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Section 1A
1.  New Prague (18-4-3)
2.  Mankato West (23-2-0)
3.  Rochester Lourdes (8-18-1)
4.  Albert Lea (14-10-1)
5.  Northfield (10-14-1)
6.  Faribault (11-11-1)
7.  Le Seur-Henderson/St. Peter (15-7-2)
8.  La Crescent (16-5-4)
9.  Red Wing (3-22-0)
10.  Mankato East/Loyola (8-17-0)
11.  Austin (3-21-1)
12.  Winona (3-20-2)
13.  Waseca (6-15-1)

Outlook:  The largest section in all of boys hockey from either class is one of the most difficult to analyze.  What is given is that the New Prague Trojans finished  8-0 in Section 1A games and finished second behind Section 1AA’s Farmington in the Missota Conference.  The Mankato West Scarlets lost just two games this season which were back-to-back on December 28th and January 4th.  The first loss was to Notre Dame Academy in overtime by a score of 3-2 and the second was to New Prague by a score of 2-1.  The Scarlets posted a 13-1 recored in Section 1A play and were perfect in winning the Big 9 Conference with an 18-0 record.  West  lit it up offensively with 152 goals and have been down right filthy defensively in allowing just 32 goals against. Interestingly, the Rochester Lourdes Eagles captured the third seed with an 8-18-1 record while grinding through a tough independent schedule.  The Eagles are on a run of five straight State Tournament appearances and will have their work cut out for them to make it six straight.  Albert Lea had a solid Big 9 season and finishing fourth in the conference.  Ten teams begin play on Tuesday for the right to move on and play the top four seeds in the Section 1A quarterfinals.  MNHockeyMag Predicts:  Mankato West over New Prague

Section 2A
1.  Breck School (19-5-1)
2.  Orono (16-8-1)
3.  Bloomington Kennedy (12-11-2)
4.  Delano/Rockford (14-10-1)
5.  Blake School (15-10-0)
6.  Mound-Westonka (12-11-2)
7.  Chaska (10-13-2)
8.  St. Louis Park (9-14-2)
9.  Waconia (9-15-1)
10.  Minneapolis (8-15-1)
11.  Richfield (10-15-0)

Outlook: Not many sections have the 11th seeded team with10 wins and that is a statement for the Section 2A as Richfield pulls in with the last spot but had a productive regular season.  The section championship has gone to the Breck School each of the last 5 seasons and the previous three titles were earned by the Blake school totaling the last 8 by those programs.  This season will provide a stiff challenge for the Breck Mustangs as the disciplined Orono Spartans, the deep Bloomington Kennedy Eagles, and the defensively sound Delano/Rockford Tigers are all legitimate title contenders and can beat anyone on any given day.  Breck (5-0-0), Orono (6-3-0), Bloomington Kennedy (4-1-1),  Delano (5-5-0) and Mound-Westonka (4-2-1) pace the way with the best section 2A records.  The MNHockeyMag Predicts:  Breck over Bloomington Kennedy

Section 3A
1.  Luverne (24-0-1)
2.  New Ulm (15-10-0)
3.  Willmar (11-12-1)
4.  Hutchinson (10-13-1)
5.  Marshall (12-12-0)
6.  Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato (5-18-1)
7.  Windom Area (9-13-1)
8.  Morris/Benson Area (8-16-1)
9.  Fairmont (3-19-1)
10.  Redwood Valley (4-14-0)
11.  Worthington (2-16-0)

Outlook: What more can be said about the Luverne Cardinals?  At 24-0-1 they own the only unbeaten record in Minnesota High School hockey.  The Cards have scored a league best 183 goals and allowed a league low 29 against while decimating their opponents, many in the Section 3A.  This team was first on the MNHockeyMag radar a couple of months back and they are not only talented but young.  Luverne has balance between seniors all the way down to the eighth grader Jaxon Nelson (25g-27a-52pts).  The competition for the Section title will come from New Ulm, Willmar, Hutchinson, and Marshall.  Luverne’s 15-0 section record suggests it will be difficult for anyone to deny the Cardinals a spot in St. Paul this year. MNHockeyMag Predicts:  Luverne over New Ulm

Section 4A
1.  Totino Grace (14-10-1)
2.  Mahtomedi (14-10-0)
3.  St. Paul Academy (17-8-0)
4.  South St. Paul (10-14-1)
5.  Minnehaha Academy (12-12-0)
6.  Simley (10-14-0)
7.  Acheiver Academy (16-7-2)
8.  Henry Sibley (5-18-2)
10.  St. Paul Johnson (4-19-2)
11.  St. Paul Highland Park  (1-22-1)

Outlook:  Gone is St. Thomas Academy to the Class AA and for the first time in three seasons a new Section 4A and State Championship team will be crowned with their departure.  Leading the way for the Section 4A is a trio of teams that could be considered legitimate title contenders.  The Totino-Grace Eagles finished 8-0 in the North Suburban Conference and only played two Section 4A games this season finishing 1-1. The Mahtomedi Zephyrs posted a 6-1 section record, and in head to head games, the Zephyrs topped Totino-Grace 4-3 and lost to the St. Paul Academy Spartans by a score of 3-2.  The Spartans were an impressive 8-1 in section games.  South St. Paul and Minnehaha Academy have a chance to make things interesting in the 4A this season.  MNHockeyMag Predicts:  Mahtomedi over Totino-Grace

Section 5A
1.  Chisago Lakes Area (16-8-0)
2.  Princeton (13-11-0)
3.  Spring Lake Park (18-7-0)
4.  Proctor (7-18-0)
5.  Providence Academy (6-19-0)
6.  Mora/Hinckley-Finlayson (15-9-1)
7.  Legacy Christian (11-12-0)
8.  Pine City/Rush City (5-19-0)
9.  North Branch (3-20-0)
10.  Moose Lake Area (5-18-0)

Outlook:  An overhaul of Section 5A saw perennial Section 5A champion Hermantown return to the Section 7A, Rogers moved up to Class AA, and St. Cloud Cathedral was shifted to the geographically friendly Section 6A.  It opened up opportunities for a number of teams.  Chisago Lakes holds down the top seed and finished with a 6-0 record in section games.  Their 8-3 conference record was good for third place in the Mississippi 8 conference.  Princeton finished 6th in the Mississippi 8 and were 5-2 in Section 5A games.  Two losses against Chisago Lakes (8-2) and (3-2) represent their only two losses in the section.  The Spring Lake Park Panthers have the most wins of any team in the section with 18 during the regular season and are 3-2 in section play. The Panther section losses were to Chisago Lakes (5-2) and Princeton (5-3).  MNHockeyMag Predicts: Chisago Lakes over Spring Lake Park

Section 6A
1.  St. Cloud Cathedral (16-7-1)
2.  Alexandria (16-5-3)
3.  St. Cloud Apollo (15-10-0)
4.  Sauk Rapids-Rice (17-8-0)
5.  Sartell-St. Stephen (12-12-1)
6.  Fergus Falls (9-13-1)
7.  Prairie Center Area (15-10-0)
8.  Little Falls (3-20-2)
9.  Northern Lakes (9-16-0)
10.  Wadena-Deer Creek (4-20-1)
11.  Breckenridge/Wahpeton (3-13-2)

