17:53
NDK: 16,26,29,14,5,G31 CC: 14,15,7,G30

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2nd Period (20:00)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NDK-4 Evan Trupp (2-Tripping) CC 1x2 3:44
CC 1 - 2 6x5 PP Scott McCulloch (6) (Brian Connelly, Eric Walsky) 3:54
CC: 26,11,22,14,10,G30 NDK: 2,5,11,20,G31
NDK-5 Brad Miller (2-Boarding) CC 2x3 5:42
CC 2 - 2 6x5 PP Cody Lampl (3) (unassisted) 6:12
CC: 2,25,19,21,15,G30 NDK: 11,20,5,2,G31
NDK 3 - 2 6x6 Brett Hextall (12) (unassisted) 6:57
NDK (+): 26,10,25,16,2,G31 CC (-): 26,22,7,14,15,G30
CC-5 Brian Connelly (2-Holding) NDK 1x3 8:38
CC-6 Andreas Vlassopoulos (2-Holding) NDK 1x4 10:46
NDK-6 Andrew Kozek (2-Interference) CC 2x4 12:38
NDK-7 Zach Jones (2-Interference) CC 2x5 17:15
CC-7 Andreas Vlassopoulos (2-Hooking) NDK 1x5 18:03

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3rd Period (20:00)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CC 3 - 3 6x6 Chad Rau (17) (Eric Walsky, Nate Prosser) 15:24
CC (+): 14,22,15,11,2,G30 NDK (-): 2,5,16,10,26,G31
NDK-8 Brett Hextall (2-Charging) CC 2x6 19:50

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Overtime (3:25)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NDK 4 - 3 6x6 GW LL Darcy Zajac (4) (Brad Malone, Andrew Kozek) 3:25
NDK (+): 11,22,10,5,6,G31 CC (-): 14,4,10,22,26,G30

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End of Game
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Senators send down former Sioux Brian Lee.

Former Fighting Sioux hockey player Brian Lee was sent down to Binghamton today to make room for uber sieve Martin Gerber. In a way you kind of feel for Brian Lee especially after the last game he had, I expect Lee to get called up again before the season is over.

SPORTSNET.CA –- The Ottawa Senators assigned defenceman Brian Lee to the Binghamton Senators Friday and recalled goaltender Martin Gerber.

Gerber, 34, has posted six wins and as many losses in 13 games with Birmingham this season, posting a 2.90 GAA with a .911 save percentage and one shutout.

With the Senators this season, Gerber has four wins, nine losses and an overtime loss in 14 games with a 2.86 goals-against average and .899 save percentage.

According to Sportsnet’s Ian Mendes, Alex Auld has the flu, so there is a small chance they need Gerber to back up Brian Elliott Saturday night.

He last saw action with the Senators in a 6-4 loss to the Bruins in Boston on Jan. 8.

Lee, on recall for a third time this season since Dec. 13, has two goals, nine assists and 14 penalty minutes over 36 games with the NHL club.

In 22 AHL games, the 21-year-old has one goal, eight assists, 28 penalty minutes and a +4 rating.

Rangers get the Star's sloppy seconds.

The soap opera continues. It will be interesting to see what happens next. You have to wounder if the Rangers are picking Avery up just so he can get into Martin Brouder's kitchen.

SPORTSNET.CA --- Sportsnet has learned the Dallas Stars will place Sean Avery on re-entry waivers as early as Monday.

Avery will play in both AHL Hartford Wolf Pack games this weekend. The New York Rangers have committed to claiming Avery providing he was still available.

In six games with the Wolf Pack, Avery has one goal and one assist.

Avery previously played in New York under coach Tom Renney, who was fired and replaced by John Tortorella on February 23, 2009. In December Tortorella commented on the Avery-Dion Phaneuf controversy while serving as a Canadian television analyst.

Tortorella said: "Enough is enough. He's embarrassed himself, he's embarrassed the (Dallas) organization, he's embarrassed the league and he's embarrassed his teammates, who have to look out for him. Send him home. He doesn't belong in the league."

Rangers GM Glen Sather told the New York Post on Monday of the potential conflict between the new coach and Avery: "He doesn't have the history with Sean that we do. Over time you learn to love him, just like I do."

Derek Boogaard suspended 5 games by NHL.

This is the hit that got Derek Boogaard "the Boogey man" suspended by the NHL for 5 games. I think it's definitely a penalty that warrants a suspension, whether it be a boarding or elbow. You have to wonder if the name on the back of the jersey had something to do with the length of the suspension. What would have happened if this was Ovechkin or Crosby that did this hit? Would there be a suspension? You have to wonder if there are two sets of rules for certain players.

Wild's Boogaard suspended for five games
News By NHL .com
Minnesota Wild forward Derek Boogaard has been suspended for five games, without pay, as a result of an elbowing incident during NHL game #921 against the Calgary Flames, the National Hockey League announced today.

