Otto Leaves His Mark in Bemidji and the NHL

Heather Rule chronicles his career from Elk River to the NHL via Bemidj State.

Article is from our February Hockey Day Minnesota special print/digital issue.

The post Joel Otto: Gentle Giant appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

 Greyhounds punch ticket to St. Paul with 5-4 OT win over Elks

[See image gallery at minnesotahockeymag.com]

The post Section 7AA Gallery: Elk River vs. Duluth East appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

Duluth East rallies for OT win in thrilling Section 7AA final

By Matt Johnson – Special to Minnesota Hockey Magazine.com

DULUTH – In a game that featured clanked pipes, pucks cleared off the goal-line and plenty of sprawling saves by both goaltenders , it only made sense that the Section 7AA title game would come down to a double-overtime goal.

That’s when Duluth East forward Garret Worth proved his worth to the Greyhounds. The ninth-grader’s ninth tally of the season at 1:49 of the second overtime propelled Duluth East to a come-from-behind, 5-4 win over top-seed Elk River at Amsoil Arena in Duluth.

The victory was even more impressive considering Duluth East (14-10-4) fought back from a 3-0 deficit after one period to make their seventh straight trip to the State Tournament and 22^nd appearance overall.

Elk River started fast behind forward Jacob Jaremko, who scored his 24^th goal of the second just 48 seconds into the opening period from Reggie Lutz and Matt Kiersted for a 1-0 advantage.

The Elks went on to add Jax Murray’s 17^th tally of the year at 7:23 from Benton Maass and Peter Jones before Jaremko added his second goal of the evening at 15:52 on helpers from Lutz and Kiersted for a 3-0 Elk River bulge after one.

“We told our guys they were playing just fine” said Duluth East coach Mike Randolph of his first intermission locker room talk. “We knew we weren’t going to shut them out, so we emphasized just sticking to our systems and playing our game.”

The Greyhounds responded in the second period, taking advantage of a five-minute major to score twice in a span of 1:45 and cut the deficit to 3-2.

Ash Altmann got the scoring started for Duluth East, tallying on a nifty forward-to-backhand move for his 10^th goal of the season on assists from Luke Dow and Shay Donovan to make it a 3-1 contest. Nick Altmann then brought the Greyhounds to within 3-2 on a wrist shot that deflected off Elk River goal tender Ben Meyers and underneath the crossbar for his 14^th goal of the year at 7:54.

Duluth East evened matters 3-3 when Nick Funk put home a rebound for his third tally of the year at 13:03 before Elk River struck back with Reggie Lutz’s 40^th goal of the season at 14:42, allowing the Elks to take a 4-3 lead into the second intermission.

The Greyhounds again rallied however, this time getting the tying goal when Ryan Peterson took a puck off the near-side boards before lifting a shot into the upper-right corner for his eighth tally of the year at 12:44 of the third, sending the game to overtime knotted 4-4.

Following a scoreless first overtime, the Greyhounds finally got the game-winner from Worth, who poked home a feed from Nathaniel Benson to send Duluth East back to the State Tournament.

“I saw (Benson) send it towards the goal, so I just went to the net,” said Worth. “I wasn’t sure if it went in, but I saw the red light and everybody started celebrating, so that’s when I knew I had scored. It was an incredible feeling.”

Gunnar Howg picked up the win in goal for Duluth East, stopping 25 of 29 shots for the game.

Meyers meanwhile stopped 27 of 32 shots for Elk River, which finishes the season 22-5-1.

The post Hounds stun Elks appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

1. Lakeville North (0-0) The Panthers have yet to play a game although they unseat the Edina Hornets for the number one slot out of the shoot.  They have their sights set on a return trip to the Minnesota State High School hockey tournament in March and know there is plenty of work to do between now and then.  The Panthers are known as one of the most exciting teams in High School hockey and posted a 25-5-1 record last season.  At one point North ripped off a 19 game (18-0-1) unbeaten streak last year.  There is plenty to look forward to with the Panthers who return their top two lines and both can score.  Leading the way is the Poehling trio, made up of seniors Jack and Nick along with sophomore Ryan.  Henry Enebak and Max Johnson anchor the second line and combined for (25g-33a-58pts) last year.   Add in one of the best one-two punches on the blue line with a pair of D1 defensemen in Jack Sadek and Jack McNeely and the Panthers have every reason to believe they can not only return to St. Paul and the State Tournament but win their first ever Class AA title.  Goaltending will be key and former Shattuck St. Mary’s product Ryan Edquist returns to his roots in Lakeville to hold down the fort in the blue paint for the Panthers.  The University of Minnesota goaltending recruit could be key to the Panthers potential success this year.

2.  Edina (1-0-1)  The two-time defending champion Edina Hornets opened the season with an 11-0 thumping of the Holy Family Catholic Fire last week at the Cable 12 Turkey Trot.  Garrett Wait erupted with 6 assists and Matt Masterman had 4 goals in the shellacking.  Dylan Malmquist delivered 2 goals and 2 assists with Casey Dornbach adding a hat trick and and assist in the effort.  The offensive output, coupled with the defensive play illustrated that the Hornets have plenty of depth to bid for their third straight state title.  For now, key leadership losses from last year’s team to graduation pushes Edina down to the #2 slot slot in the MNHockeyMag rankings.  Edina has plenty of depth to lean on from a deep and talented youth program to fill any void that may have been left.  The State Title once again runs through Edina and someone will have to prove they can beat the Hornets on the last day of the season.  On paper to open the season, the Lakeville North Panthers are just a little better.  Edina has won a record 12 state titles in 36 appearances which is a staggering conversion rate.  Their attempt at a three-peat would be the first time since Bloomington Jefferson’s glory teams of 1992-1994 that impressive feat.

3.  Wayata (1-0-1)  A 4-1 win over cross-town rival Maple Grove and a 3-3 tie that wound up as a shootout loss to Edina (recorded in the books as an official tie), the Trojans always have a chance to win based on their defensive play and skill.  Whether blocking shots, staying disciplined in the defensive zone, benefitting from stellar goaltending, or staying on the puck in the offensive zone, coach Pat O’Leary’s teams are difficult to play against and this year’s club will be no different.  Junior goaltender Alex Schilling is primed to take over the number one chore in goal for the Trojans and senior defenseman Alex Stevens has help with sophomore Hank Sorenson holding down the fort.  Junior Max Zimmer (10g-23a-33pts) led the team in points last year and the slick skating offensive talent is back to take on that offensive responsibility again.  Playing in the deep Lake Conference and owning a tough schedule this year will take the Trojans a long way in being a high quality playoff team this year.

4.  Hill-Murray (1-0)  An opening night 3-2 win over the Burnsville Blaze last Saturday was a good start for the Hill-Murray Pioneers.  The strength of the Pioneers is defensively and when that proves out, it means a successful season for coach Bill Lechner’s team.  The Pioneers return their top four defensemen to the table and have depth in goaltending which will have a spirited competition. Senior Sean Wendlandt was the back up to Sam Ilgen last year and will have a healthy battle with sophomore Jake Begley for playing time.  Four year varsity letter-winner Zach Mills will lead the team offensively and he is joined by freshman brother Dylan.  Mikey Anderson is just a freshman, yet he has committed to Scott Sandelin’s UMD Bulldogs to play college hockey.  He moves the puck, has physical strength beyond his years and will be relied upon at a young age to be a key to his team’s success.  The Pioneers welcome in Kyler Yeo, son of Wild coach Mike Yeo, to the lineup and the young man has size, speed, and a three-zoned responsible game.   Never underestimate the Pioneers, in the end-they are always in the mix.