Outlook:  The top four teams, St. Cloud Cathedral, Alexandria, St. Cloud Apollo, and Sauk Rapids-Rice have the potential to earn the Section 6A title.  Like many other sections, the balance on the top end of the 6A is impressive.  Each of the top four seeds won between 15-17 games on the season including earning between 7 and 8 sectional wins this year.  Each of the four team’s schedules are difficult this year as well and that is not to say Sartell-St. Stephen, Fergus Falls, or Prairie Center Area won’t have a say in their games with the top four.  When teams are close, it usually comes down to who can keep the puck out of the net.  Alexandria had the most success in the regular season allowing just 46 against yet Cathedral (57), Apollo (58), and Sauk Rapids-Rice (61) are right in the same defensive mix. Cathedral went through a swoon of losing 6 out of 7 games including a pair of one goal games in the Granite City Showcase to Sauk Rapids-Rice  and Sartell-St. Stephen and then rebounded to go on a nine game unbeaten string (8-0-1).  Like all teams in this section they took turns beating each other making calling a winner very difficult.  MnHockeyMag Predicts:  St. Cloud Cathedral over Alexandria

Section 7A
1.  Hermantown (19-4-2)
2.  Duluth Marshall (16-8-1)
3.  Virginia/Mountain Iron-Buhl (17-7-1)
4.  Duluth Denfeld (13-10-2)
5.  Hibbing/Chisholm (10-13-1)
6.  Eveleth-Gilbert (14-10-1)
7.  North Sore (14-9-2)
8.  International Falls (6-17-1)
9.  Greenway (6-16-3)
10.  Ely/Northeast Range (1-17-0)

Outlook:  The Hermantown Hawks were placed back in the geographically friendly  Northeastern Section 7A.  That was great news for the members of the 5A as Hermantown won the last four section titles and 6 of the last 8.  Things don’t get easier for the Hawks as there are legitimate challenges in this section.  VMIB cleaned up on the Section in posting a 9-1-1 record and some of their wins were against the lower end of the seeded.  With some solid wins this year and are back in the mix once again, the Blue Devils of Virgina/Mountain Iron-Buhl are relevant once again in section discussions.  Duluth Marshall plays a difficult schedule that includes games against high end Class AA teams and they closed out the season on a 4-0 run outscoring their opponents 26-2.  The Duluth Denfeld Hunters have proven they can play with anyone that included a one goal overtime loss and tie to top seeded Hermantown and a 3-2 win over number two seed Duluth Marshall. They lost to VMIB in their fifth game of the season which plummeted their record to 1-4 and since have closed with a 6-2-2 record including a 4-0-1 record in their last five.  That leaves the top seeded Hawks who are playoff tested and know the drill of one and done.  With just four losses on the season that included a difficult schedule, the Hawks are the favorites to represent the section.  As the results have dictated, anything can happen with these teams. MNHockeyMag Predicts:  Hermantwon over Duluth Marshall

Section 8A
1.  East Grand Forks (22-2-1)
2.  Warroad (20-4-1)
3.  Thief River Falls (14-10-1)
4.  Kittson Central (16-5-2)
5.  Detroit Lakes (16-7-1)
6.  Park Rapids Area (17-6-3)
7.  Crookston (6-15-4)
8.  Lake of the Woods (5-17-3)
9.  Bagley/Fosston (2-20-0)

Outlook:  The East Grand Forks Green Wave have been dominant this season, particularly in their defensive zone where six returning defensemen from last year’s state tournament qualifier have made them nearly impenetrable.  Currently, the Green Wave are on a 14-game winning streak and have not given up more than two goals against during that stretch.  With nine shutouts on the season and only 30 goals against in 25 games, they have the key elements to not only win the section but the State Tournament. Their only resounding loss (at Breck) came a day after defeating then #1AA Blaine the night before.  But it won’t be as easy as it sounds.  A major road-block for the Green Wave is the Warroad Warriors who have the offensive flair to challenge the stifling defensive brand of the Green Wave.  The Warriors have tallied 142 goals, many off the sticks of the state’s top three point producers in Kobe Roth (40g-45a-85pts), Jared Bethune (31g-53a-84pts), and Kyle Sylvester (36g-47a-83pts). That trio will see a ton of ice time throughout the playoffs and make the Warriors the most dangerous two seed in the state.  Don’t count out annually strong Thief River Falls, who under coach Tim Bergland also pose a threat to represent the section. Still, it’s tough to go against the defending section champs.   MNHockeyMag Predicts:  East Grand Forks over Warroad

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Featured Image:
St. Cloud Cathedral coach Eric Johnson instructs his young team during preseason scrimmages in Moorhead in late November.
(Photo / Tim Kolehmainen)

The final 2013-14 MHM Class 1A top 10 rankings see a bit of shifting between the programs, but no new teams managed to crack high school hockey’s version of the G10. East Grand Forks retained its top ranking again, but western suburban private school power Breck has surged into the No. 2 spot.

Class A rankings

1. East Grand Forks (22-2-1)

Last week: vs. Thief River Falls (W 6-1)

This week: Section 8A quarterfinals vs. TBD (2/20)

Ending the season on a 14-game winning streak, East Grand Forks earned the top seed in the tough Section 8A playoffs — and the top ranking in our final Class 1A poll of the season. The Green Wave continued their withering defensive efforts, allowing a single goal to rival Thief River Falls. Only two teams all season have scored more than two goals against East Grand Forks (Breck in a 6-0 victory on Dec. 14 and Roseau in an 8-3 loss on Jan. 14). They’ve posted seven shutouts and another 11 games in which they’ve allowed just one goal. If the cliché holds that defense wins championships, the title is certainly going to go through East Grand Forks this winter.

2. Breck (19-5-1)

Last week: vs. Minnehaha Academy (W 9-0), at Blake (W 5-1)

This week: Section 2A quarterfinals vs. TBD (2/21)

Breck claimed the No. 1 seed in the upcoming Section 2A quarterfinals and hopes to continue its run of state tournament berths. The only Minnesota-based team to defeat East Grand Forks this year, Breck has won eight straight since a mid-season struggle. In a nine-game span from Dec. 26 through Jan. 21, the Mustangs went 4-5-0. But their offense has responded in the final month of the regular season, paced by Michael Orke (23-25-48) and Chase Ellingson (20-28-48). Breck also has the comfort of playing in front of playoff-tested goaltender Henry Johnson (15-5-1, 2.06, .915).

3. Warroad (20-4-1)

Last week: at Lake of the Woods (W 10-0)

This week: Section 8A quarterfinals vs. TBD (2/20)

Warroad claimed the No. 2 seed in the Section 8A playoffs but is a dangerous team, even though the Warriors lost and tied top-ranked and top-seeded East Grand Forks in their two meetings. A potential rematch in the section final could set up as the state’s best defense against its top line in Warroad’s Kyle Sylvester (36-47-83), Kobe Roth (40-45-85) and Jared Bethune (31-53-84). No other top line has the firepower of the Warriors’ unit, but is there enough depth to make a deep playoff run and get to the X? Warroad’s next top three scorers are all defensemen: Luke Jaycox (3-20-23), Nick Jaycox (7-13-20) and Blayke Nelson (5-11-16). Only three other skaters have more than a single goal.

4. Hermantown (19-4-2)

Last week: vs. Superior, WI (T 2-2), vs. Hibbing/Chisholm (W 5-2)

This week: Section 7A quarterfinals vs. TBD (2/20)

Hermantown, shifted back with its neighbors in the northeast in Section 7A, captured the top seed for the playoffs. But the Hawks aren’t flying high entering the playoffs, as they finished 2-1-2 in their last five games, including a tie with potential section foe Duluth Denfeld on Feb. 3. Hermantown, the four-time state Class 1A runner-up, does have the benefit of plenty of playoff experience as well as a balanced and deep lineup. Ryan Kero (18-23-41) leads six players with double-digit goals and an even dozen with double-figure points.