Under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, and based on his average annual salary, Boogaard will forfeit $23,521.50. The money goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.

At 18:48 of the third period, Boogaard delivered a blow to the head area of Calgary forward Brandon Prust. Prust was injured on the play and did not return to the game. Officials assessed Boogaard minor penalties for boarding and roughing on the play.

Boogaard will miss tonight’s game at Edmonton, March 3 against Vancouver, March 5 against San Jose, March 7 against Los Angeles and March 8 against Anaheim. He will be eligible to return March 10 vs. San Jose.

Message to WCHA Fire Todd Anderson NOW!!!

Another week in the WCHA and wouldn’t you know it another incident involving an on ice WCHA official. Taking it a little further; it is another incident that involves WCHA referee Todd Anderson, again. When does the league say enough is enough with this guy? Do they give Todd Anderson the Randy Schmidt suspension, where he gets suspended and goes away quietly into the night to never be seen again on the ice. Friday night there was another series of incidents in the game between the Badgers and the Mavericks in Mankato.

Tonight I got a text from Lets Go Mavs and she says that Todd Anderson and the other official took 10 minutes to wave off a goal on video review. That is ridiculous, it is either a goal or it is not a goal.

Here is a run down of the incident on Friday night in Mankato.

In the third, with UW clinging to a 3-2 lead, a centering pass from freshman pivot Derek Stepan hit the right skate of Gorowsky and caromed past Mankato goaltender Mike Zacharias (32 saves).

Referee Todd Anderson looked at the sequence on video along with partner Pete Freesma and waived it off, telling Eaves that Gorowsky used a distinct kicking motion, which is illegal.

“I don’t know how he made that distinction after watching it on video,” Gorowsky said. “I didn’t know I touched the puck at all. I saw it come through and I tried to hit it with my stick and I thought it went all the way through. I looked and it was in the back of the net.”

Eaves’ voice was elevated during a post game discussion with Greg Shepherd, the WCHA supervisor of officials. When Eaves emerged from the ante room, he was diplomatic and terse with a sense of humor thrown in when asked about the two goals that weren’t

“I’m not going to go down that path,” he said. “Obviously they were critical times in the game. Unless I was willing to give you a $1,000 check right now — unfortunately I called my wife and she said I can’t — I’m not going to say anything about those things.”

Public criticism of game officials could result in a fine from the WCHA, something Eaves tried to avoid.

“Those viewpoints that those gentlemen have certainly aren’t the ones we have,” he said. (read the whole article here)

Let’s take look at Todd Anderson’s hit parade over the past couple of seasons. These incidents happened in the games that Todd Anderson has worked in. All these dust ups involved a game where Todd Anderson as the on ice official was not all that sharp. In fact his performance was unsatisfactory. The League office needs to man up and get rid of some dead weight.

1.) The Prpich cup check and the Dasher dance.
2.) The dasher dance and ejection from the game. Guess who is the official? Todd Anderson.
3.) The Brian Schack incident in Mankato as Schack attacked Channing Boe.

Sister kissing in Grand Forks: Sioux 4 Tigers 4

I started this glorious day at Purpur Arena where I watched the first of three hockey game live today. First on the docket was the Central Knights as they beat the Fargo South Bruins 3-2. Then I drove over to the Ralph to watch the Fighting Sioux battled to a 4-4 tie with the scrappy Colorado College Tigers. Then we went to Whitey's where we had supper and then headed back to the Ralph to end the night watching the Red River Rough Riders do the unthinkable; Red River was out shot for the game but beat Bismarck 3-2. Red River goalie Cory Meland saved his best games for the last two games of high school career.

I am not a big fan of Fighting Sioux playing at 3:37 pm in the afternoon; however it's better than working. I know it’s a cliché but a bad day of hockey is better than a good day of work. Today I thought the Fighting Sioux looked a little sluggish against the Tigers in all three zones and were a step behind during the middle part of the game. I also think that is to be understood since they played in Anchorage last weekend and that trip takes a lot out of any hockey team.

Brad Eidsness was the difference in this hockey game today; Brad Eidsness made some huge saves at the right time. I remember at the beginning of the season some were questioning if the Sioux would have enough goaltending to contend for a title. I think those questions have been answered as the Fighting Sioux are closing in a WCHA regular season title. The one save that he made in the third period was absolutely amazing. Tomorrow afternoon the defense is going to have to tighten up and start getting ready for the playoffs. The team as a whole cannot be giving up odd man rushes and letting the opposition move into the offensive zone unchallenged.

As it stands right now the Fighting Sioux are one point behind Denver with two games in hand. Realistically that means UND has a possibility of 6 points and DU has a possible 2 points left. If the Fighting Sioux can get three more points they would at least tie for a league title. If the Fighting Sioux can get 4 points they can win a McNaughton Cup out right. That would be the first McNaughton Cup of Coach Hakstol’s tenure. The Fighting Sioux have not won a McNaughton Cup since 2004.