5.  Duluth East (0-0) Yes, the Hounds are the six-time defending Section 7AA champion and yes, a trip to St. Paul goes through Duluth East again this year and most likely will be in the form of a date in the section final at Amsoil Arena in the end of February.  Losses to blue line mainstays Phil Beaulieu and Alex Trapp to graduation will need to be filled but Mike Randolph lost just two other players from his roster last year.  As his teams age and grow, so do their results.  This team is prepared to be elite and is not uncomfortable in playing that role.  Nick Altmann is expected to have another solid offensive year coming off a 20-goal campaign (20g-26a-46pts).  The core of this team is represented in a junior class that two-years ago lost to Edina in the Bantam AA state championship.  Goalie Gunnar Howg (20-7-1, 1.86, .913) is fresh of a 20-win seasons and ready to anchor his team again in goal. Give Randolph talent, and he will make something of it.

6.  Elk River/Zimmerman (0-0)  All the elements are in place for the Elk River/Zimmerman Elks to unseat the Duluth East Greyhounds for the Section 7AA tittle for the first time in 7 season.  The last team to represent the section were the Grand Rapids Thunderhawks back in the day of Patrick White.  That feels like a millennium ago, and the Elks bring on one of the state’s best forwards in Jake Jaremko.  He has been tossed around as a Mr. Hockey Finalist in the preseason and for good reason.  His speed, offensive skills and leadership will be key in the Eks surge this year.  Reggie Lutz (12g-18a-30pts) and Ben Johnson (10g-5a-15pts) return to compliment Jaremko with plenty of depth and help throughout the lineup.  Defenseman Matt Kierstad will provide valuable leadership and experience to the back end with a pair of JV goalies -Joey Grillo and Chase Gauthier – competing for playing time.  The Elks were one goal away in their 3-2 section final loss to the Hounds in making their first trip to the dance since 2005.  This year, they may have enough to find that one goal, maybe two, to be the difference.

7.  St. Thomas Academy (0-0)  There is plenty to look forward to at St. Thomas Academy this year and in their second season at the Class AA, the Cadets are positioned to make another run to the State Tournament.  Nine of their top eleven leading scorers return with speedster Christiano Versich (29g-37a-66pts) leading the way.  The hard driving Peter Tufto (17g-28a-45pts) will be expected to pick up more offensive responsibility and he will be up for the challenge.  Senior Alex Broetzman (25g-24a-49pts) will be receiving plenty of minutes and looked upon to provide leadership, of which the Cadets are never in short supply.  Goalie Matt Snow won 10 games last year and earned an Elite League spot for his efforts while working split duty with Charlie Hallett.  The Cadets will have little trouble on the offensive end this year and have four returning defensemen on their roster including Seamus Donohue who will be heading off to the Air Force Academy to play is college hockey after this year.  The Cadets, as usual, will be a difficult team to play each night and every team in the league is on notice that they will have to skate and be ready for a high tempo hockey game with St. Thomas Academy.

8. Benilde-St. Margaret’s (0-0)  The Red Knights may very well be worthy of a top three ranking by the time the year comes to a close.  As the season opens, Ken Pauly’s Red Knights land in the eighth slot with plenty of offensive depth.  Mark Kaske is expected to have have a memorable season.  Chase Jungels, Carter Roo, and Blake transfer Cade Gleekel add to the offensive fire power with veterans such as Will Duda and Zach Risteau providing the Red Knights offensive depth that will be a challenge for many teams on a nightly basis.  Defenseman Ben Newhouse returns for what should be a highly productive season as the Union College commit will be expected to lead the defensive corps that is made up of juniors Nick Austin, Peter Heimbold, and senior Jack Lawton.  Goalies Jalen Long and Ryan Bischel are both back and combined for 15 wins last year in backstopping their team to the Section 6AA Final where they lost to Eden Prairie 3-2.  The Red Knights enter the Metro West and full-time conference play after playing two seasons of independent hockey with their run and gun style looking to advance past the section final is a legitimate reality for this hockey club, although it will be difficult.

9.  Eden Prairie (0-0) The defending Section 6AA champions saw a pair of Mr. Hockey Finalists (Luc Snuggerud and Steven Spinner) graduate and they will indeed leave a gaping hole in this team from a leadership, offensive and defensive perspective.  However, three state tournament tested defensemen return in Brady Schoo, Marc Sullivan, and Andy Aguilar to lead Lee Smith’s back end.  Michael Graham maintains a dynamic skill set that includes a power and finesse game.  He is just a junior yet his veteran presence will be leaned on this year.  Other key contributors are Riley Argetsinger who is the prototypical power forward for high school hockey, Cole Lawrence, another big body that will be tough to contain on the offensive end of things.  Much has been said about the arrival of Casey Mittlestadt who had an impressive High School Elite League.  He will be challenged in the rugged tight checking of the Lake Conference as the season wears on yet has the ability to be a difference maker and Smith raves about the young talent and his offensive skill blended with a power game.  The Eagles will have a question mark in goal and look to answer that quickly this year.  If they can, they will be in business and the mix again this year.

10.  Cretin-Derham Hall (0-0) The Raiders enter the top ten returning 13 players, most of them impact performers last season.  They have athletes and many perform in multiple sports and have a rounded competitiveness to their game.  The Raiders are always a physically strong team and they have plenty of skill this year.  Nick Reis led the team in goals (25g-21a-46pts) and points last year and will be looked to again.  Brett Huebner will be playing D1 baseball next year and dished out 27 assists last year (9g-27-36pts) to finish second on the team in scoring.  Joe Dekker, Max Jackson, Cal Crawford, and Aitor Flood all play other sports with the Raiders boasting a number of Dvision I athletes on the roster in those sports.  Jim O’Neil’s team posted a 17-7-3 record last year and has the ability to top the 20 win mark this year.

Others receiving consideration:  Stillwater, Prior Lake, Hopkins, Centennial, Moorhead, Farmington

The post MHM Boys Class AA Top 10 appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

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DULUTH—To say that the ending to Duluth East and Elk River’s Section 7AA final at AMSOIL Arena was exciting is an understatement to say the least.

Just as it seemed like the Elks were on their way to the state tournament for the first time since 2005, Duluth East’s Alex Spencer roofed a shot with 2:10 left to tie the game 2-2 and send it to overtime.

Nick Altmann made sure his team’s late surge was not had in vain as he chipped a puck through Elk River goaltender Mac Berglove’s five hole just over two minutes into extra time to get his team to its sixth straight state tournament.

Duluth East has now reached the Minnesota State Boys Hockey Tournament 21 times since 1958.

“This means a whole lot, it hasn’t really sunk in yet,” said head coach Mike Randolph. “It just shows the character of these kids and how far they’ve come. They just have no quit in them. The bench never got down, we struggled for two periods and came out in the third and played great.”

The first period saw mostly conservative play from both sides, with neither team looking to take too big of a risk early.

The second period, however, was a different story.