5. Mankato West (23-2-0)

Last week: vs. Albert Lea (W 3-0), vs. Rochester Century (W 4-2)

This week: Section 1A quarterfinals vs. TBD (2/20)

Despite losing only two games all season, Mankato West was dropped to the No. 2 seed in the Section 1A playoffs due to a 2-1 loss to New Prague, the top seed. Since that loss on Jan. 4, the Scarlets have won 12 straight games, allowing more than two goals just once (a 6-3 win over Rochester Mayo on Feb. 8) and with three shutouts. West draws plenty of notice for its offense, anchored by Derek Frentz (22-45-67) and Nick Campbell (21-29-50), but its defensively where the Scarlets have been equally impressive — and where they’ll make hay in the playoffs. Goaltenders Conor Wollenzien (14-1-0, 1.13, .930) and Jake Spiess (9-1-0, 1.49, .903) have combined for eight shutouts on the year.

6. Luverne (24-0-1)

Last week: at Providence Academy (W 6-2)

This week: Section 3A quarterfinals vs. TBD (2/20)

The Cardinals capped the only unbeaten season in the state with a victory at Providence Academy. They also earned the No. 1 seed in the Section 3A playoffs and should be considered a heavy favorite to reach their first-ever state tournament. Luverne is the top scoring team in the state and the stingiest defensive team. What more could detractors want? Perhaps a tougher schedule? But more importantly, a first state tournament berth. Led by freshman Chaz Smedsrud (35-45-80), the Cardinals hope this is the year they make that breakthrough.

7. Duluth Marshall (16-8-1)

Last week: at Greenway (W 8-0), vs. St. Cloud Cathedral (W 5-1)

This week: Section 7A quarterfinals vs. TBD (2/20)

The two-time defending Section 7A champions were awarded the No. 2 seed this winter, as they slipped behind Hermantown, which came over from Section 5A after four straight state runner-up finishes. That No. 2 seed is no knock on Marshall and its’ talent, but the Hilltoppers did lose to both Hermantown and fourth-seeded Duluth Denfeld during the regular season. Senior leading scorer Luke Pavelich (20-18-38) has been on fire recently, posting six goals in his last three games. Junior goaltender Alex Murray (15-7-0, 2.18, .906) has also been key, allowing only two goals in his last four starts.

8. New Prague (18-4-3)

Last week: vs. Red Wing (W 4-1), at Northfield (W 6-3)

This week: Section 1A quarterfinals vs. TBD (2/20)

New Prague earned the top seed in the upcoming Section 1A playoffs, courtesy of a 2-1 regular season victory over second-seeded Mankato West. The Trojans are seeking their first-ever state tournament bid, something that has died at the hands of powerful Rochester Lourdes the past five years. But Lourdes was rebuilding this year, setting up what looks like a showdown between New Prague and West in the final. It could be a doozy, as New Prague has played a host of close games — three times, three single-goal losses, and six one-goal victories. That’s nearly half of the games coming down to the bitter end. Senior Augie Isaacson (23-29-52) is completing his final season with a flourish, scoring seven goals in his last six games.

9. St. Cloud Cathedral (17-7-1)

Last week: at Orono (T 2-2), vs. Delano (W 4-1), at Duluth Marshall (L 5-1)

This week: Section 6A quarterfinals vs. Little Falls (2/18)

In its first season in Section 6A, St. Cloud Cathedral captured the top seed in the upcoming playoffs, despite a 1-1-1 record in the final week. But it can be argued that no one in the section played a tougher schedule than the Crusaders. Their seven losses included ones to teams ranked No. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 7 in the final Class 1A poll. But for other Section 6A teams looking for hope, there was a pair of one-goal losses to section rivals Sauk Rapids-Rice and Sartell-St. Stephen at midseason. Should Cathedral beat Little Falls in the Nos. 1-8 seeding game, they’d face the winner between those teams in the semifinals. Cathedral hasn’t had much scoring balance, although sophomore Logan Neu (16-15-31) has goals in eight of his last 10 games.

10. Totino-Grace (14-10-1)

Last week: at Wayzata (L 9-0), vs. Robbinsdale Cooper (W 7-3), at Rochester Lourdes (W 6-1), vs. Roseville (L 4-1)

This week: Section 4A quarterfinals vs. TBD (2/20)

Totino-Grace surged into the top seed in the Section 4A playoffs, which is missing a familiar face after three-time Class 1A state champion St. Thomas Academy left the section for Class 2A. The Eagles won’t miss the Cadets, nor will the other teams in 4A such as second-seeded Mahtomedi. While the Eagles are the favorite, they did lost to Mahtomedi way back on Dec. 10, 4-3. But that was before Nick Tandeski (15-14-29) and Kai Barber (15-11-26) began to carry the offense.  Barber hasn’t scored since a hat trick against Benilde on Feb. 4 (five games), while Tandeski has just two in that span.

Others receiving votes:

Duluth Denfeld, Mahtomedi, Thief River Falls, Alexandria, Virginia/MIB, Blake, St. Paul Academy.

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The answers are below.

Class A rankings

1. East Grand Forks (21-2-1)

Last week: at Bemidji (3-0 W), vs. Roseau (6-2 W)

This week: vs. Thief River Falls (2/11)

The top spot in the rankings again goes to East Grand Forks, which has proven to be consistent and dependable. The Green Wave beat a pair of Class 2A teams last week by decent margins to stretch their winning streak to 13 games and in doing so, actually lowered their goals against average to 1.15 per game — the second-best in the state. Only twice all year has East Grand Forks allowed more than two goals in a game and it has seven shutouts. The Green Wave don’t even allow many shots to reach goaltender Josh Weber (17-1-1, 1.22, .920). He’s facing an average of just 14.3 shots per game. Offensively, East Grand Forks has been buoyed by the return of Dixon Bowen (13-11-24) from an injury that forced him to miss 10 games. The junior is averaging almost a goal and two points per game, including eight combined points in his last three games. East Grand Forks will wrap up the top seed in Section 8A with a victory over Thief River Falls this week — and likely have done so even with a loss.

2. Hermantown (18-4-1)

Last week: at Duluth Denfeld (4-4 T), at Grand Rapids (5-3 L), at Brainerd (3-1 W)

This week: vs. Superior, WI (2/11), vs. Hibbing/Chisholm (2/14)

The four-time Class 1A state runners-up weren’t on top of their game last week, but the Hawks retain their No. 2 spot in the rankings. Hermantown tied Duluth Denfeld Monday night and then lost to Class 2A Grand Rapids Wednesday night before righting the ship over Brainerd. The Denfeld tie signaled that the Section 7A race may not be as cut-and-dried as it once seemed., although Bruce Plante’s club remains the favorite. Few Class 1A teams have the depth of talent the Hawks have, with six players in double-digit goals and another six with at least 10 points overall. Sophomore Cole Koepke (17-10-27) leads the team in goals, while Ryan Kero (16-23-39) is tops in points and has seven power play goals. Hermantown’s power play clicks at a 37.0 percent rate, a formidable weapon for a deep playoff run. But will a goaltender emerge as key to that run? Last year it was Adam Smith (9-3-0, 2.71, .894), but he’s split time with Jace Thomas (9-1-1, 1.67, .923) much of the season.

