A shutout is no small feat under normal circumstances but this one was far from ordinary. With starting goaltender Caelin Brueske’s jersey hanging from the glass behind the East bench, junior Luca Barnett stepped into the crease for his teammate, who missed the game due to illness, stopping all 10 West shots in his first-ever varsity appearance. 

“Just stop the puck, that’s all I was thinking about,” Barnett said of his varsity debut, holding a mini hockey stick tight to his chest. “I don’t think it really hit me until the game was over and I was surrounded by everybody screaming my name.”

“Our guys went out there and played for him to make sure that he could get that one,” East coach Adam Fries said of his long-haired emergency goaltender.

Mankato East junior goaltender Luca Barnett is laser-focused on the puck in the third period of his 5-0 shutout win over Mankato West in his first varsity appearance for the Cougars at Minnesota State’s Blakeslee Stadium in Mankato. (David Faulkner / SPX Sports)

In a game marked by blowing and drifting snow delaying puck drop by 14 minutes and leading to multiple first-period shoveling stoppages, Cougars junior defenseman Shae Gavin plowed through the snow for two goals and an assist in the first 17 minutes. Gavin took a break between scoring his eighth and ninth of the season to help set up Parker Anthony for his sixth of the year for a 3-0 East lead after one period.

Olsen said the Cougars adjusted to the conditions quicker than his Scarlets in that stickhandling through the snow drifts would prove to be difficult.

“We really struggled to get the puck out of our own end,” West coach Nate Olsen said. “What we needed to be doing was just shooting it high off the glass, getting it out and letting it run.”

East did not go undefeated vs. the snow as Cougar forward Quintin Steindl’s first-period breakaway opportunity was thwarted by a snow pile in the slot. Later in the period, Gavin found himself in a similar situation but maintained control and scored. “I let him know,” laughed Gavin, referring to Steindl.

“It was very frustrating,” said Steindl through a smile lifting his eye-black covered cheeks. “I got a lot of jabs from my teammates and stuff. … It’s one to remember, though.” 

What Steindl will remember more is Anthony finding him streaking up the slot with a pass and slamming home his sixth of the season late in the second period to close out the game’s scoring. 

But, as Olsen says, the game made for plenty of memories to go around for both teams and the final outcome will land pretty low on the list no matter what jersey was worn.

“They’re going to remember the locker room and their buddies,” Olsen said. “It was as pure as the game gets out here with the snow and a little wind. In Minnesota, what more can you ask for?”

The post Cougars Win East-West Snow Down appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

The Cougars (15-5-0, 7-3-0 in Big Nine conference play) outshot the Scarlets (4-14-1, 3-8-0) 33-6 for the game but West goaltender Alyana Smith kept her team in it, making 23 of her 28 saves through two periods while surrendering just two goals. But Keller sandwiched two of her three goals in the final period around Tibodeau’s tally to finish the game with 27 on the season, including five against the Scarlets.

Ashley Fischer opened the scoring at 7:10 of the first period for the Cougars and the lead remained 1-0 until Keller doubled it midway through the second. Tibodeau’s third-period goal at the 10:08 mark, which came on the game’s lone power play, was set up by Jess Eykyn whose 17th assist on the season gave her at least a point in 11 consecutive games.

The post Keller tricks Scarlets appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

Blake, Ellingson hat tricks lead Breck over Mankato West

ST. PAUL — After a disappointing quarterfinal round exit at last year’s State Boys Hockey Tournament, Chase Ellingson and William Blake made sure the Breck Mustangs’ stay at the Xcel Energy Center would last a little longer this time around.

Ellingson and Blake each had a hat trick and added an assist as second-seeded Breck rolled to an 8-0 win over Mankato West in the first Class A quarterfinal game on Wednesday.

The Mustangs, which lost 1-0 to St. Cloud Apollo in the quarterfinal round last season, will play Thief River Falls in Friday’s 11 a.m. Class 1A semifinal in St. Paul. The Prowlers beat Princeton 6-1 in Wednesday’s second quarterfinal.

“This is our seventh time here. We’ve learned that you’ve gotta win that first game,” Breck coach Les Larson said. “I’ve got nothing against Mariucci [Arena], but there are 10,000 empty seats a 9 a.m. [on Friday]. We’ve experienced that. It’s a lot better to be here. And now we’re here, so we can move onto the next step.”