Elk River split the game wide open with an early goal by Reggie Lutz as he potted a rebound that ricocheted wide off of a Chase Springman shot from the opposite circle. That goal not only served to get Elk River on the board, but also woke up a reserved Greyhounds offense.

After plenty of quality chances by the Duluth East, a shot finally made its way between the pipes for the Greyhounds with less than five minutes to go in period. Berglove made a couple of sprawling saves but could not control the puck and Duluth East’s Bryton Lutzka converted a second rebound to knot the game at 1-1.

The Elks were not prepared to go into the locker room at period’s end without the lead however. It only took Jake Jaremko, the Greyhound’s leading postseason scorer, 14 seconds to snipe a shot from the slot over the shoulder of Duluth East’s Gunnar Howg to regain the one-goal lead.

The third period saw plenty of chances for the Greyhounds, including a couple of quality shots on an odd man rush by Nick Altmann and Jack Kolar, but Elk River’s Berglove stood strong between the pipes.

“Our last two games have given us some confidence that we can score against any goalie because those kids were really good too,” said Randolph. “We had to find a way to beat him. I don’t know where it went, and I don’t care where it went. I’m just glad it went in.”

The post Hounds Stun Elks in Overtime appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

1.  Edina Hornets (20-4-1, 7-0-1)

Last Week:  vs Minnetonka (W 3-0), vs Eden Prairie (W 5-3)
This Week:  vs opponent to be named first round bye (2/22) Section 2AA semi-final

The Hornets earned the #1 seed in the Section 2AA and are playing some terrific two-way hockey.  Edina is in State Tournament form, as they always are this time of the year.  This group posted another 20 win season against just four losses.  Consider Edina’s run through the Lake Conference that was near perfect (7-0-1) as a statement to where they are at this point of the season.  Mr. Hockey candidate Tyler Nanne is playing a “next level” brand hockey that would be expected of his candidacy.   Miguel Fidler will end up with a solid post-secondary hockey playing options as he is the best player on the ice most nights.   Edina’s 46 goals against are second fewest in Class AA hockey setting Edina up for what could be a deep run into March.  The Hornets were a sizzling 13-3-1 against teams that were ranked in the top ten of the MHM at some point this season further stating they take on all comers and have been impressive and why they are number one to close out the regular season.

2.  Lakeville North Panthers (20-4-1, 15-2-0)

Last Week: vs Prior Lake (L 1-0)
This Week:  vs Dodge County (2/20) Section 1AA Quarterfinals

The Panthers closed the season with a tough 1-0 loss to the Prior Lake Lakers.  They will have to wait 11 days to avenge that loss when they open the Section 1AA playoffs this Thursday against the Dodge County Wildcats.  As the number one seed, the Panthers are the favorites to advance to the State Tournament however, Farmington or Lakeville South will be difficult obstacles for the Panthers.  Congratulations are in store for the Poehling brothers, Jack, Nick, and Ryan for committing to St. Cloud State this past week.  The Panthers are a deep team and it is fair to say the Poehling trio are the heart and soul of the Panthers.  Defensively, the team allowed just 48 goals against this season that tied them for fifth among Class AA teams this season.  The Panthers won the South Suburban Conference title this year and were ranked in the top spot of the MHM rankings three weeks in a row before falling to the second slot this week.  The Panthers were 8-2-1 against teams ranked in the MHM top ten at some point this season.

3.  Hill-Murray Pioneers (22-3-0, 12-1-0)

Last Week:  vs Tartan (W 9-2), vs Moorhead (W 6-3)
This Week:  vs Irondale (2/22) Section 4AA Quarterfinal

Like the Edina Hornets, the Pioneers are a team that is always there in the end and here they are again.  Each year, Bill Lechner’s teams graduate a number of talented seniors and the wonder of the hockey world is how in the world are the Pioneers going to duplicate last season’s effort.  That question is answered each year and his team is poised to make a steady run.  Mr. Hockey finalist Mitch Slattery has a balanced group of underclassmen that will provide difficulties for the Section 4AA.  The Pioneers shared the conference title this year with St. Thomas Academy and were an impressive 8-3-0 against teams that have been ranked at some point in the MHM top ten this year.

4.  Wayzata Trojans (19-5-1, 6-1-1)

Last Week:  vs Totino Grace (W 9-0), vs Hopkins (W 4-1)
This Week:  vs Robbinsdale Cooper (2/20) Section 6AA Quarterfinal

The Trojans have stepped out to the front of the pack in the Section 6AA and earned the top seed.  They are in good position to make their second straight State Tournament bid and lost just once in their last ten games (8-1-1) .  Wayzata enters the playoffs on a three game winning streak that includes outscoring their opponents 19-1.  They have been ridiculous defensively leading the Class AA teams in goals against with just 32 against in 25 games.  The next closest team is Eagan with 45.  Goaltending and special teams are what is needed to be successful at a championship level.  The Trojans have been solid against top ten teams posting a 7-5-1 record.  That is the fewest wins among the teams ahead of them and the most losses which slates them in the fourth position.

5.  Blaine Bengals (20-4-1, 16-1-0)

Last Week:  vs Andover (W 4-0), vs Maple Grove (W 5-1)
This Week:  vs Coon Rapids (2/22) Section 5AA Quarterfinal

The Blaine Bengals surged their way to another Northwest Suburban Conference Championship and a top seed in the Section 5AA.   They also boast a Mr. Hockey finalist in Tyler Cline and have a veteran crew up front and on the blue line.  Their 137 goals in 25 games is impressive and is tied for second with Hill-Murray among Class AA teams.  Their 58 goals against is stingy and often overlooked.  They should line up to be a force in the playoffs and considered a State Title contender with 15 seniors on the roster.  The Bengals own a 3-4-1 record against MHM top ten teams this season, a number that needs to be placed higher.

6.  Burnsville Blaze (18-6-1, 14-3-0)

Last Week: vs Bloomington Kennedy (W 5-3), vs Lakeville South (W 6-1)
This Week:  vs Shakopee (2/20) Section 2AA Quarterfinal

The Blaze have been a great story this season and are on the short list of Section 2AA title contenders this season.  A 3-2 overtime loss to Bloomington Jefferson a week ago stopped their momentum at least for the moment.  The Blaze bounced back with a nice wins over a tough Bloomington Kennedy team and Lakeville South to finish the season strong.  They were 6-5-1 against teams ranked in the top ten of the MHM this season.  The Blaze have the talent and patience positionally to go deep in the playoffs and succeed in the section playoffs.

7.  White Bear Lake Bears (18-6-1, 14-3-1)

Last Week:  vs Forest Lake (L 3-2), vs Cretin-Derham Hall (W 4-2)
This Week:  vs North High School (2/22) Section 4AA Quarterfinals

Winners of the Suburban East Conference title, The White Bear Lake Bears have the Class AA’s leading goal scorer in Jake Wahlin (39g-31a-70pts) and are on a (8-1-0) run over their last 9 games recovering from a 3 game losing skid in the middle of January.  With 113 goals for and just 64 against, the Bears bring a nice mix to the table and can not be ruled out for a section title.  They posted a 3-4-1 record against teams that have been ranked in MHM top ten rankings this season including a heart-breaking 5-4 overtime loss to the Hill-Murray Pioneers.