3. Warroad (19-4-1)

Last week: at Thief River Falls (2-1 L), at Bemidji (3-2 W)

This week: at Lake of the Woods (2/11)

Is the grinding workload for Warroad’s top line starting to wear it down? All year long, the trio of senior Kyle Sylvester (34-44-78) and juniors Jared Bethune (30-52-82) and Kobe Roth (36-42-78) have carried the Warriors offensively. They’re the top three scorers in the state and clearly the engine that makes the Warriors’ machine go. Their combined 100 goals is nearly 76 percent of the team’s total of 132. Equally effective on the power play (11 goals) as on the penalty kill (nine goals), that line is dangerous in all three zones. But because of all those factors, they’ve also logged a ton of minutes. In the last three games, Warroad has gone just 1-2-0 and scored a total of five goals — three by Sylvester. Will the playoffs recharge their offense? One detail that goes overlooked is that Warroad has been very good defensively. Alex Burke (19-4-1, 2.02, .910) has played nearly every minute in goal and defensemen Luke Jaycox (3-17-20), Nick Jaycox (7-10-17) and Blayke Nelson (5-11-16) are strong.

4. Breck (17-5-1)

Last week: St. Paul Academy (5-1 W), at St. Paul Johnson (4-1 W)

This week: vs. Minnehaha Academy (2/11), at Blake (2/15)

Watch out for Breck. Coach Les Larson has his team hitting on all cylinders as the playoffs approach. Since an upset loss to Totino-Grace on Jan. 21, the Mustangs have run off six consecutive victories by a combined 36-8 score — and that’s including an impressive 6-3 win over Class 2A St. Thomas Academy in which Michael Orke (19-22-41) exploded for a hat trick and Henry Johnson (13-5-1, 2.23, .911) stood on his head with 35 saves on 38 shots. Those are two of the key senior leaders for the Mustangs, who before St. Thomas Academy’s state title three-peat, was the big bully on the Class 1A block with championships in 2009 and 2010. The Mustangs are the clear favorite in Section 2A to make their sixth straight state tournament appearance, although there are a cluster of good teams chasing them, including this Saturday’s opponent, Blake.

5. Mankato West (21-2-0)

Last week: at Austin (10-0 W), Rochester Mayo (6-3 W)

This week: vs. Albert Lea (2/11), vs. Rochester Century (2/13)

West has won 10 straight games since a two-game losing streak at the turn of the year — and the Scarlets have rarely even been challenged. They’re outscoring the opposition by 5.0 goals per game (6.3 versus 1.3), the second-largest margin in the state. During the 10-game winning streak, they’ve allowed more than two goals just once (their most recent 6-3 victory over Class 2A Rochester Mayo) and have scored eight or more four times. Junior Conor Wollenzien (14-1-0, 1.13, .925) has started eight of those 10 games in goal and appears to have taken on a full-time role after splitting with Jake Spiess (7-1-0, 1.61, .898) for the first two months of the season. Derek Frentz (22-38-60) leads a potent Scarlets’ offense that has nine players with at least eight goals and a dozen with at least 12 points.

6. Luverne (23-0-1)

Last week: at Windom Area (10-2 W), at Hutchinson (7-1 W), vs. Breckenridge/Wahpeton (8-0 W)

This week: at Providence Academy (2/14)

And here’s the team with the largest goal differential in the state, as the Cardinals score a state-best 7.38 goals per game and allow only 1.12 goals per game, also the best in the state. They’re also the only unbeaten team (23-0-1) heading into their regular season finale at Providence Academy on Valentine’s night. Luverne has accomplished everything set in front of it save one — qualifying for the program’s first-ever state tournament. That’s the only goal the Cardinals have after being upset in last year’s Section 3A tournament. Sophomore Chaz Smedsrud (32-44-76) has a nose for the net, already recording a five-goal game (Dec. 14 against Morris/Benson Area) and two four-goal outbursts. He’s part of the “Kiddie Corps” line with eighth-grader Jaxon Nelson (26-33-59), who opened his first varsity campaign with six multi-goal efforts in his first nine games.

7. St. Cloud Cathedral (16-6-0)

Last week: vs. Achiever Academy (4-1 W), vs. St. Cloud Apollo (6-3 W)

This week: at Orono (2/11), vs. Delano (2/13), at Duluth Marshall (2/15)

Here come the Crusaders. St. Cloud Cathedral coach Eric Johnson has a young team loaded with sophomores, but he challenged them with an intense January schedule that included the top four ranked teams in Class 1A (East Grand Forks, Hermantown, Warroad and Breck) all on the road. Perhaps not unexpectedly, the Crusaders lost all four while only scoring two goals. But since that dip, Cathedral has won seven straight to regain the favorite’s role in Section 6A. Senior Will Hammer (20-22-42) certainly has done his part, carrying the offense over those seven contests with 13 goals and 21 points — scoring at least two points in every one. He’ll need help, and a season-ending tilt at No. 8 Duluth Marshall should provide insight as to whether Cathedral is ready to make a big playoff push.

8. Duluth Marshall (14-8-1)

Last week: at Virginia/MIB (5-0 W)

This week: at Greenway (2/11), vs. St. Cloud Cathedral (2/15)

It’s tough to know what to make of Duluth Marshall this year. The Hilltoppers have talent and it’s shown in some impressive results, such as one-goal victories over Totino-Grace and Breck and a win over Class 2A Grand Rapids. But they’ve also stumbled against some of the better Class 1A teams since the turn of the year, losing 6-2 to Hermantown, 5-2 to Warroad and 3-2 to Section 7A rival Duluth Denfeld. In the past seven games, the ‘Toppers are 4-3-0. They did win a big section seeding contest at Virginia/Mt. Iron-Buhl last Thursday, 5-0 behind a hat trick from leading scorer Luke Pavelich (17-18-35) and a 23-save shutout from junior goaltender Alex Murray (13-7-0, 2.35, .903). Perhaps that result signaled Marshall’s readiness for a deep playoff run.

9. New Prague (16-4-3)

Last week: at Holy Angels (6-4 W), Rochester Lourdes (4-0 W)

This week: vs. Red Wing (2/11), at Northfield (2/15)

The Trojans responded to their first losing streak of the year by winning three straight games to hang in the top 10 rankings, although the games were unusual. New Prague posted a total of 19 goals in the three games, a much-higher output than their 4.37 goals per game average. And even including a 4-0 shutout of Rochester Lourdes last Saturday, their defense has allowed 20 goals in the last five games. Coach Chris Lonke’s team built its resume earlier this year on low-scoring, tight-checking victories, so the sudden outburst of goals is odd. Sophomore Alex Gregor (18-19-37) has scored in four straight games and is second to Augie Isaacson (20-28-48) in goals and third behind Isaacson and Seth Kriha (11-31-42) in points.

10. Totino-Grace (12-8-1)

Last week: vs. Benilde-St. Margaret’s (6-4 W), vs. Irondale (2-0 W)

This week: at Wayzata (2/11), vs. Robbinsdale Cooper (2/13), at Rochester Lourdes (2/15), vs. Roseville (2/17)

It has become impossible to ignore what Totino-Grace has done in recent weeks, as the Eagles surge into the top-10 rankings for the first time since early December.  Since losing to Duluth Marshall on Jan. 4, the Eagles are 8-2-0 (losing only to St. Cloud Cathedral and Hermantown) and have beaten both Breck and Class 2A power Benilde-St. Margaret’s. After struggling to score earlier this year, the Eagles have broken out in recent games behind Nick Tandeski (14-12-26) and Kai Barber (15-10-25). Coach Mark Loahr also won his 500^th career game in the 3-1 victory over Breck on Jan. 21.

