- Two 6-3 wins, two nights with 6 different scorers. Against this level of competition, being able to roll 4 lines that have the ability to score is a huge advantage. To me, it was the difference both nights, and will be key at the Frozen Four.
- To see how this team has improved upon last year, look no further than Lane Hutson. Last year against the Gophers, he struggled and was really a non-factor as they figured out how to neutralize his offensive zone wizardry. This time against Minnesota, he had perhaps his best game of the year, as Coach Pandolfo pointed out. Granted, the Gophers aren't the quite same team they were a year ago.
- Speaking of Lane, he has now somewhat quietly (though not so quietly anymore) eclipsed last season's scoring numbers. Might he change some minds about where he should rank among Hobey Baker finalists? Last year, many felt not being in the final 3 was a slight.
- Another key to being able to roll 4 lines has been discipline. Kaplan and Tuch stayed out of the box, which allows their line (and our most reliable center in Stevens) to play significant minutes while protecting a lead.
- Wilmer is clearly struggling. Didn't play the second half of either game. He had another blind back-pass giveaway that led to a good scoring opportunity for the Gophers. It reminds me of how Jack Hughes was playing early in the year. Hopefully the coaching staff can get Jeremy to make similar adjustments, though he doesn't have the size or physical side to his game that Hughes does. Otherwise, I wonder if it's possible that he doesn't dress.
- Caron played well enough to win, making a key save on Nelson on a breakaway. He might want the first goal back, but he won the goaltending battle, which is what the team needs.
- Obviously, Celebrini just continues to impress. Five points in two NCAA games, and his usual hustle in all zones. It's nice to see/hear the reaction from people that haven't seen him all season, that he is more than just an offensive threat.
-BU's freshman line--Celebrini, Harvey & Lachance--doesn't have to huge numbers of the BC trio, but they continue to deliver on the biggest stage. Putting together three of the USHL's top four goal scorers from a year ago has given the Terrier offense its best weapon.
- And of course, kudos to the coaching staff for getting this team back to the FF despite having to play out west, in essentially a road game on Saturday. The program is in good hands once again!