8.  Elk River/Zimmerman Elks  (18-6-0, 14-3-0)

Last Week:  vs Anoka (W 4-2), vs Champlin Park (W 6-0), vs Robbinsdale Armstrong (W 6-1)
This Week: vs Cloquet-Esko-Carlton (2/18) Section 7AA Quarterfinals

The Elks stumbled for a bit after they had a roster shake up and have righted the ship to the tune of winning four straight and solved a minor goal scoring issue by outscoring their opponents 19-4 in those four game.  They have a Brimsek Award finalist in goal with Mac Berglove and a deep defensive corps that defends in their own zone well.  With 108 goals for and only 58 given up, the Elks are a big time Section 7AA contender.  They are 4-4 against MHM top ten teams this season including a 3-2 win over top seeded Duluth East on December 10th.  Much has changed over that time and with what can be argued the deepest section in the state, the 7AA title is up for grabs this year.

9.  Duluth East Greyhounds (18-6-1)

Last Week:  vs Minnetonka (W 4-2), vs Superior (W 7-0) vs Tartan (W 6-3)
This Week:  vs St. Francis (2/18) Section 7AA Quarterfinals

Talk about cardiac kids, the Hounds have played in 5 overtime games this season posting a 3-1-1 record in those contests.  They have a 6-2 record against Section 7AA teams this year and are 5-4-0 against top ten MHM teams.  The Hounds have a game changing power play and teams can not put them on it as the Hounds execute at 42% efficiency if they plan on being successful.   29 of their 89 goals have been scored on the power play and they are very tight defensively allowing just 50 goals agains this season.  Duluth East kills off 90% of the penalties whistled agains them this year which is impressive as well.

10 Forest Lake Rangers (15-6-4, 11-3-4)

Last Week:  vs White Bear Lake (W 3-2),  vs Hastings (W 7-2)
This Week:  vs Grand Rapids (2/18) Section 7AA Quarterfinals

A hearty welcome to the Forest Lake Rangers for earning a spot in this week’s MHM top ten.  They close it out in style as this marks the final regular season rankings.  A win over White Bear Lake in the final week helped propel the Rangers in the top ten for the first time this season.  They posted a 4-3 record in Section 7AA games and are four game winning streak heading into the post season with their game against the Grand Rapids Thunderhawks.  The Rangers posted a 2-3-2 record against MHM Top Ten teams this season.

Others Receiving Votes:  Eastview, Andover, Grand Rapids, Cretin-Derham Hall, St. Thomas Academy, Holy Family Catholic, Eagan, Farmington,  Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Benilde-St. Margaret’s

The post MHM Class AA Top Ten (Final) appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

1.  Lakeville North Panthers (20-3-1, 15-1-0)

Last Week:  vs Duluth East (W 3-2 ot), vs Eagan (W 4-3)
This Week:  at Prior Lake (2/11)

The Panthers continue their winning ways as they eked one out against the Duluth East Greyhounds in overtime.  They closed out the week with a 4-3 victory over the Eagan Wildcats that improved the Panther conference record to 15-1-0 and is good for the conference title.  They have one game left against Prior Lake and if North can pick up the win, they would close out the regular season with a 19-0-1 run.  Currently, the Panthers have won 13 in a row since their tie with the Blaine Bengals on December 27th.  Wins over Duluth East, Burnsville (2), Eastview, Eden Prairie, Hill-Murray, Eagan (2) and Bloomington Jefferson (2) are enough to dispel the difficulty of schedule argument that is floating around and with their last loss coming on December 7th, to St. Thomas Academy, the Panthers have earned the top spot for the third straight week.

2.  Edina Hornets (18-4-1, 5-0-1)

Last Week:  vs Wayzata (W 3-1), vs Hopkins (W 4-0)
This Week:  at Minnetonka (2/13), at Eden Prairie (2/15)

The Hornets are in the midst of a seven game unbeaten streak (6-0-1) and have been getting it done in the Lake Conference.  A huge win over Wayzata gave the Hornets sole possession of first place with two games remaining.  They were in post season form in a well played game as they took down Hopkins 4-0.  The Hornets close it out with a pair of road games this week.  The first tilt is at the difficult to play Pagel Activity Center against the Minnetonka Skippers and  the season finale is against the Eden Prairie Eagles on Saturday at the EP Community Center.  Contributions have been felt from all three lines and that will be key to a potential State Tournament run.  This team is playing very well right now and things are coming together as the seniors are playing bigger an the underclassmen are stepping up the effort.  Edina’s goaltending has been rock solid as Andrew Rohkohl has not allowed more than one goal against in a game since their 3-3 tie with Wayzata and that is a span of six straight games.

3.  Hill-Murray Pioneers (20-3-0, 11-1-0)

Last Week:  vs Blaine (W 4-3), vs Richfield (W 13-1), vs Simley (W 7-1)
This Week:  at Tartan (2/13), vs Moorhead (2/15)

The Pioneers have won 11 of their last 12 games.  The loss came to St. Thomas Academy on January 23rd. In that span, Hill-Murray has wins over four ranked opponents  that include Wayzata (3-2), Edina (6-1), White Bear Lake (6-5 ot), and Blaine (4-3).  It certainly helps improve their case at the number three position.  The Pinoneers do not top Edina in this ranking as they split with them and lost to Lakeville North.  Edina’s conference schedule and strength of schedule is the deciding factor between the two and three slot.  Hill-Murray closes out the regular season campaign with a game at Tartan and then host the Moorhead Spuds on Saturday.  This team is indeed a State Title contender although, they will have to work to get through the Section 4AA this year especially with the surging White Bear Lake Bears and Roseville Raiders lurking.

4.  Wayzata Trojans (17-5-1, 5-1-1)

Last Week:  vs Edina (L 3-1), vs Minnetonka (W 6-0)
This Week:  vs Totino Grace (2/11), vs Hopkins (2/15)

A loss to he #2 ranked Edina Hornets does not move the Trojans down a spot in this week’s top ten.  They played a fantastic high school hockey game and a win wold have moved them up in the rankings.  The Trojans bounced back with a 6-0 win over the Minnetonka Skippers this past Saturday.  Games against Totino Grace and Hopkins round out the regular season as they prepare for the Section 6AA tournament and will likely be the top seed.  They are 7-3-1 in their last ten games and have been a steady team all year long.

5.  Blaine Bengals (18-4-1, 14-1-0)

Last Week:  vs Robbinsdale Armstrong (W 10-3), vs Hill-Murray (L 4-3), vs Elk River Zimmerman (W 4-3) vs Champlin Park (W 8-0)
This Week:  vs Andover (2/11), vs Maple Grove (2/15)

It has been an interesting year for the Blaine Bengals who lost last week and actually moved ahead of the Burnsville Blaze because Burnsville suffered a loss as well.  The Bengals loss was to the #3 Hill-Murray Pioneers and the Blaze fell to  Bloomington Jefferson, a fine club in their own right but not a top five team at this point,  3-2 in overtime. The Bengals have quietly carved through the Northwest Suburban Conference and only have four losses on their ledger, all to top ten teams and yes, that includes East Grand Forks the top team in Class A.  A busy week that featured four games in six days.  Blaine picked up a big win over Elk River/Zimmerman that solidified the Bengals hold on first place in the conference race. The Bengals are 9-1-0 in their last ten with their most recent loss at the hands of the Hill-Murray Pioneers last week.  The face the surging Andover Huskies and the tough to play Maple Grove Crimson this week.