Others receiving votes:

Virginia/MIB, Alexandria, Thief River Falls, St. Paul Academy, Delano, Orono, Duluth Denfeld, Blake.

The post MHM Class A Top Ten 2/10/2014 appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

For the third consecutive week, we have a new No. 1 team atop the rankings. Two weeks ago, Breck occupied that spot until being beaten by Duluth Marshall. Last week, Hermantown took over the No. 1 ranking but lost to White Bear Lake.

So who gets moved to the head of the class?

Class A rankings

1. East Grand Forks (16-2-1)

Last week: at Thief River Falls (3-2 W), vs. Grand Forks Red River (5-0 W), vs. Moorhead (4-1 W)

This week: vs. Crookston (1/28), at Kittson Central (1/30), at Warroad (2/1)

Featured Image:
Warroad’s Nick Jaycox (33) steps into East Grand Forks’ Brandon Loven (18) in the 2013 Section 8A final.
(Photo/Tim Kolehmainen)

We’re going with the touch of defense atop the rankings this week. Only Luverne has a lower goals against average than East Grand Forks, which has stymied opponents at just 1.32 goals per game. But the Green Wave aren’t just keeping teams off the scoreboard, they’re keeping them from even getting shots toward the net. Opponents are averaging just 14.3 shots on goal per game and East Grand Forks has allowed more than 20 shots on goal in only three games all year and more than two goals just twice. Josh Weber (12-1-1, 1.37, .914) has been solid since taking over the full time goaltending position, but he has plenty of defensive help from the entire Green Wave team. Grant Loven (8-17-25) leads the East Siders in scoring, just ahead of Reed Corbid (10-14-24). Dixon Bowen (8-4-12) has also been streaking since returning to the lineup from injury.

2. Warroad (17-2-1)

Last week: at Crookston (8-2 W), at Duluth Marshall (5-2 W), at Duluth Denfeld (7-3 W)

This week: vs. Roseau (1/28), vs. East Grand Forks (2/1)

And here’s your offensive treat up in Warroad. The Warriors have the most potent line in the state in juniors Kobe Roth (36-39-75) and Jared Bethune (29-45-74) and senior Kyle Sylvester (28-43-71). They’re the top three scorers in the state in either class and have carried the Warriors offense all season. Roth is diminutive, but as crafty and slick as any player in the state. He’s tough to track on the ice, let alone get a clean shot at him. Bethune is bigger and more of a power forward who also has great hands, as is Sylvester, who also plays with an edge to his game. Both Roth and Bethune recently gave their verbals to the University of Minnesota-Duluth. Lost in all that offense, though, has been a terrific defense anchored by Luke Jaycox (3-15-18), Nick Jaycox (6-10-16) and Blayke Nelson (5-11-16). Warroad only allows 1.75 goals per game, as well. A huge game looms this Saturday as the Warriors host No. 1 East Grand Forks.

3. Hermantown (15-3-0)

Last week: vs. Proctor (8-1 W), vs. White Bear Lake (4-1 L), at New Prague (7-3 W)

This week: at Cloquet/Esko/Carlton (1/30), vs. Totino-Grace (2/1)

It seems harsh to push Hermantown out of the top spot and down to the No. 3 ranking after a loss to Class 2A White Bear Lake. In fact, the Hawks’ only three losses have come to Class 2A teams, as they’re 11-0-0 against Class 1A teams and outscoring them 79-18. The Hawks play one team from each class this week, starting with a road game at rival Cloquet. But most interesting is Saturday’s home game against Totino-Grace, which has proven to be a giant-killer in recent weeks. The Eagles nearly cracked the top 10 this week and will provide Hermantown a great Class 1A test. The four-time defending Class 1A runners-up have four double-digit goal scorers in Ryan Kero (14-20-34), Nate Pionk (13-16-29), Scott Wasbotten (12-16-28) and Cole Koepke (13-7-20), showing their great balance. In all, nine players have at least 16 points and another five have between seven and nine points. Koepke, a sophomore, has surged recently, scoring six goals in his last four games.

4. Duluth Marshall (12-7-1)

Last week: vs. Hibbing/Chisholm (7-3 W), vs. Warroad (5-2 L), vs. Thief River Falls (3-0 W)

This week: at Duluth Denfeld (1/30), vs. Eveleth-Gilbert (2/1)

What to do about Duluth Marshall? The Hilltoppers clearly are a strong team and one deserving of a top-five ranking in Class 1A. They’re deep, talented and seemingly have no weak spots on the roster.  In recent weeks, the ‘Toppers have defeated previously No. 1-ranked Breck and shut down highly-regarded Totino-Grace, Thief River Falls and St. Paul Academy. But they also have seven losses on the season and are just 2-2-0 in their last four games. Could it be the lack of a true go-to superstar on the roster? Someone who can take over a game singlehandedly when needed? Luke Pavelich (14-15-29) leads the team in scoring and has eight power play goals, while sophomore Luke Dow (6-17-23) has inherited a playmaker’s role. But as of yet, there is no Judd Peterson-type player jumping to the forefront. It could still happen, though, as Marshall is very young. Many top players are sophomores and juniors, such as Cam McClure (10-7-17), Derek Farrell (5-13-18), Jack Dodd (7-10-17), Jordan Fralich (5-12-17), Peter Lenz (6-6-12), Lane Krenzen (4-8-12) and goaltender Alex Murray (11-6-0, 2.53, .898).

5. Breck (13-5-1)

Last week: vs. Totino-Grace (3-1 L), vs. Blake (4-2 W), vs. St. Thomas Academy (6-3 W)

This week: at St. Paul Como Park (1/28), at Minneapolis (2/1)

Speaking of teams that have made the rankings more difficult in recent weeks, that certainly includes Breck. Just two weeks ago, the Mustangs were romping through all comers in Class 1A and seemingly looking indestructible. Sure, they’d lost to Class 2A powers such as Edina, Duluth East and Moorhead, but those were forgivable losses by a total of five goals. But in the last two weeks, Breck has also proven vulnerable to good Class 1A teams, losing 3-2 to Duluth Marshall and 3-1 to Totino-Grace. Perhaps Les Larson’s team has turned the corner again after tripping up Class 2A St. Thomas Academy (the three-time champions in Class 1A) in its last game, 6-3 last Saturday. Michael Orke (16-17-33) notched a hat trick in that game, including two short-handed goals, while Henry Johnson (11-5-1, 2.37, .910) stood on his head with 35 saves. They’re two of the veteran leaders for the Mustangs who will carry the team forward. The schedule isn’t difficult the rest of the way, so Breck should enter the playoffs on a roll and regain confidence.

6. New Prague (13-3-3)

Last week: at Albert Lea (6-0 W), vs. Chanhassen (2-2 T), vs. Hermantown (7-3 L)

This week: at Farmington (1/28), vs. Shakopee (1/30)

The Trojans finally saw their 10-game unbeaten streak (9-0-1) end last Saturday in a 7-3 home loss to Hermantown. It was that stretch that vaulted New Prague into the top 10 and has kept it there despite the four-goal loss. That game was the first in more than a month that coach Chris Lonke’s team had allowed more than three goals. That defensive style is key to New Prague going forward, particularly with tough games against Farmington and always-dangerous Rochester Lourdes in early February. New Prague is still in the driver’s seat to gain the top seed in Section 1A, but Mankato West looms. Augie Isaacson (16-20-36), Seth Kriha (7-28-35), Alex Gregor (14-13-27) and Austin Kilian (15-9-24) power the Trojans’ offense, while Conner Wagner (13-3-3, 2.36, .901) has played nearly every minute in goal.