Box score
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1st Period (20:00)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CC-1 Brian McMillin (2-Cross-Checking) NDK 0x1 8:20
NDK 1 - 0 6x6 Matt Watkins (6) (Andrew Kozek, Zach Jones) 10:56
NDK (+): 20,10,6,11,25,G31 CC (-): 7,18,16,26,10,G30
CC-2 Ryan Lowery (2-Tripping) NDK 0x2 12:18
NDK-1 Chris VandeVelde (2-Tripping) CC 0x1 12:36
CC 1 - 1 5x5 Mike Testwuide (4) (Matt Overman, Gabe Guentzel) 14:04
CC (+): 25,18,10,15,G30 NDK (-): 20,5,14,11,G31
NDK 2 - 1 6x6 Brett Hextall (10) (Ryan Duncan, Jason Gregoire) 14:58
NDK (+): 26,16,17,24,5,G31 CC (-): 22,4,2,14,15,G30

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2nd Period (20:00)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NDK-2 Chay Genoway (2-Tripping) CC 1x2 2:44
CC 2 - 2 6x5 PP Chad Rau (15) (Bill Sweatt, Brian Connelly) 3:06
CC: 14,21,11,28,10,G30 NDK: 20,25,6,11,G31
CC-3 Jake Gannon (2-Cross-Checking) NDK 0x3 3:53
CC-4 Tyler Johnson (2-Roughing) 7:10
NDK-3 Jake Marto (2-Tripping) 7:10
NDK-4 Mario Lamoureux (2-Roughing) CC 1x3 7:10
CC-5 Nate Prosser (2-Cross-Checking) NDK 0x4 11:02
NDK-5 Chris VandeVelde (2-Interference) CC 1x4 12:33
CC 3 - 2 6x6 Bill Sweatt (12) (Gabe Guentzel, Chad Rau) 14:35
CC (+): 21,10,14,28,11,G30 NDK (-): 19,25,29,6,22,G31
CC-6 Tyler Johnson (2-Hooking) NDK 0x5 17:33
CC-7 Andreas Vlassopoulos (2-Roughing) 19:35
NDK-6 Jason Gregoire (2-Roughing) 19:35
NDK 3 - 3 5x5 Darcy Zajac (3) (Joe Finley, Chay Genoway) 19:54
NDK (+): 11,20,2,5,G31 CC (-): 11,14,25,24,G30

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3rd Period (20:00)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NDK 4 - 3 6x6 Brett Hextall (11) (Brad Miller) 1:49
NDK (+): 26,14,16,17,24,G31 CC (-): 16,28,18,15,4,G30
NDK-7 Matt Frattin (2-Hooking) CC 1x5 7:29
CC-8 Mike Testwuide (2-Holding) NDK 0x6 7:42
CC 4 - 4 5x5 GT Chad Rau (16) (Eric Walsky, Gabe Guentzel) 7:59
CC (+): 14,10,7,22,G30 NDK (-): 16,17,2,5,G31
CC-9 Mike Testwuide (2-Hooking) NDK 0x7 13:05

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Overtime (5:00)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Timeout - Colorado College 4:00
Timeout - North Dakota 4:20

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End of Game
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Scores from 2-27-2009

Friday, February 27, 2009

Atlantic Hockey
American Int'l 3 at Army 3 ot
Mercyhurst 4 at Canisius 1
Bentley 1 at Connecticut 4
Air Force 4 at RIT 6
Sacred Heart 2 at Holy Cross 5

Analysis
RIT beat Air Force Academy again 6-4 and is leading the AHA by two points.

CCHA
Ohio State 6 at Miami 2
Lake Superior 3 at Northern Michigan 7
Michigan 6 at Ferris State 1
Bowling Green 2 at Western Michigan 5
Michigan State 0 at Notre Dame 5

Analysis
tOSU beats Miami in Oxford and drops the RedHawks to 12th in the Pair Wise Rankings.
Notre Dame rolls over MSU, I watched this game for a while last night and Notre Dame took it to the Spartans. I don't think anyone wants to play that team in the NCAA tourney. Michigan rolls again.

CHA
Niagara 3 at Robert Morris 3 ot

Analysis
Niagara is 0-3-1 the last four games and is now probably locked in the second seed going into the CHA tourney in Bemidji in two weeks.

ECAC
Princeton 0 at Dartmouth 2
Cornell 2 at Yale 4
Clarkson 4 at Rensselaer 2
Quinnipiac 1 at Harvard 2
Colgate 3 at Brown 3 ot
St. Lawrence 2 at Union 0

Analysis
Yale is on top of the ECAC and the regular season champ. Cornell has kind of stumbled in February with a record of 3-4.