In the process, Breck’s lethal power play claimed another victim, scoring all three times it was on the ice. This time, it was the Scarlets on the business end of one of the state’s best man-advantage units.

Breck’s power play, which has clicked at a 40 percent clip entering the tournament, scored twice in the first period to give the Mustangs a 2-0 lead after 17 minutes.

“We work really hard on it. We spend a lot of time on it,” Larson said. “And we have good players. We have players that understand what we’re trying to do.”

Blake scored his first goal of the day and Breck’s third power-play goal 60 seconds into the second period.

But the senior forward wasn’t done.

He added an even-strength goal then a short-handed tally, finishing the natural hat trick in a span of 6 minutes 41 seconds.

“It’s pretty special. A lot better than last year, a lot more fun,” Blake said. “It’s nice to get it done, get the win and move onto the next one.”

The three-goal burst staked Breck to a 5-0 lead headed to third period when Ellingson put the finishing touches on his hat trick with a pair of goals, including one pretty coast-to-coast effort that also came short-handed.

“We came out in the second period looking to shut them down and get rid of all hope,” Ellingson said. “We know you can’t leave a team hanging around. They’ll score a couple of goals and it’s a whole new game. Those goals in the second period were huge for us.”

Ellingson, a Mr. Hockey Award finalist, now has 40 goals and 37 assists in 29 games this season.

“He always has a good game. He always has a good practice,” Larson said. “I’ve never seen a guy that consistent for four years. I’ve never seen him play bad and he always plays, at least, very good. We’re going to miss him.”

The Scarlets skated with Breck for the opening five minutes of the game before a holding penalty on freshman Nick Wieben near center ice put the Mustangs on their first power play at 5:07.

Junior Austin Heidemann banged home a rebound 1:41 into the man advantage to give Breck a 1-0 lead.

Wieben was whistled for kneeing five minutes later and Ellingson roofed a rebound try after an initial pad save by West junior goaltender Jackson Peterson.

The Scarlets never recovered.

“We came out with the intensity we needed to come out with,” West coach Curtis Doell said. “We were skating with them 5-on-5, we get the penalty and it took the wind out of our sails.”

West had two five-minute power play chances to get back into the game in the second and third periods, but instead saw Breck score short-handed on each opportunity.

“We were a split second behind on everything which I think led to a lot of blocked shots,” said West captain Tyler Loe. “We put ourself in a position to bury a few pucks with two five-minute penalties, we just couldn’t do it.”

Breck sophomore goaltender Linden Olness made 16 saves before giving way to sophomore Blaine Madson for the final eight minutes of play.

Peterson finished with 27 saves.

The Scarlets will move to the consolation bracket and play Princeton  at Mariucci Arena at 10 a.m. on Friday.

The post Power Players appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

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.

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

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.

It was a big stretch of victories for the top 10 teams, as the programs combined to go 15-2-0 in 17 games (those that weren’t postponed due to the arctic blast early last week, of course). One of those losses, however, was handed to our No. 1 team, Breck, in a 4-3 overtime decision at Class 2A Moorhead. So was that enough to knock the Mustangs from the top spot?

Not quite.

Comparing results, losses and other factors, coach Les Larson’s club hangs onto the top spot by the narrowest of margins.

Class A rankings

1. Breck (9-3-1)

Last week: vs. Minneapolis (postponed), at St. Paul Academy (3-2 W), at Moorhead (4-3 L)

This week: vs. St. Cloud Cathedral (1/14), vs. Duluth Marshall (1/17)

One of the few losses suffered by our top 10 teams last week was by Breck, which fell in a 4-3 overtime game at Moorhead Saturday night. But looking at the body of the Mustangs’ work helps them retain the top spot in the rankings. All three of their losses have come to perennially strong Class 2A programs (4-1 to Edina, 2-1 to Duluth East and 4-3 at Moorhead), whereas they are a perfect 7-0-0 against Class 1A teams, outscoring them by a combined 46-9. That said, Breck is just 2-3-0 in its last five games and edged St. Paul Academy by a single goal in its other game last week — the same team Duluth Marshall beat 9-1 later in the week. It’s up to the top scorers such as Michael Orke (11-13-24), Chase Ellingson (6-18-24) and Mark Sharp (10-8-18) to power the offense after a slow week.