7. Mankato West (16-2-0)

Last week: at Mankato East (15-1 W), vs. Owatonna (4-1 W)

This week: vs. Rochester Lourdes (1/28), at Faribault (1/30), vs. Rochester John Marshall (2/1)

Next to Luverne, Mankato West has the most potent offense in the state in terms of statistics, as the Scarlets are averaging 6.28 goals per game. They padded that total last week with a 15-1 rout of crosstown rival Mankato East. They’re also the third-tightest defensive unit, allowing just 1.33 goals per game, and a perfect 12-0-0 in the Big 9 Conference. So what’s holding them in the No. 7 spot in the rankings behind New Prague? The Scarlet’s only loss to a Minnesota team, a 2-1 defeat at home to New Prague back on Jan. 4. Other than that one-goal loss and a one-goal defeat to Wisconsin powerhouse Notre Dame Academy on Dec. 28, Mankato West has been perfect. Derek Frentz (18-30-48) continues to lead the Scarlets in scoring, but he’s had plenty of help from Nick Campbell (16-21-37), Max Mettler (11-22-33), Cole Filler (12-13-25) and Galt Goettl (10-14-24).

8. Luverne (18-0-1)

Last week: at Morris/Benson Area (10-4 W)

This week: at Worthington (1/28), at Dodge County (2/1)

The Cardinals posted another 10 goals in their one game this past week, surging past Morris/Benson Area. Luverne has three unique statistics in its favor to this point in the season: it’s the only unbeaten team left in the state (18-0-1); it’s the highest-scoring team in the state (7.26 goals per game on average); and it’s also the stingiest defensive team in the state (just 1.16 goals per game against on average). So why aren’t the Cardinals moving up from the No. 8 spot in the rankings? As in college football’s BCS system, it’s all about the schedule. Luverne is tucked in the Southwest Conference and in Section 3A, which have traditionally not been a hotbed of hockey. The Cardinals have taken care of business in that circuit, and also had an impressive showing in the Schwan Cup over the holidays, beating Spring Lake Park and Bloomington Kennedy and edging Class 2A St. Michael-Albertville in a shootout (the game counts as a tie). But outside of that, there are no other top-20 caliber teams on the schedule. That isn’t Luverne’s fault and we certainly like the Cardinals more than most ranking systems. The Cardinals are at least two lines deep and have talented defensemen and a veteran goalie in Kendall Meyer (12-0-1, 1.20, .956). It will be interesting to see the results if Luverne gets through to the state tournament.

9. Orono (14-5-0)

Last week: vs. Mound-Westonka (5-0 W), at Hutchinson (5-2 W)

This week: at Waconia (1/28), at Delano (2/1)

The Spartans continue to win and continue to hang onto a top 10 ranking despite a push from some of the teams below them, such as Alexandria and Totino-Grace. Orono took care of business with a pair of relatively easy Wright County Conference wins last week, scoring five goals in each against Mound-Westonka and Hutchinson. Will Dittrich (3-1-4) had a big week, tallying the first three goals of his season, as did David McCuskey (7-6-13) with two goals and three assists combined. Getting contributions from the second and third lines is key to Orono’s success when it reaches the Section 2A playoffs — with Breck looming as the clear favorite. Another big game arrives this week with a visit to Delano, which should also be a top contender in the section.

10. St. Cloud Cathedral (13-6-0)

Last week: at Monticello/AML (4-2 W), vs. Totino-Grace (5-4 W)

This week: vs. Delano (1/28), vs. Little Falls (1/31)

St. Cloud Cathedral returns to the top 10 rankings this week courtesy of a 5-4 victory against Totino-Grace last Saturday. Call that game a “play-in” for the final spot in the rankings, as Totino was certainly under consideration as well for its recent work. Leading scorer Will Hammer (16-17-33) scored four goals in that victory and is a major player on a young and inexperienced Crusaders’ team. The Crusaders got knocked out of the top 10 two weeks ago courtesy of a stretch in which it went 1-6-0 in seven games. But the final four of those defeats were on the road to teams ranked in the top five in Class 1A (East Grand Forks, Warroad, Hermantown and Breck). It’s tough to knock Eric Johnson’s team too much for that losing skid.

Others receiving votes:

Alexandria, Totino-Grace, Thief River Falls, St. Paul Academy, Virginia/Mt. Iron-Buhl, Delano, Bloomington Kennedy.

The post MHM Class A Top Ten 1/28/2014 appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

The big questions to come out of the week revolved around the Hilltoppers. How high to rank them? And how far to knock Breck?

The answers follow.

Class A rankings

Featured Image:
Scott Wasbotten, seen here in last year’s state tournament game against Breck, and the Hawks have supplanted the Mustangs atop our Class A rankings.
(Photo/Tim Kolehmainen, Breakdown Sports USA)

1. Hermantown (13-2-0)

Last week: vs. Bemidji (6-2 W)

This week: vs. Proctor (1/21), vs. White Bear Lake (1/24), at New Prague (1/25)

The four-time Class 1A runners up jump over two teams to get to the top of the rankings for the first time this season. Hermantown won its only game of the week, beating a tough Class 2A team (Bemidji) by a 6-2 margin with six different goal scorers and 24 saves from goaltender Adam Smith (5-2-0, 3.09, .882). That’s the Hawks’ depth on display and a big reason they vault to the front. Coach Bruce Plante’s team has only lost to a pair of Class 2A powers (6-1 to Wayzata on opening night and 4-1 to Eagan in the final of the South St. Paul Premier tournament) and have beaten all nine Class 1A teams they’ve faced by a combined 64-14 score. Ten different players have scored at least three goals, led by Nate Pionk (13-15-28) and 15 have at least five points, paced by Ryan Kero (12-16-28) and Pionk.

2. East Grand Forks (13-2-1)

Last week: at Roseau (8-3 W), at Bemidji (postponed), at Lake of the Woods (4-0 W)

This week: at Thief River Falls (1/21), vs. Grand Forks Red River (1/23), vs. Moorhead (1/25)

Class 1A’s best defensive team certainly had a strong case to move up into the No. 1 slot, but remained at No. 2 for now. The Green Wave actually allowed a handful of goals against Class 2A Roseau, but still easily beat the Rams by a larger margin than rival Warroad (8-3 vs. 6-4). It was just the second time the Green Wave have allowed more than two goals all season, as they average just 1.38 goals against. Junior Josh Weber (9-1-1, 1.48. ,907) seems to have taken hold of the starting job in goal, as he’s started the past six games. Coach Tyler Palmiscno is happy to have Dixon Bowen (6-2-8) back from injury, as well, as he’s scored five goals in the last three games. If the Green Wave’s offense begins to surge, they’ll be tough to beat.

3. Warroad (14-2-1)

Last week: at Thief River Falls (postponed), vs. Moorhead (4-3 W)

This week: at Crookston (1/21), at Duluth Marshall (1/24), at Duluth Denfeld (1/25)

Due to more weather cancellations, Warroad had just one game last week but it was a big victory, 4-3 over Class 2A Moorhead. The top line of Kobe Roth (32-31-63), Jared Bethune (24-39-63) and Kyle Sylvester (22-36-58) again led the charge as it has all season, scoring three times and adding nine total points. Roth scored the game-winner from Bethune and Sylvester midway through the third period and goaltender Adam Burke (14-2-1, 1.75, .911) had 29 saves to make the lead stand up. Hard-hitting defenseman Blayke Nelson (3-11-14) got into the fun, as well, scoring a goal and adding two assists. The Warriors have a big trip to Duluth coming this weekend.