Hockey East
Mass.-Lowell 0 at Northeastern 3
Vermont 3 at Maine 2
Providence 1 at Boston College 5
New Hampshire 4 at Merrimack 3
Boston University 6 at Massachusetts 3

Analysis
Boston University 10-0-3 in their last thirteen games and has lost one game since December. Boston College won for the first time in 5 games.

WCHA
Minnesota-Duluth 2 at Minnesota 2 ot
Wisconsin 3 at Minnesota State 4 ot
St. Cloud State 1 at Denver 3

Analysis
UMD and Minnesota the sister kissing in Minneapolis. Come on Dogs beat the dirty Gophers tonight. MSU-M wins another game against the Badgers in Mankato and WCHA on ice official Todd Anderson is the center of another controversy. It's time for the league office to fire Todd Anderson because he is not good official.

Non-Conference
Alaska-Anchorage 1 at Alaska 0

Exhibition
US Under-18 Team 1 at Bemidji State 3

Is Pronger going to Boston?

I have seen this rumor and like the thought of Chris Pronger playing on the Bruins blue line. Could you imagine Pronger teamed up with Chara? Holy cow! That would be an awesome sight. I can't imagine the Bruins wanting to give up Phil Kessel. Kessel is a budding, up and coming star in the NHL that could very well be a 40-50 goal scoring in the next couple of years.

So who would the Bruins give up? They are loaded on the blue line but thin at forward. I can't see the Bruins trading Kessel, Wheeler, Lucic, Krejci or Ryder. The one of the most consistant lines for the Bruins as of late have been the Wheeler, Krejci Ryder line.

Latching onto Chris Pronger, Veteran in Bruins sights
By Stephen Harris --- Friday, February 27, 2009
If you believe what you hear from various NHL sources, you can bet the Bruins had many sets of eyes trained last night on Anaheim Ducks defenseman Chris Pronger.

And the Ducks were sizing up talent on the Bruins side, as well.

It’s believed the Ducks will deal away the multi-talented 34-year-old Pronger, and that the Bruins could be interested shoppers. That was certainly a hot topic at the Garden last night, site of the B’s 6-0 victory.

The obvious speculation is that the B’s end of the deal would be young speedster Phil Kessel [stats], their top goalscorer and one of the most dynamic offensive threats in the game.

“The chatter is increasing,” said B’s general manager Peter Chiarelli, “but I’m not getting any closer to doing anything. I don’t want to subtract anything from our team. I like our team and I like the chemistry.”

Notice he said he doesn’t want to subtract players. He didn’t say he wouldn’t do it. Chiarelli is understandably loath to part with a young talent like Kessel, a 21-year-old with the potential to be a 50-goal superstar.

Could Zach Parise get 50 goals?

It seems that it could be a very possible. Former Fighting Sioux hockey player Zach Parise scored his 36th goal of the season last night against the Colorado Avalanche and added his 37th assist of the season giving Parise 73 points for the season. Also Former Fighting Sioux hockey player Travis Zajac who is fourth on the Devils in scoring added a goal and two assists giving him (17-34-52).

Zach Parise feels scoring 50 goals for New Jersey Devils this season still possible.
by Rich Chere/The Star-Ledger --- Friday February 27, 2009.

Devils winger Zach Parise scored his 36th goal of the season Thursday against the Avalanche, when he beat defenseman Brett Clark to the puck then Andrew Raycroft top shelf. Zach Parise notched his 36th goal Thursday night against the Colorado Avalanche and it was a beauty.

But what about his chances of scoring 50 goals this season. He would become the first Devils player to do it.

"I hope so. I don't like talking about it. We'll see," Parise told me. "I guess I've been a pretty streaky scorer. Not so much this year, but in past years."

Parise is on pace to score 48 goals.

Randomization...

Excuse me if I am a little giddy today after watching my favorite team the Boston Bruins take apart their last two opponents scoring 12 goals in two games and giving up a meager one goal. How about Bruins goalie Tim Thomas for the league MVP? It seems the roar of the late 1980's early 1990's is back in Boston. I used to live in the Boston area from 1988 - 1990 and I was able to go to seven Bruin's game at the old Boston Garden. In my opinion this years Boston Bruin's hockey team is probably better than the team(s) that went to the Stanley cup playoffs in 1987-1988 and 1989-1990 season. This Years Bruins are bigger, bader, tough and better offensively and defensively that the last two Bruin's teams that went to the Stanley Cup finals.

First after re-watching the Lucic and Brown fight In response to BrentB's comments on another blog post; Yeah I think Milan Lucic crossed the line and violated the code last night by hitting a player that was laying on the ice. Was Lucic justified because Brown hit him before Lucic was ready to fight, I don't know. Here is what Fluto Shinzawa, Boston Globe had to say on the matter.

* Based on the ruling on Mike Brown (instigating, fighting, 10-minute misconduct), Milan Lucic had a reason to be upset with the Duck's early right to start their fight. The replay showed that Lucic might not have finished shedding his gloves before Brown got in his first pop. That shot prompted Lucic to continue punching Brown when he hit the deck -- usually considered a no-no between fighters.