2. East Grand Forks (11-2-1)

Last week: at Grand Forks Central (3-1 W)

This week: at Roseau (1/14), at Bemidji (1/16), at Lake of the Woods (1/18)

East Grand Forks is another team that is being pressured for its No. 2 ranking by the two teams immediately below it. The Green Wave are winning and doing it with a dominant defensive effort. They’ve allowed more than two goals just once this year, already have 10 games in which they’ve allowed one or none, and average only 1.36 allowed per game. It’s a tribute to the fine veteran defensive corps led by Colton Poolman (2-7-9), Eddie Eades (2-2-4), Taylor Brierley (2-5-7) and Tye Ausmus (2-1-3). But the East Siders just aren’t getting much offense, either. They average 3.14 goals per game and no one has more than Tanner Tweten’s eight goals. A game this Tuesday night at Roseau will be an interesting measuring stick, as rival Warroad just beat the Rams 6-4.

3. Hermantown (11-2-0)

Last week: at Grand Rapids (postponed), vs. St. Cloud Cathedral (6-0 W)

This week: vs. Bemidji (1/18)

Since losing to Eagan in the South St. Paul Premier Tournament final over the holidays, the Hawks have been on a roll. Three straight victories by a combined 22-2 score over three perennially strong programs (Duluth Marshall, International Falls and St. Cloud Cathedral) have shown that Hermantown may deserve to jump into the top spot in the rankings. Like top-ranked Breck, the Hawks only losses have been to Class 2A powers (6-1 to Wayzata and 4-1 to Eagan). Scott Wasbotten (10-11-21) has also gotten hot, with four goals and five assists in the three blowout victories. Another thing to keep an eye on is the goaltending battle, senior Jace Thomas (6-0-0, 1.12, .953) got the nod in all three victories over All-State Adam Smith (5-2-0, 2.79, .875) and he’s responded well.

Featured Image:
In a pair of victories last week, Warroad’s Kobe Roth scored a combined seven goals and leads the entire state in both goal-scoring and points.
(Photo by Tim Kolehmainen)

4. Warroad (13-2-1)

Last week: at Roseau (6-4 W), vs. Crookston (10-3 W)

This week: at Thief River Falls (1/16), vs. Moorhead (1/18)

It was a good week to be a Warroad fan. It was a better week to be Kobe Roth (31-30-61). After giving his verbal commitment to Minnesota-Duluth along with teammate Jared Bethune (24-35-59), the shifty junior rocked the northwest with seven goals in two victories over Roseau and Crookston last week. He started with four goals against Roseau, scoring at least once in each period, then had a hat trick against Crookston, as did Bethune. Meanwhile, all linemate Kyle Sylvester (20-35-55) did was pick up a goal and six assists in the two games. Fire wagon hockey reigns supreme with that top Warroad line, which features the top three point-getters in the entire state.

5. New Prague (10-2-2)

Last week: vs. Holy Angels (3-2 W), at Chaska (2-1 W)

This week: at Red Wing (1/14), vs. Northfield (1/16)

We said last week that New Prague wasn’t going to blow any teams out, but that the tough Trojans just know how to grind out victories this year. They proved it again last week, beating both opponents by a single goal. That’s actually four straight one-goal wins for New Prague, which is 6-2-2 in games decided by one goal or fewer. Augie Isaacson (11-15-26) scored twice in the win over Holy Angels, including the game-winner with just under four minutes remaining and had one of the team’s two goals against Chaska. He’s tied for the team lead in goals with Austin Kilian (11-8-19) and in points with Seth Kriha (5-21-26).

6. Mankato West (13-2-0)

Last week: vs. Rochester Lourdes (postponed), at Rochester Mayo (2-1 W), at Rochester Century (4-1 W)

This week: vs. Northfield (1/18)

West continued its unbeaten run through the Big 9 Conference last week, but it wasn’t easy as both Rochester Mayo and Century slowed down the Scarlets’ potent offense. In beating Mayo 2-1, West needed a goal from leading scorer Derek Frentz (15-23-38) with 27 seconds left to earn the win, despite outshooting the Spartans 35-17. They also outshot Century 46-15 but held a slim lead until Frentz again scored late in the third period to stretch it out comfortably. But as good teams do when snakebitten, coach Curtis Doell’s squad tightened up defensively. Jake Spiess (7-1-0, 1.36, .902) stopped 16 of 17 shots against Mayo and Conor Wollenzien (6-1-0, 1.29, .936) made 14 saves on 15 shots against Century.