4. Breck (11-4-1)

Last week: vs. St. Cloud Cathedral (6-1 W), vs. Duluth Marshall (3-2 L), vs. Minneapolis (10-2 W)

This week: vs. Totino-Grace (1/21), vs. Blake (1/23), vs. St. Thomas Academy (1/25)

The Mustangs’ recent trend of losing one, winning one finally caught up to them in the rankings this week with a 3-2 defeat to Duluth Marshall. Over its past eight games, Breck is 4-4-0 and has neither a winning nor losing streak greater than one game. With the other “big three” winning convincingly last week, coach Les Larson’s club falls all the way to No. 4 in the rankings, just ahead of the team it lost to. Sandwiched on either side of the loss to Marshall, though, were big wins over St. Cloud Cathedral and Minneapolis by a combined 16-3 score, showing Breck’s power. Mark Sharp (13-11-24) had three goals and three assists in the two games and leads the team in goals. Breck has a big week coming up with games against Class 1A rivals Totino-Grace and Blake and a showdown with former rival St. Thomas Academy.

5. Duluth Marshall (10-6-1)

Last week:  at Breck (3-2 W), at Roseville (3-2 L)

This week: vs. Hibbing/Chisholm (1/21), vs. Warroad (1/24), vs. Thief River Falls (1/25)

So, the question is whether Duluth Marshall is the potential state championship contender that just beat Breck or the middling team that has lost to St. Cloud Apollo and struggled over the holidays in its own tournament. The answer? Both. The Hilltoppers are certainly a state title caliber team, but one that had been searching for consistency in the wake of injuries. Now with the team mostly healthy, coach Brendan Flaherty is looking to plug all the pieces in the right places. It’s a big week coming for the Hilltoppers, who will be tested by Hibbing/Chisholm and visits from two of the northwest’s best in Warroad and Thief River Falls. They’ll need an effort like the second period at Breck, when Lane Eliason (6-6-12), Anthony Miller (6-4-10) and leading scorer Luke Pavelich (13-12-25) all scored to stake them to a 3-0 lead.

6. New Prague (12-2-2)

Last week: at Red Wing (10-1 W), vs. Northfield (6-3 W)

This week: at Albert Lea (1/21), vs. Chanhassen (1/24), vs. Hermantown (1/25)

Two more games, two more victories for a surging New Prague team last week. The Trojans have now won eight straight games since a 2-1 loss to Eagan in the semifinals of the South St. Paul Premier tournament. But last week, coach Chris Lonke’s team powered up its offense. The 10-spot against Red Wing on Tuesday was the team’s highest output of the season and its 16 goals was the most over a two-game span. Most encouraging, the goals came from multiple sources. Lucas Binger (7-4-11), Alex Gregor (13-11-24) and Augie Isaacson (14-20-34) scored two goals each against Northfield and Gregor and Seth Kriha (7-24-31) followed with a pair of goals against the Wingers. In all, eight different Trojans scored in the two games.

7. Mankato West (14-2-0)

Last week: vs. Northfield (8-2 W)

This week: at Mankato East (1/21), at Austin (1/23), vs. Owatonna (1/25)

Northfield had a week to forget, as the Raiders fell big to both No. 6 New Prague and in an 8-2 loss at No. 7 Mankato West last Saturday. The Scarlets finally got their offense on track as Nick Campbell (15-15-30), Zach Erickson (5-2-7) and Max Mettler (9-20-29) each had two goals while leading scorer Derek Frentz (15-26-41) added three assists. It was the first time since the holidays that the Scarlets had exploded for a big offensive night. In the previous four games, they’d had just nine goals and went 2-2-0.

8. Luverne (17-0-1)

Last week: vs. Redwood Valley (16-0 W)

This week: at Morris/Benson Area (1/25)

Ouch. Luverne returned to Southwest Conference play last week and drilled Redwood Valley, 16-0. The “youngster line” with eighth-grader Jaxon Nelson (24-23-47) and freshman Chaz Smedsrud (27-33-60) came up big as both players scored four goals each, while crafty defenseman Toby Sengvongxay (10-19-29) and senior Gunnar Olson (18-18-36) had two each. Luverne has built a powerhouse in the southwest corner of the state that seems a step above its conference this winter. We may see similar scores in the coming weeks until the playoffs begin.

9. Orono (12-5-0)

Last week: vs. Holy Family Catholic (8-2 L), vs. Delano (3-2 W), vs. Hopkins (5-4 W)

This week: vs. Mound-Westonka (1/21), at Hutchinson (1/25)

Despite a loss to Class 2A Holy Family Catholic to start last week, Orono retains its No. 9 spot in the rankings. The Spartans responded to that loss — their first since a 5-3 loss to Rogers on Dec. 26 — with a pair of impressive one-goal victories over Delano (3-2) and Class 2A Hopkins (5-4). Joey Luedtke (7-15-22) scored with 20 seconds left to give Orono the tight win over Section 2A rival Delano, then Sam Challgren (5-12-17) scored twice against Hopkins and Luedtke had four points. Orono isn’t a high-scoring team, but the Spartans play tight defense in front of goaltender Jonathon Flakne (11-4-0, 1.94, .917).

10. Alexandria (11-3-2)

Last week: at St. Cloud Apollo (3-1 W), vs. River Lakes (4-1 W), at Brainerd (2-2 T)

This week: vs. Sartell-St. Stephen (1/21), at Bemidji (1/25)

Alexandria returns to the rankings this week with a nice 2-0-1 showing, beating St. Cloud Apollo and River Lakes and tying a tough Class 2A Brainerd team. Defense led the way, as the Cardinals allowed just four goals in the three games and are averaging just 2.06 goals per game. Senior goaltender Sam Goetsch (10-3-2, 2.06, .912) has been stellar, stopping 67 of 71 shots in the three games, while Ryan Marciniak (9-6-15) scored twice to improve his team-leading totals.

Others receiving votes:

DelanoTotino-Grace, Thief River Falls, Mahtomedi, St. Paul Academy, Chisago Lakes, Virginia/Mt. Iron-Buhl, St. Cloud Cathedral

The post MHM Class A Top Ten 1/21/14 appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

Featured Image:
New Prague’s Austin Kilian celebrates a Trojan goal.
(Photo/Tim Kolehmainen)

The deeper we go into the high school hockey season, the more stable the top 10 in Class 1A has become. As they have much of the winter, the top four remained frozen in those spots, led by top-ranked Breck. The Mustangs were idle last week, but the three squads immediately behind (East Grand Forks, Hermantown and Warroad) went a combined 5-0-0 in relatively easy fashion.

Coming out of the holiday season, the biggest gift was received by New Prague, which moved all the way up to the No. 5 spot after defeating Section 1A rival Mankato West.

Class A rankings

1. Breck (8-2-1)

Last week: idle

This week: vs. Minneapolis (1/7), at St. Paul Academy (1/9), at Moorhead (1/11)

Breck remained atop the rankings while idle last week. The Mustangs will be happy to get back to a busy week of three games after nothing but practices under coach Les Larson since the holidays. As if Breck needed much fine-tuning. The last three Class 1A opponents on its schedule (East Grand Forks, Thief River Falls and Rochester Lourdes) have lost by a combined 27-0 score.  Breck’s only two losses came over the holidays against Class 2A powers Edina and Duluth East. It will be tough to knock off the Mustangs, as they are disciplined and tough under Larson — as is usually the case. Senior Henry Johnson (7-2-1, 2.25, .914) is strong in goal and gives the team plenty of confidence.