Here is what Blake Wheeler had to say about last night's game.

"I think guys are playing more loose," said Blake Wheeler, who had two assists. "It might sound like a really easy thing to just flip the switch. But sometimes it's the hardest thing in the world out there to just relax, play your game, let loose, and go about your business. Everyone wanted to do the right thing. When we were struggling for a little bit, everyone wanted to get things going the right way and take it upon themselves. As a group, I think we've found our rhythm again with that calmness. We're going out there and reacting and just playing hard. We're confident that the results are going to be there."

The Boston Bruins are a little banged up after playing against the Dirty Ducks last night. The game was a head banger's ball.

Marc Savard and Milan Lucic, kept out of practice today because of upper-body injuries, are questionable for tomorrow. Marc Savard, roughed up in last night's second period, is questionable for tomorrow. Blake Wheeler took a Chris Pronger shot off the foot in the first period and didn't practice today, but Claude Julien said the rookie should be available tomorrow. Julien said there could be promotions from Providence today if neither Savard nor Lucic can go tomorrow.

A couple of former Fighting Sioux made Puck Daddy's Thursday's three stars. First Zach Parise made the second star of the night. Nice to see Zach Parise doing well, too bad it's for the New Jersey Devils. I hope the New Jersey Devils fall flat on their faces during the NHL playoffs. (Sorry Sioux7)

No. 2 star: Zach Parise, New Jersey Devils We hate to double up on a full-slate night, but Parise and his linemates were that dominant in keeping the heat off Brodeur in his return after four months in mothballs. Parise, Jamie Langenbrunner and Travis Zajac combined for eight points and half of New Jersey's 32 shots. The highlight goal of the evening came when Parise out-muscled Adam Foote before beating Raycroft top-shelf from close range. The goal was his 36th, tying him with Jeff Carter for second in the NHL. Parise added two assists and did some uncredited dirty work in front of the net on the Devils' fourth goal.

It sounds like former Fighting Sioux defensman Brian Lee didn't win over the hearts and minds of the officials last night as he spent a fair amount of time in the Sin Bin.

Ottawa rookie defenseman Brian Lee was called for three minor penalties in the second period against San Jose. The Sens killed the first infraction, but the Sharks scored twice when Lee protested a holding call and had an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty added to his punishment. Final score: 2-1.

The paint thinner will be flowing in Madison

The blog that Yost Built is reporting that Wisconsin and Michigan will be playing in an outdoor hockey game at Camp Randall the day before the Superbowl. Personally, I think the outdoor games are a mildly entertaining gimmick and your at the mercy of mother nature. I can't imagine sitting at a game a Memorial Stadium in Grand Forks, ND freezing in sub zero weather. I also have to admit that I have watched all the outdoor games to date.

Wisconsin formally invites Michigan Wolverines to play outdoor hockey game at Camp Randall Stadium next February
by Kevin Ryan | The Ann Arbor News
Thursday February 26, 2009, 6:34 PM
The University of Wisconsin is banking on Camp Randall Stadium to draw a world-record crowd next year, but not for football.

The university has tendered a formal contract to the University of Michigan for an outdoor hockey game to be played at the 80,321-seat stadium Feb. 6, and the Wolverines are expected to accept the offer, Michigan associate head coach Mel Pearson said Thursday afternoon.

"We're just sort of reviewing (the contract) right now just to make sure everything checks out OK," Pearson said, adding he couldn't provide more details.

If Camp Randall filled to capacity for the Saturday game, it would shatter the current outdoor attendance record, which involves the Wolverines. Michigan and its biggest hockey rival, Michigan State, played to a 3-3 tie before 74,544 fans at Spartan Stadium on Oct. 6, 2001, in a game dubbed "The Cold War."

Fight night in Boston.

The "Big Bad Bruins" are back. I just got done watching the Ducks and Bruins beat each other up on my DVR. Wow! You have got to love the way Bruins TV announcer Jack Edwards calls a hockey fight. On the Lucic fight, I think Andy Brickley is right Mike Brown broke the code when he sucker punched Lucic in front of the Ducks goal and Milan Lucic hammered him. Incidentally, Milan Lucic suffered an upper body injury tonight and didn't play in the third period and I wonder if he broke his hand beating up Brown because he seemed to be favoring right hand in the penalty box after the fight with Brown. I am sure we will find out soon.

In the heavy weight fight of the night Shawn Thornton fought former Princeton grad George Parros. I have to give Thornton credit for fighting Parros because that is about only thing he is good at doing. Parros also took a run at Bruins Star Marc Savard tonight during the second period.

(Hockey fights on the game tonight) It seems that the Bruins have fought in bunches this season. The majority of the team’s fighting majors have come during six multi-fight games. Last night was no different in Boston’s game against the Ducks.