7. Duluth Marshall (9-5-1)

Last week: at Superior, WI (4-2 W), vs. St. Paul Academy (9-1 W)

This week:  at Breck (1/17), at Roseville (1/18)

Duluth Marshall avenged a loss in its holiday tournament to Superior (WI), beating the Spartans 4-2 to open last week, then posted an impressive 9-1 rout of St. Paul Academy, which had just played a one-goal game with top-ranked Breck. The Hilltoppers hope the transitive property works in their favor, as they travel to Breck this Thursday. Against Superior, Lane Krenzen (4-6-10), Jack Dodd (6-9-15) and Peter Lenz (6-4-10) scored to erase a 2-1 deficit as Marshall outshot the Spartans, 33-21. That scoring punch continued against SPA, as Lenz scored twice more and Luke Dow (6-12-18) had two goals and two assists. That kind of scoring balance is key, as the ‘Toppers have a strong overall lineup led by Luke Pavelich (12-11-23), but no true superstars.

8. Luverne (16-0-1)

Last week: at Fairmont (13-2 W), vs. Willmar (4-0 W)

This week: vs. Redwood Valley (1/17)

All right, it’s fair to admit that Luverne doesn’t have as strong a schedule as the teams above it in the rankings. That said, there’s something to be said for passing every test along the way. The Cardinals remained the lone unbeaten team in the state last week, including winning 4-0 against Willmar, a game many pointed at as a possible stumbling block for Luverne. But Logan Norman (14-27-41) scored twice and Kendall Meyer (11-0-1, 1.27, .954) stopped all 31 shots for the shutout as the Cardinals kept on rolling. While the offense of youngsters Chaz Smedsrud (23-30-53) and Jaxon Nelson (20-22-42) and seniors Norman and Gunnar Olson (16-17-33) gets most of the attention, Meyer has been outstanding in goal as a calm veteran presence.

9. Orono (10-4-0)

Last week: vs. Delano (postponed), at Bloomington Kennedy (3-1 W), at Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato (5-2 W)

This week: vs. Holy Family Catholic (1/14), vs. Delano (1/16), vs. Hopkins (1/18)

Orono hit the road last week and managed a pair of victories to keep pace with the rest of the top 10. Joey Luedtke (5-10-15) more than doubled his goal total on the season with three in the two victories. Getting offensive contributions from both top lines is key for the Spartans, as Jake Flemmer (9-7-16) leads the team in both goals and points. Goaltender Jonathon Flakne (9-3-0, 1.25, .941) continued to stymie opponents, as he made 13 saves on 14 shots against Kennedy and 27 of 25 against the Dragons. Much like New Prague, Orono doesn’t jump out at you with big point totals, but the Spartans know how to win.

10. St. Cloud Cathedral (9-5-0)

Last week: at Hermantown (6-0 L)

This week: at Breck (1/14), at Becker/Big Lake (1/16), vs. Mora/Hinckley-Finlayson (1/16)

That’s three straight losses and five in six games for St. Cloud Cathedral after being shut out at Hermantown last Friday. So whey are the Crusaders still ranked in the top 10? Look at the competition. The last three games have been on the road against the No. 2 (East Grand Forks), No. 4 (Warroad) and No. 3 (Hermantown) teams in Class 1A. The losing streak very well might hit four Tuesday night, as Cathedral travels to No. 1 Breck. The recent win-loss record doesn’t show it, but Cathedral is a good team hitting a very tough stretch of its schedule. Getting its offense going is key to a resurgence, as in those three losses, Cathedral has just one total goal — from Brady Johnston (7-2-9).

Others receiving votes:

Delano, Alexandria, Totino-Grace, Thief River Falls, Mahtomedi, St. Paul Academy, Chisago Lakes, Virginia/Mt. Iron-Buhl

The post MHM Class A Top Ten 1/15/2014 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.