6.  Burnsville Blaze (16-6-1, 12-3-0)

Last Week:  vs Prior Lake (W 6-1), vs Bloomington Jefferson (L 3-2 ot)
This Week:  at Bloomington Kennedy (2/11), vs Lakeville South (2/15)

An overtime loss to the once ranked Bloomington Jefferson Jaguars stunned the Blaze and dashed any hope of catching the Lakeville North Panthers for the South Suburban Conference title.  The Blaze are 7-2-1 in their last ten and have been consistent defensively all year long, especially in their last ten games where they have posted 2.30 goals against average.  The Blaze are 6-6-1 in games against top ten opponents with a split against Edina, loss to Wayzata, loss to Hill-Murray and a pair of losses to Lakeville North that keeps the Blaze beneath those teams as they have a 1-5 record against the top four teams this year.  A gritty and underrated Bloomington Kennedy team (11-10-0, 3-5-0) are on the schedule this week and they finish up the regular season against the Lakeville South Cougars.

7.  White Bear Lake Bears (17-5-1, 13-2-1)

Last Week:  vs Hastings (W 9-1), vs East Ridge (W 4-2), vs Roseville (W  8-2)
This Week:  at Forest Lake (2/11), vs Cretin-Derham Hall (2/13)

It has been a steady rise for the Bears this year and they land at #7 this week up a notch from #8 as the Duluth East Greyhounds fall out of the top ten with a pair of losses.  For the Bears it has been a seven game winning streak as they have been cleaning up in the Suburban East Conference.  The first two wins to kick off the streak were against the highly regarded Hermantown Hawks (4-1) and the Grand Rapids Thunderhawks in back-to-back efforts that started the ball rolling.  During that seven game streak the Bears have out-scored their opponents 40-12.  Jake Wallin has been lights out and he has amassed (9g-13a-22pts) during that seven game streak.  He can present a major problem with the Section 4AA as he now has (38g-31a-69pts) to lead his club and all Class AA scorers.  The Bears have a tough game at Forest Lake on Tuesday and a win clinches the SEC title for the Bears.  A loss sets up a major showdown for the conference title with the Cretin-Derham Hall Raiders on Thursday.  That game can be seen on the MNHockeyMag.com streaming simulcast with Sports Radio 105 The Ticket.

8.  Elk River Elks (15-6-0, 11-3-0)

Last Week:   vs Anoka (W 3-1), vs Blaine (L 4-3), vs Centennial (W 3-1)
This Week:  at Anoka (2/11), vs Champlin Park (2/13), vs Robbinsdale Armstrong (2/15)

Despite a loss to #5 Blaine, the Elks move up.   A number of teams lost ahead of them as well.  A three game week is on tap for the Elks with the Northwest Suburban Conference Schedule closing in a fury.  The Elks are 2-3-0 in their last five.  At one point Elk River reeled off eight straight wins and have hit the rough patch of late.  They have three winnable games this week and could finish with an 18 win campaign which is very impressive.  Their record against top ten teams is 3-4-0 this season.

9.  Eastview Lightning (17-5-1, 9-5-1)

Last Week:  vs Lakeville South (W 3-2), vs Rosemount (T 1-1)
This Week:  at Eagan (2/11), vs Prior Lake 2/13

The Lightning are 6-3-1 in their last ten games including a 3-2 win over Lakeville South and a 1-1 tie with Rosemount.  The Lighting have teetered in and out of the top ten and they land back this week at #9.  They have two difficult games this week with Eagan and Prior Lake to close out the season.  They are an impressive 7-0-1 in Section 3AA games and 9-5-1 in the South Suburban Conference and are in third place behind #6 Burnsville and #1 Lakeville North.

10.  Cretin-Derham Hall Raiders (16-5-2, 12-3-2)

Last Week:  vs Roseville (L 4-1), vs East Ridge (W 4-2)
This Week:  at Benilde-St. Margaret’s (2/11), vs White Bear Lake (2/13)

The Raiders maintain the tenth spot despite a loss to the Roseville Raiders by a score of 4-1.   Cretin-Derham Hall owns a 2-2 record against ranked teams this season and have two more tough games to complete their schedule.  They are 6-3-1 in their last ten games including 4-1-1 in their last six affairs.  On the schedule this week is a  non-conference affair with the Red Knights on Tuesday and that game can be seen live on the MNHockeyMag.com.  The Raiders also battle White Bear Lake in a huge Suburban East Conference game on Thursday.  With a White Bear Lake loss to Forest Lake, the game would be a winner take all for the conference title.   It can be seen streaming live on the MNHockeyMag.com and heard simulcast on Sports Radio 105 The Ticket.  The Raiders are an impressive 10-0 in Section 3AA play.

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

1.  Lakeville North Panthers (18-3-1, 14-1-0)

Last Week:  vs Bloomington Jefferson (W 7-1), vs Lakeville South (W 7-2)

This Week:  at Duluth East (2/6), vs Eagan (2/8)

This team is the real deal and they savaged a pair of South Suburban foes in scoring seven goals in both contests last week  One the wins was against the Lakeville South Cougars who will represent the toughest challenge for the Section 1AA title.  They have a tough road game this week against  #7 Duluth East and face an Eagan team that is always tough to play rounding out this week’s action.  A couple of wins this week and a win against Prior Lake in the final week would see them enter the post season as the top ranked team.  None of that matters as we all know it is one and done in the section and state tournaments. They remain the hottest team in AA high school hockey as they have stretched their unbeaten string to 17 games (16-0-1).  For the record, their last loss was December 7th to St. Thomas Academy by a score of 5-2.

2.  Edina Hornets (16-4-1, 3-0-1)

Last Week:  vs Eden Praire (W 2-1), vs Academy of Holy Angels (W 5-1)

This Week:  vs Wayzata (2/6), at Hopkins (2/8)

Here they come, the Hornets are 4-0-1 in their last five and true to their script are getting better with each game in the closing weeks.  One has the feeing they have to be on the short list of State Title favorites.  Not only for talent but for execution.  No teams over the past seven years have won consistently in the clutch and right now is that time.  Our own Tim Kolehmainen equates the Hornets to the New York Yankees of High School Hockey for obvious reasons.  A tough with the Wayzata Trojans, as they have had wars this year.  They also have a sneaky tough game against Hopkins in the Pavilion which is always an interesting affair.

3.  Hill-Murray (17-3-0, 9-1-0)

Last Week:  vs South St. Paul (W 10-1), vs North High (W 6-0)

This Week:  vs Blaine (2/5) at Richfield (2/6), v Simley (2/8)

This is the time where the Pioneers kick back and work the cruise control and close out the Classic Suburban Conference for the last time as it will be history.  Lopsided wins last week make way for three games in four days this week.  An interesting tilt features Blaine and the Pioneers from Aldrich Arena on Wednesday.  The Pioneers are 8-1 in their last nine games and have earned three wins in a row after their 4-2 loss to St. Thomas Academy.

4.  Wayzata Trojans (16-4-1, 4-0-1)

Last Week:  vs Hopkins (W 6-1) vs Eden Prairie (W 3-0)

This Week:  at Edina (2/6) at Minnetonka (2/8)

With a 6-0 section record and counting, the Trojans are locking in the number one seed for a tough section.  They continue their defensive brilliance this year in allowing just one goal against this past week.  They do enough offensively to be effective and win the games they are expected to.  A big game for the Lake Conference title is on the line this Thursday at Breamar Arena as they battle the Edina Hornets.  Another road game is on tap with the Minnetonka Skippers Saturday.