With the B’s up 3-0, a heavyweight bout between Shawn Thornton and George Parros took place eight minutes into the second period. Moments later, things escalated after Mike Brown took exception to Milan Lucic rushing in on Ducks goaltender Jonas Hiller, who was covering the puck.

Brown gave Lucic a gloved punch to the face and then continued to go after him. They dropped the gloves and Brown landed a right hand before losing his balance and falling to the ice. Lucic followed him down and hammered away until Sheldon Brookbank jumped on top of him. All of the other players on the ice (sans goalies) piled in but nothing else came of it. Brookbank was ejected from the game for being the third man in.

Less than a minute later, Marc Savard dropped the gloves after being roughed up by Scott Niedermayer, but the two only received roughings. The Bruins and Ducks won’t see each other again this season, but their next meeting might be one to look out for if certain players remain on the respective rosters.

INCH CHAT...

Here is the latest from this weeks INCH Chat, my favorite post from Jess Meyers talking about how he is going to be eating crow. I would be glad to cook him some on my grill at home.

John, (Hartford Conn): Thanks for taking our questions INCH! Being from the east coast I dont get to see much of the WCHA. Whats up with the Fighting Sioux and how come year after year they are able to make their second half run? Do they have a chance at a fifth straight Frozen Four?

Jess Myers: Every year we wonder if this will be the time that North Dakota is consistent start to finish, and every year it seems like the second-half surge is the rule in Grand Forks. Although this year a second half turnaround was maybe a bit more expected because NoDak started the season with so many talented, but young, players, and you're seeing the results of their increased maturity in the second half. As for the Frozen Four, I'd be surprised to see more than one WCHA team there, because I think the league is weaker overall. But if I had
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UND in SLP: St Louis Park, MN: In this week's INCH podcast, you mentioned that UND is winning, and finding ways to win, by playing as a team. In the off season I thought that T J Oshie leaving was a blessing in disguise. The effect of losing JPL and Chorney notwithstanding, Oshie leaving got rid of the Sioux's "star player" notoriety, leaving more room for team cohesion and chemistry, and the inherent success we are seeing. Any thoughts?

Joe Gladziszewski: Absolutely, and thanks for listening to the INCH Podcast. I don't think a team is necessarily helped by losing star players, but it can have a positive impact in re-distributing the roles on the team. The Sioux have done it with an overall team effort and everyone improving to put them in their current position to win the league.
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Jennifer (Madison, WI): What do you think of the battle in the WCHA? Who's going to win? Who will have home ice? And who will be on the road for playoffs? Should end up being a great Final Five this year!

Jess Myers: I'm eating a lot of crow and admitting that North Dakota is going to win the MacNaughton Cup. Denver is my pick for the Final Five title. I see NoDak, Denver, Wisconsin, Minnesota Duluth and Colorado College at home for the playoffs. And I think the Final Five is always a great tournament (often better than the Frozen Four) but I'd be curious to see how much the attendance would drop in St. Paul if the Gophers don't get there.

Another region of death?

Here are the latest Bracketology Brackets from Jayson Moy. Interesting is the first word that comes to mind. I could see a bracket like that. UND beats Princeton and then takes on the winner of UMD and Michigan, sweet. I would love to see Red Berenson's face on the ESPN selection show as Red is explaining how he likes the prospects of playing two of the WCHA tougher teams in their back yard. At least we don't have to go to Yost Ice Arena. If these were the brackets on selection Sunday DU would have a the easiest route to the Frozen Four.

Midwest Regional:

Air Force vs. Notre Dame
Miami vs. Northeastern

West Regional:

Minnesota-Duluth vs. Michigan
North Dakota vs. Princeton

East Regional:

St. Lawrence vs. Denver
Yale vs. Vermont

Northeast Regional:

Bemidji State vs. Boston University
New Hampshire vs. Cornell

Ralph Engelstad Arena in Lawsuit.

Here is an interesting story I don't think many people knew about. It has probably kind of flown under the radar. The company CIMCO that REA is suing is being represented by a UND grad as well.

Ralph Engelstad Arena sues over ‘inefficient’ ice-making
By: Archie Ingersoll, Grand Forks Herald
The ice in Ralph Engelstad Arena hovers just above 20 degrees — the ideal temperature for hockey.

But inches below the hard, fast surface, there’s a multimillion-dollar problem, according to the Grand Forks arena.

The Ralph says the systems that make ice in both rinks in the landmark arena weren’t built to agreed-upon specifications.

“The whole system is just running inefficiently,” said Pat Morley, REA’s attorney. “As a result, the maintenance and energy costs are … way, way too high.”

Because of this alleged inefficiency, REA has brought a lawsuit against CIMCO, a Canadian company that installed the rinks and the ice-making equipment.

But CIMCO’s attorney Mark Hanson argues that his client’s work is not causing The Ralph’s problem.