For every argument, there is a counter argument that is just as valid.

Fun? Did I mention it can also be frustrating?

So it is atop the Class 1A rankings this week. One night after beating the top team in Class 2A (Blaine) in impressive fashion, East Grand Forks was shot down by Breck — and so relinquishes its top spot to the Mustangs this week.

Featured Image:
Breck’s David Husband checks out the view from the top of this week’s Class A rankings.
(Photo/Tim Kolehmainen)

1. Breck (6-0-1)

Last week: at Holy Angels (7-6 W), vs. East Grand Forks (6-0 W)

This week: vs. Rochester Lourdes (12/21)

The Mustangs leap into the top spot courtesy of a big 6-0 victory over visiting East Grand Forks last Saturday. The Green Wave had been unbeaten and barely scored upon, but Breck found a way to amass six goals in the game — a very impressive feat for coach Les Larson’s club. Scoring goals hasn’t been a problem for the Mustangs, as they average 5.14 per game so far this year and tallied seven in a tight win over Holy Angels earlier in the week. Want scoring depth? David Husband (4-0-4) had a hat trick against EGF but is only tied for ninth on the team in scoring. Chase Ellingson (5-11-16), Michael Orke (8-8-16) and Will Blake (6-5-11) lead the offensive powerhouse.

2. East Grand Forks (6-1-0)

Last week: at Crookston (4-1 W), at Blaine (3-1 W), at Breck (6-0 L)

This week: vs. Bemidji (12/17), vs. Warroad (12/20)

Give the Green Wave a bit of a break. After allowing a total of just three goals in six straight victories to open the season, East Grand Forks finally threw up a stinker in falling 6-0 at Breck. But it was the second day of a back-to-back road trip to the Twin Cities and just hours after the Green Wave had beaten the No. 1 team in Class 2A (Blaine) on its home rink. Tired legs? Probably. Despite the result against Breck, coach Tyler Palmiscno’s crew remains formidable. We’ve talked plenty about its defense, anchored by Colton Poolman (2-2-4), Taylor Brierley (2-1-3), Eddie Eades (1-1-2) and Tye Ausmus (1-0-1). But lets talk offense, too. Big Tanner Tweten (5-0-5) leads the team in goal-scoring, while Grant Loven (3-4-7) is tops in points. They’ll be needed, as a huge home game against Warroad is on tap for this Friday night.

3. Hermantown (4-1-0)

Last week: vs. Thief River Falls (7-2 W)

This week: vs. Duluth Denfeld (12/17), at Rogers (12/21)

The Hawks had just one game last week, but certainly made it count, racking up seven goals against visiting Thief River Falls — a program normally known for its defensive play. Nate Pionk (4-6-10) and Ryan Kero (4-9-13) each had two goals and combined for 10 points in the game. Not surprisingly, they also lead the team in scoring on the season. But like the other top teams in Class 1A, it’s the depth of the program that has Hermantown and coach Bruce Plante near the top of the rankings again. Seven Hawks have at least two goals on the year and 14 have scored a point through five games.

4. St. Cloud Cathedral (7-0-0)

Last week: at Little Falls (7-1 W), at Sartell-St. Stephen (3-2 W), at Alexandria (3-2 W)

This week: vs. Prairie Centre (12/20)

You have to believe that even St. Cloud Cathedral coach Eric Johnson is surprised by the Crusaders’ fast start. In preseason scrimmages in Moorhead, Johnson admitted to having a young and inexperienced team this year, but one that he hoped would jell as the year went along. Turns out, it didn’t take long at all. The Crusaders ripped off three more wins last week, including an impressive 3-2 victory at previously unbeaten Alexandria on Saturday. Cathedral isn’t scoring a ton of goals outside of top scorers — and returning veterans — Will Hammer (5-7-12) and Matt Fritz (6-4-10), although Logan Neu (4-1-5) did score twice against Alexandria. But the Crusaders are getting it done on defense, allowing just 1.7 goals per game. Zach Fritz (7-0-0, 1.58, .932) has stepped into the goaltending role without missing a beat.