2. East Grand Forks (10-2-1)

Last week: vs. St. Cloud Cathedral (3-1 W)

This week: at Grand Forks Central (1/11)

At just 1.38 goals per game against, East Grand Forks remains one of the stingiest Class 1A teams. That form held last week in a single game against St. Cloud Cathedral, as the Green Wave held the top-10 ranked Crusaders to just 13 shots on goal and a single goal. The defensive corps is experienced and talented from top to bottom, something no other Class 1A team can boast. It starts with the all-around game of Colton Poolman, the fleet skating of Tye Ausmus, the ruggedness of Eddie Eades and on down the line. There are no weak spots in the Green Wave’s defensive zone. If coach Tyler Palmiscno gets offensive contributions from his forwards, East Grand Forks will be tough to beat.

3. Hermantown (10-2-0)

Last week: at Duluth Marshall (6-2 W), at International Falls (10-0 W)

This week: at Grand Rapids (1/7), vs. St. Cloud Cathedral (1/10)

Hermantown picked up a couple of big victories for section seeding, easily defeating chief rival Duluth Marshall and perennial contender International Falls by a combined 16-2 score. The Hawks are new to Section 7A, but they have stamped themselves as the early favorite. Marshall is the defending section champion. Nate Pionk (11-13-24) and Ryan Kero (11-12-23) continue to lead the way offensively, although senior Scott Wasbotten (8-11-19) had seven points in the two victories last week and is coming on. Hermantown coach Bruce Plante and his Hawks could easily find themselves in a fifth straight Class 1A state championship game at season’s end.

4. Warroad (11-2-1)

Last week: vs. St. Cloud Tech (8-1 W), vs. St. Cloud Cathedral (3-0 W)

This week: at Roseau (1/9), vs. Crookston (1/11)

The best line in Class 1A — and potentially the entire state — continues to roll along for Warroad. Juniors Jared Bethune (21-32-53) and Kobe Roth (24-28-52) and senior Kyle Sylvester (18-30-48) are the top three scorers in the state entering the week. Yes, among ALL players. They’ve led the Warriors on an eight-game unbeaten streak (7-0-1) and will be counted to continue that prowess. Because beyond the big three, there isn’t much scoring going on in Warroad. They’ve combined for 63 of the team’s 82 goals this season. So far that top-heavy nature hasn’t hurt the Warriors, but it could. The biannual Roseau-Warroad rivalry kicks off this week, a game that doesn’t matter in the section seeding anymore, but features plenty of bragging rights.

5. New Prague (8-2-2)

Last week: at Shakopee (4-3 W), at Mankato West (2-1 W)

This week: vs. Holy Angels (1/7), at Chaska (1/11)

The Trojans made the biggest jump in the rankings this week after defeating the previously fifth-ranked Mankato West Scarlets, 2-1. Last week, New Prague was hovering on the edge of the rankings in the No. 9 spot. Now, it’s settled in quite nicely behind the big four — and in the driver’s seat in the Section 1A seeding race for now. Trailing 1-0 midway through the second period against West, Austin Kilian (11-7-18) tied the score and Casey Busch (4-7-11) netted the game winner with just 30 seconds remaining. The Trojans won’t put up big goal totals (Kilian is the only player with more than eight), but they are a tight-checking and tough team.

6. Mankato West (11-2-0)

Last week: vs. New Prague (2-1 L)

This week: vs. Rochester Lourdes (1/7), at Rochester Mayo (1/9), at Rochester Century (1/11)

West dropped a spot in the rankings after losing its only game of the week to Section 1A rival New Prague, 2-1 on a goal with 30 seconds remaining. The Scarlets’ vaunted offense fell short against the Trojans, but on average scores 6.15 goals per game. A dozen players have at least three goals already, paced by Derek Frentz (13-21-34) and Nick Campbell (12-13-25). But there are questions about the power of West’s schedule, which could hurt them in the rankings. This week, coach Curtis Doell leads his team against a gauntlet of Rochester programs: Lourdes on Tuesday, Mayo on Thursday and Century on Saturday.

7. Duluth Marshall (7-5-1)

Last week: vs. Hermantown (6-2 L), at Totino-Grace (3-2 W)

This week: at Superior, WI (1/9), vs. St. Paul Academy (1/11)

No doubts exist about the Hilltoppers’ schedule, although they’ve been up-and-down while trying to get everyone back from injuries. The five losses are all forgivable, as they’ve come against the likes of St. Thomas Academy, Benilde-St. Margaret’s, Hermantown, Superior (WI) and a bit of a head-scratcher to St. Cloud Apollo way back in November. A 6-2 loss to Hermantown last week leaves little doubt that the Hawks are the current favorite in Section 7A, but Marshall won’t give up the crown easily. Luke Pavelich (11-8-19) leads the young team in scoring.

8. Luverne (14-0-1)

Last week: vs. Marshall (3-0 W), vs. Dodge County (4-3 W)

This week: at Fairmont (1/7), vs. Willmar (1/11)

All they do is win. And yet the Cardinals still are looking for respect in most state rankings. We’ve bumped them up one more spot to No. 8 on the heels of another two close victories last week, beating rival Marshall in a shutout and then edging Dodge County by a single goal. Not impressive necessarily, but still wins to keep Luverne is the only undefeated team in the state. It likely will be tough to compare Luverne to the other ranked teams the rest of the way, as they get into the meat of their weaker conference schedule. Freshman Chaz Smedsrud (21-26-47) and eighth-grader Jaxon Nelson (18-21-39) continue to pace the offense, but Luverne is at least two lines deep.

9. Orono (8-4-0)

Last week: idle

This week: vs. Delano (1/7), at Bloomington Kennedy (1/9), at Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato (1/11)

Orono was also idle last week, which could be the reason for a one-spot drop in the rankings. Out of sight, out of mind? That shouldn’t be the case for the Spartans, who posted two shutouts in their previous two games and have a good one-goal loss to Hermantown already on their resume. Orono doesn’t have the offensive firepower of some of the other top teams — Jacob Flemmer (8-5-13) leads the Spartans in both goals and points — but they are tight defensively. Goaltender Jonathan Flakne (7-3-0, 1.20, .944) also has some of the best numbers on the state and will be recognized should he keep up his pace.

10. St. Cloud Cathedral (9-4-0)

Last week: at East Grand Forks (3-1 L), at Warroad (3-0 L)

This week: at Hermantown (1/10)

Back to back losses up north to East Grand Forks and Warroad nearly knocked the Crusaders from the rankings. But then again, Cathedral was not favored in either one, so a pair of tight losses certainly is respectable. Coach Eric Johnson continues to have his young team play it close to the vest, scoring just 3.46 goals per game but allowing only 1.92. Veteran Will Hammer (7-14-21) leads the team in points, while Brady Johnston (7-2-9) is the top goal scorer. As the young Crusaders figure out the varsity game — and if they aren’t intimidated by the January schedule — they could be very dangerous come playoff time.

Others receiving votes:

Delano, Alexandria, Totino-Grace, Thief River Falls, Mahtomedi, St. Paul Academy, Chisago Lakes

The post MHM Boys A Top Ten 1/6/2014 appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.