5.  Burnsville Blaze (15-5-1, 11-2-0)

Last Week:  vs Eagan (W 1-0), vs Apple Valley (W 6-0)

This Week:  at Prior Lake (2/6), vs Bloomington Jefferson (1/8)

The Blaze have won a number of ways and like to live on the edge.  So far they have played in three overtime games and are 1-1-1 in those.  They have seven one goal games and are 4-3 in those contests.  They also have a pair of 1-0 wins over Wayata and Eagan this season.  Burnsville has been very good defensively this year and have picked up six shutouts in 21 games or just under a third.  Impressive indeed.  They have tough conference games remaining as they try to keep pace with Lakeville North for the conference crown.

6.  Blaine Bengals (15-3-1, 11-1-0)

Last Week: vs Anoka (W 6-2), vs Centennial (W 3-2 ot)

This Week:  at Hill-Murray (2/5), at Elk River/Zimmerman (2/6), at Champlin Park (2/8)

Through some wins and attrition, the Bengals have risen to the top five again, a place where they really belong this season.  There is so much depth and scoring on this team with a very good blue line that they should have a say in the final outcome of the tournament run.  What is hurting them from being higher in this ranking service is their 3-3-1 record against teams that have been ranked in this particular top ten.  A win over Hill-Murray this week would certainly catapult them higher in the rankings.  Their losses this year have been to East Grand Forks, Wayzata, and Elk River Zimmerman.  This week it is three games in four days and two top teams are on the schedule as they lead off with Hill-Murray on Wednesday.  Elk River is on Thursday and the Elks have dropped two straight meaning the Bengals can seize that opportunity to all but lock up another Northwest Suburban Conference title.  They have won six straight contests since their 6-4 loss to Elk Rive on January 9th.

7.  Duluth East Greyhounds (14-4-1)

Last Week:  vs Lakeville South (W 6-5 ot)

This Week:  vs Cloquet-Esko-Carlton (2/3), vs Lakeville North (2/6), vs St. Michael Albertville (2/8)

The Hounds have six games remaining with two weeks on the schedule.  They make up ground with three this week and it offers up a full variety on the menu.  First, it is the natural rivalry game with CEC on Monday.  Then they follow that with the #1 Lakeville North Panthers in Duluth on Thursday and they close out the week with a plucky STMA squad in a section 7AA game.  The Hounds continue to inch their way up and the feeling is that they, like Edina, get better as the season wears on.  We will learn more about that by the end of this week.

8.  White Bear Lake Bears (14-5-1, 10-2-1)

Last Week:  vs Stillwater (W 6-5 ot), vs Park of Cottage Grove (Win 5-0)

This Week:  vs Hastings (2/4), vs East Ridge (2/6), vs Roseville (2/8)

The White Bear Lake Bears are in the midst of a four game winning streak with quality wins over Hermantown and Grand Rapids.  They squeaked by Stillwater in overtime and handled Park of Cottage Grove to maintain the top spot in the Suburban East and are looking at a potential showdown with Cretin Derham-Hall for the top spot to close out the season.  They have three sticky games in the conference this week that they will need to get through.

9.  Elk River/Zimmerman Elks (13-5-0, 9-2-0)

Last Week:  vs Maple Grove (L 4-2), vs Andover (L 5-2)

This Week: vs Blaine (2/6), at Centennial (2/8)

After winning 8 straight games after the Edina Holiday Classic, they are now on a two game skid with losses to Maple Grove and Andover in Northwest Suburban Conference play.  Both games yielded just two goals in each game and they will need to re-distribute the goal scoring chores over the final weeks to make a push for the State Tournament.  Two difficult games are on deck for the Elks as they face Blaine and Centennial in key Northwest Suburban Conference games.  A loss or two will end up knocking the Elks from the top ten which was something that seemed impossible up until now.  The loss of Andrew Zerban will need to be overcome and this group has the ability to do that.

10.  Cretin-Derham Hall Raiders (15-4-2, 11-2-2)

Last Week:  vs St. Thomas Academy (W 4-3), vs Woodbury (W 8-2), vs Mounds View (T 1-1)

This Week:  vs Roseville (2/6), vs East Ridge (2/8)

Right when one starts thinking, the top ten will have a team that is going to be a team that will stick in it for a few weeks, a loss or in the case of the Raiders, a tie occurs to a team they should have beaten such as the Mounds View Mustangs.  Still, the win over STA and the hammering over Woodbury coupled with 15 wins is enough to keep the Raiders in the top ten mix.  Knocked out this week were the Eden Prairie Eagles and the Raiders reclaim the 10th slot, one they had a few weeks ago.  They are still a force in the 3AA and will be a team that will need to be considered as State Tournament worthy.

The post MHM Class AA Top Ten 2/3/2014 appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

1. Lakeville North Panthers (16-3-1, 12-1-0)

Last Week: vs Eastview (W 4-1), vs Apple Valley (W 3-0)

This Week: @Bloomington Jefferson (1/28), vs Lakeville South (2/1)

The hottest hockey team has been rewarded with the top ranking in the MinnesotaHockeyMag top ten this week. Ignored mostly by the media for most of the season, the Panthers are finally garnering attention beyond the MNHockkeyMag. The Panthers are winners of 9 straight and are 14-0-1 in their last 15 games and that includes wins over teams that have resided in the top ten that include Eden Prairie (7-0), Hill-Murray (3-0), Bunrsville (5-4 ot), and Eastview (3-0) this past week. Three of those wins are shutouts and that speaks volumes. They are in control of the South Suburban Conference title and are expected to be the prohibitive favorite in the Section 1AA that plays out in a few weeks. Many things can happen. This team continues its structured defensive stye and creative offensive ways. With six shutouts and averaging just 1.95 goals against, they have great offensive numbers averaging just under 5 goals a game. A healthy Bloomington Jefferson team will provide a test for the Panthers this week and they have the rivalry game with the Lakeville South Cougars on Saturday. If history has anything to do with it, once a team lands in the top spot of the rankings, it quickly falls from grace this season. For the Panthers, they will work to maintain that top spot another week and change that trend.

2. Edina Hornets (14-4-1, 2-0-1)

Last Week: vs Hopkins (W 7-1), vs Minnetonka (W 4-1)

This Week: vs Eden Prairie (1/30 on Sports Radio 105 The Ticket), vs Academy of Holy Angels (2/1)

The Hornets kept pace in the Lake Conference this week in downing a pair of teams they were expected to beat. Both the Hopkins Royals and Minnetonka Skippers presented different checking schemes on the Hornets who fought through them to pick up back-to-back wins. Edina is like the Energizer Bunny who indeed keeps going and going. This team is always hard to play against and one gets the feeling they are turning the corner to becoming a legitimate State Title contender once again. At this stage, the Hornets took care of business this past week and with the strength of a win and tie against Wayzata and a split with Hill-Murray are slotted ahead of both teams in this week’s rankings at number two. The Hornets are 9-3-1 against top teams that have been ranked in the top ten of the MHM AA polls this year and that includes Breck who have been at or near the top of the A rankings this year. The overall body of work places the Hornets in the second position this week.