“We frankly don’t see any issues with the equipment and how it was installed,” he said. “We just believe the arena needs to make adjustments.”

Some residents of Grand Forks County recently received surveys in the mail about the suit from a consultant hired by CIMCO. Hanson said the surveys — which ask questions about REA, UND and its hockey program — were sent out to learn what type of juror could be fair and impartial. (Read the whole article right here)

February Last Games (Sioux 7)

Last week in the WCHA the playoff picture cleared up some. With UND sweeping UAA and DU sweeping UW, both teams have locked themselves into home ice. CC's sweep of UM helped them into 3rd place, but have only 3-games left. UMD took 3pts from MTU to help them stay in the race for home ice. MSU-Mankato is pretty much guaranteed a road trip to start the playoffs which means they join UAA and MTU as teams that will be on the road for the first round.


WCHA STANDINGS
1 North Dakota..............15-6-3...33
1 Denver......................15-7-3...33
3 Colorado College..........12-8-5...29
4 Wisconsin.................13-9-2...28
5 Minnesota-Duluth........10-8-6...26
6 St. Cloud State.........12-11-1...25
7 Minnesota..............10-10-4...24
8 Minnesota State........9-13-2...20
9 Alaska-Anchorage......7-14-5...19
10 Michigan Tech..........1-18-7...9


#16 Wisconsin at Minnesota State
This is the only series these two teams play against each other this year. Last season the Mavericks owned a 2-1-1 record against Bucky. The Badgers need some wins to keep their position in the top half of the league and improve their odds of getting into the NCAA tourney. It looks as if UW will most likely finish somewhere between 3rd and 6th place. While the Mavericks look to finish between 6th and 8th place. MSU-Mankato needs loads of luck to get home ice, so now they can play the spoiler role. UW is 3-3-0 and MSU-M is 2-3-1 in their last six games. Both teams were swept in their last WCHA series. The Mavs magic number seems to be 2, if they hold their opponents to 2 or fewer goals they have a good record, 11-0-1 overall. Bucky has been shut-out in 2 of the last 5 games, so they need to score. I'm going with the Mavericks this weekend, they had last weekend off to rest up and get ready for their final push. Mavericks sweep the Badgers.


#19 St. Cloud State at #5 Denver
The Pioneers are pretty much a lock for the NCAA tourney, and most likely will finish 1-2 in the league. The Huskies are only a point out of the final home ice spot, after a bye last weekend, so they need points to keep the dream alive. Back on Nov. 14-15 SCSU sweep DU at the National Hockey Center. DU is coming off a big road sweep of UW, so they hope to keep momentum rolling, and hope they do not suffer a let down, this weekend. The Huskies would like nothing better than to get a season sweep of DU and really improve their chances for home ice in two weeks. DU would like to take four points and lock them into at least #2 in the league. DU might be without forward Tyler Ruegsegger (5th in team scoring 12g, 11a) who suffered an "upper body injury" last weekend. With that in mind I'm going to call a split in this series. Huskies on Friday and Pioneers on Saturday.


#14 Minnesota-Duluth at #18 Minnesota
Well this is another big series in the race for home ice. IF the Bulldogs sweep the Gophers, UMD is in good shape to hold a playoff series, and the Gophers would be on the road, possible to Duluth... IF the Gophers sweep they would be in position to grab home ice, but would need some help this weekend and next. The Bulldogs are 4-6-4 away from the DECC, and the Gophers are 8-5-5 at Mariucci this season, but are 1-3-1 in their last 5 home games, ouch! If the UM doesn't get some points this weekend, Coach Lucia might feel worse now then when he had his medical condition earlier this year. UMD plays well when they have the lead, and UM has not played well when they have been trailing. With that said the first goal of the games is going to be important and I also say who ever scores first wins the game.


#13 Colorado College at #8 North Dakota (Sat. & Sun.)
The Sioux have secured home ice for the first round, and the Tigers are in a good spot to hold onto home ice. If UND can sweep CC they would only need one more win secure the top spot in the WCHA. CC has 3-games left, these two at Grand Forks and one at Denver, not an easy way to end the season. The Tigers got their second WCHA sweep of the season last weekend, their last was back in mid-October against MTU. While the Sioux swept UAA on the road, in doing so goalie Brad Eidsness became only the 3rd UND freshman goalie to hit the 20-win plateau, joining former Sioux greats Ed Belfour and Karl Goehring - Congratulations Brad! Since the start of 2009 the Sioux have been scoring over 4goals/game and giving up just a shade over 2 goals/game. I watched the CC-UM games last weekend, and CC capitalized on some UM mistakes and got a few bounces. The Tigers were outplayed by the Gophers for large chunks of time, and where out shot 37-19 on Saturday. I don't think they have "turned things around" in C-springs just yet. This is a big weekend for both teams, but with the Sioux rolling and being back at home and CC being 5-5-4 on the road this season, I'm taking the Sioux, sweep.