3. Hill-Murray Pioneers (15-3-0, 7-1-0)

Last Week: vs St. Thomas Academy (L 4-2), vs Mahtomedia (W 5-2)

This Week: @South St. Paul (1/30), vs North (2/1)

The Pioneers were defeated by the St. Thomas Academy Cadets by a score of 4-2 that opened up a potential tie for the Classic Suburban Conference. The teams have split their two games this year. The Cadets then went on to get lit up by Breck that will keep them out of the top ten for those of you wondering. The Pinneers only fall one slot as they have defeated the Trojans and split with the Hornets this season. The Pioneers are 6-3-0 against top ten teams so far this season and in lieu of Edina’s impressive 9 wins against top ranked teams, the Pioneers stand at number three which was a decision that includes a split with the Hornets. A rivalry game with South St. Paul is on the schedule this week and the high scoring Oliver’s and North High School invade Aldrich Arena.

4. Wayzata Trojans (14-4-1, 2-0-1)

Last Week: vs Minnetonka (W 5-0), vs Prior Lake (W 2-0)

This Week: @Hopkins (1/30), vs Eden Prairie (2/1)

The Trojans and Hornets boast identical records through 19 games this season and share the top spot of the Lake Conference. Wayzata is a defensive juggernaut allowing under a goal an a half against at 1.42 per game. Their penalty kill is stifling at 92% and they play the game as disciplined as any team in hockey. Pat O’Leary’s team limits its mistakes and takes advantage of their opponents as a crisp winning formula. They are on a run of 3-0-1 since losing at Hill-Murray on January 9th. That loss places them one spot behind Hill-Murray coupled with their 0-1-1 record against #2 Edina. Two more Lake Conference games are on the docket for the Trojans and both are also Section 6AA opponents. As they work to wrap up the #1 seed in the 6AA, the Trojans are also working on a potential conference title as well.

5. Elk River Elks (13-3-0, 9-0-0)

Last Week: vs Anoka (ppd), vs Coon Rapids (W 5-0)

This Week: vs BSM (1/28), vs Maple Grove (1/30), @Anoka (2/1)

This is a legitimate top five team and have been most of the season. If it weren’t for the three losses at the Edina Holiday Classic, this team is perfect this year. They have just six games against top ten ranked teams at some point in the season in the MHM rankings and are 3-3 in those games this year. With a spit against Edina and wins against teams in the bottom half of the rankings, the Elks do not have a strong enough resume yet to catapult themselves higher in the rankings. They are a Section 7AA contender and have the style of play that is suited for the post season and that is a game that starts from the blueliners and comes forward as a group of five. It is all complimented with terrific goaltending. The Elks have been perfect in the Northwest Suburban Conference and will be looking to keep it that way with two conference games this week an the offensive minded BSM Red Knights in the house on Tuesday for what should prove to be an entraining tilt.

6. Burnsville Blaze (13-5-1, 12-1-0)

Last Week: vs Rosemount (W 4-1), vs Eden Prairie (T 3-3), vs Eastview (W 3-2 ot)

This Week: vs Eagan (1/28), @Apple Valley (2/1)

The Blaze slithered past Eastview with an extra-attacker and overtime goal.  They coupled that with a win over the Rosemount Irish to claim second place in the South Suburban Conference standings. They tied the surging Eden Prairie Eagles and are 6-1-1 in their last eight games. A test with Eagan stands before them this week and Apple Valley rounds out the schedule for the Blaze. They have had a tough schedule this season and are 6-5-1 in 12 games against teams ranked in the top ten. A few more wins and they would be in the top three of the rankings.

7. Blaine Bengals (13-3-1, 9-1-0)

Last Week: vs Minnetonka (W 4-1), vs Osseo (W 5-2)

This Week: @Robbinsdale Armstrong (1/27 ppd), vs Anoka (1/30), @Centennial (2/1)

It has been four straight wins for the Blaine Bengals since their 6-4 loss to Elk River. The Bengals are 1-3-1 against top ten competition and one of their three losses was to East Grand Forks who are a top Class A team. Their schedule is not peppered with as many top ten match-ups as the teams ahead of them in the top ten and coupled with their losses to those teams, they stand in the 7th slot for the second straight week. The Bengals are favorites in the Section 5AA and have the depth to do damage if they earn the berth to the State Tournament.

8. Duluth East (13-4-1)

Last Week: vs Forest Lake (W 6-1)

This Week: @Minnetonka (1/28), vs Lakeville South (1/30)

The Hounds continue their winning ways as they are 8-1-1 in their last ten games and are 4-3 against teams that have been ranked the top ten. Of late they have been spotty in their victories, with close games against teams that one would think they could handle. With that said, they continue to win and as usual, special teams are key to their success. A power play that connects at a scoring 39% and kill penalties at 89%. They continue their series through the Lake Conference as they take on Minnetonka this Tuesday and then host Lakeville South on Thursday.

9. Eden Prairie (12-5-2, 2-1-0)

Last Week: vs BSM (W 6-5), vs Burnsville (T 3-3) vs Hopkins (W 6-2)

This Week: @Edina (1/30 on Sports Radio 105 The Ticket), @ Wayzata (2/1)

Welcome back to the Eden Prairie Eagles. They were standing on the fringe of the Class AA MHM top ten for several weeks and have put together a solid run of games and are rewarded with the #9 ranking. The Holy Family Catholic loss to Roseau and an Eastview loss last week to Lakeville North tossed them out of the top ten for this week. The Eagles are 3-1-1 in their last five and 3-0-1 in their last four games. The Eagles were in a tough stretch where they went 2-5-1 over an eight game stretch and have gotten back on track. They are 4-5-1 against top ten teams this week and will be facing the Edina Hornets in a pivotal Lake Conference game at Breamar Arena this week.

10. White Bear Lake (13-4-1, 10-2-1)

Last Week: vs Hermantown (W 4-1) vs Grand Rapids (W 4-1)

This Week: vs Stillwater (1/30), @Park of Cottage Grove (2/1)

Major deliberation preceded the number ten team and it was awarded to the White Bear Lake Bears who had been flirting with an appearance in the MHM top ten. We are certain Executive Editor Brian Halverson is jumping with joy over this pick. With that said, the teams considered on the short were Holy Family Catholic, Roseau, and Cretin-Derham Hall. The Bears had a terrific weekend with a big win on Hermantown by a score of 4-1 and then the next day, it was a steady 4-1 win over the Grand Rapids Thunderhawks. With a 2-3 record against previously ranked opponents the Bears thrust themselves in the mix with both wins coming this past weekend. Their overtime effort, a 5-4 loss to the Hill-Murray Pioneers has been well respected as well.

The post MHM Class AA Top Ten 1/27/2014 appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

1.  Hill-Murray Pioneers (14-2-0, 6-0-0)

Last Week:  vs Tartan (W 9-2), vs White Bear Lake (W 5-4 ot), vs Henry Sibley (W 5-0)

This Week:  at St. Thomas (1/23) vs Mahtomedi (1/25)

The Pioneers whitewashed Classic Suburban conference foe Tartan by a score of 9-2 and needed overtime to sneak past chief rival White Bear Lake by a score of 5-4.  It was a Josh French goal at 9:15 of the third period to tie the game at four and Joey Anderson put away the game winning tally 54 seconds into the overtime session.  After losing back-to-back games to Edina and Lakeville North the Pioneers have responded with five straight wins including impressive wins over Edina and Wayzata.  It’s time for the hockey world to keep their eye on French who is a senior and the real deal and scores huge goals for his team.  He has picked up (6a-4a-10pts) in his last five games and is on a four game goal streak.  He also has three game winning goals to his credit this year as well.