UAA at UAF (Non Conference)
All I know that this series is for the Governor's Cup, I hope Governor Sarah Palin presents the winners the Cup... A look the standing and records this year points to the Nanooks being the favorite. UAF is 4th in the CCHA and UAA is 9th in the WCHA. So with the "Battle for Alaska" going on this weekend in a home-and-home series, I'm backing the WCHA, and saying the Seawolves sweep the Nanooks.


MTU is on a bye week, next week they host the Gophers.

This is what I like to hear.

This is what I like to hear come out of a hockey coach's mouth. I don't know a lot of hockey fans that like to watch the neutral zone trap. I think the Wild need to adopt this philosophy. Kind of reminds me of the days when Dean Blais was coaching for the Fighting Sioux, race horse hockey.

“We want to attack,” Tortorella said. “I’m not interested in trapping. I’m just interested in getting some puck pressure. And if we have some breakdowns, we’ve got the best goalie in the league,” a reference to Henrik Lundqvist, in his fourth season.

When he coached Tampa Bay to a Stanley Cup in 2004, Tortorella used an all-out attacking style that gave lots of ice time to the immensely productive Vincent Lecavalier, Martin St. Louis and Brad Richards and the power-play specialist Dave Andreychuk. They controlled the puck in the other team’s end and often scored.

Andy Schneider vs. Justin Soryal

While surfing the net tonight I found this fight over on hockeyfights.com. The fight is between former Fighting Sioux defenseman Andy Schneider and Justin Soryal. Soryal is a goon who has been in an impressive sixteen fights this season while playing in the AHL. In comparison Andy Schneider has only been in two fight this season. Let's just say that Soryal's is probably playing for his fisticuffs.

INCH Pod Cast.

The latest INCH podcast, in my opinion is a must listen, there is some funny stuff on this podcast. (Click here to listen) For Fighting Sioux fans at about the 20:00 till 25:00 minute mark there is some really interesting stuff that Sioux fans will get a good chuckle out of. For the Golden Gopher fans the INCH boys all but said the Gophers are done.

Jason Blake News.

There has been a lot of speculation that Former Fighting Sioux forward Jason Blake might get moved at next weeks trade dead line. Fiona Quick reported that Leafs General Manager Brian Burke was at the last Wild game with the L.A. Kings. Is Doug Risebrough & company considering acquiring Jason Blake? Being a Wild fan I would love to see Blake playing for the team of 18,000.

** Jason Blake -- A surly outcast last year, he’s now Mr. Sunshine and attempting to become the first American to lead the Leafs in scoring since Ed Olczyk 20 years ago.
Personally, I would love to see a Former Fighting Sioux Hockey player and a American born hockey player as the top scorer for the Maple Leafs.

Jason Blake is a mess after running into Colby Armstrong check.

A still woozy Jason Blake was not on the ice for the Leafs noon-hour practice today and won’t make the trip to Ottawa for tomorrow’s date with the Senators.

In his place, the Leafs have recalled tough guy Andre Deveaux from their AHL affiliate, the Toronto Marlies. The 24-year-old, who has yet to make an NHL start, will more than just fill the spot on the roster. With 54 penalty minutes in 13 games, he figures to add some much needed toughness.

Here is a clip about the possibility of Jason Blake being moved at the Trade Deadline.

*on Blake

Position: Forward

This year: 56 games, 22 goals, 25 assists, 47 points

Why he might be moved: The veteran forward will likely be retired by the time Toronto starts to compete for a championship.

What he might be worth: Not much. Teams may be only willing to offer a reclamation project or a late-round draft choice.

Why teams are interested: Blake may not score 40 goals again, but a disastrous 2007-08 - 15 goals in 82 games - and time spent in head coach Ron Wilson's doghouse seems to have helped the speedy winger rediscover his offence.

Why he could stay: Despite his improved numbers, the only numbers that league GMs appear fixated on is Blake's age (35) and contract (US$4-million for the next three years).

The scouts say: "I think that the way he's played this year has proven that he's a guy - when motivated - who loves to score goals. You can find fault with him, but the fact of the matter is he has been producing."

University of North Dakota nickname group to meet

Here is the latest from the Fighting Sioux nick name group.

A committee considering the future of the University of North Dakota's Fighting Sioux nickname and Indian head logo has scheduled its first meeting.

Board of Higher Education member Grant Shaft is chairman of the group. He says it will meet by conference call at 3:30 p.m. Thursday.

The panel has 10 members. It includes representatives of UND and the Spirit Lake and Standing Rock Sioux tribes.

The group is supposed to talk with tribal leaders about whether UND may keep its Fighting Sioux athletics nickname and Indian head logo. The chairmen of the two tribes want UND to drop the nickname and logo.

The meeting's agenda says Shaft will discuss the committee's responsibilities and organization, and talk about a timeline for doing its work.