2.  Lakeville North Panthers (14-3-1, 10-1-0)

Last Week:  vs Kennedy (W 6-4), vs Burnsville (W 5-4 ot)

This Week:  at Eastview (1/21),  vs Apple Valley (1/25)

The Panthers took care of business by defeating the Bloomington Kennedy Eagles and then looked ahead to the big show down with the Burnsville Blaze, a team they had beaten in week one of the season by a score of 5-2.  This most recent game was a 5-4 thriller that required a Jack Poehling goal with :52 left in regulate.  Ian Klotz closed the deal with the winner at 3:02 in overtime for the Panthers.  A notable aspect regarding  the Panthers is the balance they have offensively which proved to be too much against the Blaze.  Six players now have 20 points or more led by Jack Poehling’s (18g-19a-37pts).  Ten players have earned double digits in points this year as well.   A tough game with Eastview is on deck this week and will challenge their spot in the conference and rankings.

3.  Wayzata Trojans (12-4-1, 1-0-1)

Last Week:  vs Eden Prairie (W 1-0), vs Edina (T 3-3)

This Week:  vs Minnetonka (1/23) vs Prior Lake (1/25)

The Trojans opened the Lake Conference schedule with a well-played 1-0 win over the Eden Prairie Eagles as Jack Sorenson delivered the game’s lone goal late in the third period.  They had a Hornet team after the EP grinder which would test their mettle.  When Wayzata and Edina play, whether on the big sheet or at Braemar, they seem to bring the best out in each other.  Three second period goals changed things for the Trojans as they erased a 1-0 first period Edina lead.  The Hornets scrapped back with a third period goal to force overtime and the eventual tie.  The Trojans continue their play in the Lake Conference with a game against Minnetonka and then host Prior Lake in non-conference action.

4.  Edina Hornets  (12-4-1, 0-0-1)

Last Week:  vs Wayzata (T 3-3)

This Week:  vs Hopkins (1/23 live on Sports Radio 105), vs Minnetonka (1/25)

Let’s be honest earning a tie in one game, the only of a team’s week,  should not warrant moving up one spot in a top notch top ten like the MHM rankings.  However, the Burnsville Blaze lost, and while  it was to the #2 Lakeville North, it was still a loss and put Edina in position to move up.  The tie against the #3 Trojans propels the Hornets over the Blaze this week.  They have split with the Blaze and are 8-3-1 against teams that are ranked in the MHM top ten and that includes long-time #1 Breck in the Class A.  The fact that 12 of their games have been against difficult competition and fighting through it impressively says a lot about this team.  They are always a team to take seriously and will be a factor in the end as always.  They will look to take care of business against Hopkins and Minnetonka in Lake Conference play this week.

5.  Elk River Elks (12-3-0, 8-0-0)

Last Week:  vs Centennial (W 3-2), vs Champlin Park (W 4-1), vs Stillwater (W 4-1)

This Week:  vs Anoka (1/23), vs Coon Rapids (1/25)

While they are known to play in some close games, this team is still equipped, in the opinion of the MHM Rankings Committee, to be major contenders for the Section 7AA title despite their loss to Grand Rapids at the Edina Holiday Classic.  They are in the midst of the seven game winning streak that includes a 4-1 win over Stillwater as they successfully hosted an impressive Hockey Day Minnesota event.   The Elks haven’t lost in nearly a month since the Grand Rapids loss at the Classic on December 21st.

6.  Burnsville Blaze (11-5-0, 7-2-0)

Last Week:  vs Lakeville South (W 5-2), vs Lakeville North (W 5-4 ot)

This Week:  at Rosemount (1/21) vs Eden Prairie (1/23), vs Eastview (1/25)

The Blaze earned a split with the Lakeville teams this week in beating Lakeville South 5-2 and losing a heart breaker to Lakeville North 5-4 in overtime. The loss to Lakeville North stopped a run of four straight games and a period where they won 10 of 11 games.  All five of their losses have come to ranked teams in the top ten of the MHM at some point this season.  The Blaze 5-4 record against top ten teams puts them below Edina in the rankings, who has a better record in such games to go along with their split (Edina and Bville) in two games this year.

7.  Blaine Bengals (11-3-1, 8-1-0)

Last Week:  vs Duluth East (W 5-2) vs Champlin Park (W 7-4)

This Week:  at Minnetonka (1/21), vs Robbinsdale Armstrong (1/23), vs Osseo (1/25)

A huge win was delivered by the Bengals and it was on the road.  It was a much needed victory as the Bengals were stumbling with a 1-2-1 record going into actoin last week.  The Bengals are now 2-3-1 against teams ranked at some point in the Class AA or Class A MHM rankings.  Their week is a mix of non-conference an conference play leading off with Minnetonka followed by a pair of  NWSC games featuring Robbinsdale Armstrong and Osseo.  Blaine will look to keep pace in the conference with the Elk River Elks.

8.  Holy Family Catholic Fire (10-3-1, 5-0-0)

Last Week:  vs Orono (W 8-2) vs Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato (Win 10-0)

This Week:  at  Delano (1/21),  vs Hutchinson (1/22), vs Roseau (1/24),

The Fire make their debut at #8 in the MHM rankings this week and for good reason. At this point, they should be the #2 seed of the Section 6AA.  Their only loss in sectional games was to Wayzata and that was in overtime.  They average 5.36 goals per game and just 2.14 against.  Noel Rahn’s team has won four straight and 9 of their last 10.  They are 1-1-1 against teams that have been ranked in the Class AA of the MHM and have the tie against Breck who has been #1 Class A for much of the year. They will be challenged  this week by the offensive game of the Roseau Rams and the Delano Tigers are a tough team to play against.

9.  Eastview Lightning (13-3-0, 6-3-0)

Last Week:  vs Prior Lake (L 5-3), vs Hastings (W 5-2), vs Rochester John Marshall (W 10-1)

This Week:  at Lakeville North (1/21), vs Woodbury (1/24), vs Burnsville (1/25)

The loss to the Prior Lake Lakers is a tough one, but at 8-7-1 the Lakers have been hit and miss this year.  Due to that , it isn’t enough to toss the Lightning from the top ten as a 13 win season to this point is impressive.  They responded to the loss big over Hastings and Rochester John Marshall.  They are 2-2 against top ten teams this year.

10.  Duluth East Greyhounds (12-4-1)

Last Week:  vs Blaine (L 5-2), vs Apple Valley (W 2-1), vs Maple Grove (T 2-2)

This Week:  at Forest Lake (1/21)

It was an underwhelming week for the Hounds yet they hold on to the final spot of the top ten by their finger nails.  A 1-1-1 week that included a loss to Blaine and a scare overtime win over Apple Valley.    The Hounds have one Section 7AA game against Forest lake this week.  They are 4-3 against the top rated teams in the MHM polls this year and subsequently fall in the number ten spot.

The post MHM Class AA Top Ten 1/20/14 appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.