5. Warroad (5-2-0)

Last week: vs. Bemidji (4-3 L), at Grand Forks Central (5-1 W)

This week: vs. Thief River Falls (12/17), at East Grand Forks (12/20)

Warroad continues to get the job done against Class 1A competition, but has lost twice against the deeper teams at the Class 2A level on its schedule (Grand Rapids and Bemidji). That’s to be expected as the Warriors and coach Jay Hardwick rely heavily on their top line of Kyle Sylvester (9-17-26), Jared Bethune (11-14-25) and Kobe Roth (10-14-24). That trio has combined for 30 of the team’s 43 goals on the season. Developing scoring depth is key to a deep playoff run for the Warriors. They’ll certainly get a taste of that postseason action this week by hosting Thief River Falls on Tuesday and traveling to East Grand Forks on Friday. Those are the two chief rivals for Warroad, year-in and year-out.

6. Mankato West (6-0-0)

Last week: vs. Faribault (6-0 W), at Owatonna (9-2 W), at Winona (6-0 W)

This week: at Albert Lea (12/17), at Rochester John Marshall (12/19), at LeSueur-Henderson/St. Peter (12/21)

At this point, there doesn’t appear to be a lot of competition for the Scarlets down south, as they continue to romp through the early part of their schedule. Mankato West rolled past three more opponents last week to remain unbeaten. In six games, the Scarlets have outscored their opposition by a massive 47-4 margin. Needless to say, there are plenty of big numbers being put up by West’s top players. Derek Frentz (9-13-22) led the team in scoring last year and is well on his way to doing so again, but there are four other Scarlets in double-figure scoring already: Nick Campbell (8-9-17), Max Mettler (5-9-14), Galt Goettl (3-10-13) and Christian Klemme (2-9-11). Another week with three winnable games is on the horizon for coach Curtis Doell and company. It could be a while before West is knocked from the ranks of the unbeaten.

7. Alexandria (5-1-0)

Last week: vs. Fergus Falls (5-0 W), at Willmar (3-2 W), vs. St. Cloud Cathedral (3-2 L)

This week: at Moorhead (12/17), vs. Sauk Rapids-Rice (12/19)

Despite losing to St. Cloud Cathedral on Saturday, the Cardinals weren’t penalized in the rankings. It’s hard to knock a team that actually outshot its opponent (38-34) and forced overtime before falling to another unbeaten team. The Cardinals will get a chance to show more this week, as they visit Moorhead on Tuesday night. An interesting side note on that game: back when it was still in Class 2A, Alexandria was the last team other than Moorhead or Roseau to win the Section 8AA title (way back in 1996) . Ryan Marciniak (5-3-8), Brady Bast (4-4-8) and Matt Resch (4-2-6) have done the majority of the goal-scoring so far, while the well-traveled Sam Goetsch (5-1-0, 1.77, .908) has been a savior in goal.

8. Duluth Marshall (4-2-0)

Last week: vs. Grand Rapids (6-4 W), vs. International Falls (5-1 W)

This week: at Proctor (12/17), at Benilde-St. Margaret’s (12/21)

Welcome back to the rankings, Duluth Marshall. You never should have left. Injuries have slowed the Hilltoppers through the first few weeks of the season, but when healthy this team is a possible contender for a state title. Since losing to St. Cloud Apollo, the ‘Toppers have ripped past traditional Class 1A powers Blake and International Falls and then upset Grand Rapids by scoring the final three goals of the game, two from Lane Eliason (2-1-3).  Luke Pavelich (7-3-10) leads the team in scoring, while Alex Murray (4-2-0, 2.67, .902) has been solid in goal. As coach Brendan Flaherty gets his team back to full strength, expect it to rise even higher in these rankings. A big test awaits on Saturday with a trip to Benilde-St. Margaret’s.

9. Delano (3-2-1)

Last week: at St. Louis Park (2-0 L), vs. Totino-Grace (4-2 W)

This week: at Bloomington Kennedy (12/17), vs. Waconia (12/19)

In one of the more surprising results of the week, the Tigers lost to unranked St. Louis Park, 2-0 on Tuesday night. The Orioles seemed to be a program on the ropes after former coach Shjon Podein stepped down and several players transferred in recent years. But as hockey fans know, sometimes a goalie can make all the difference. Conor Klaers stopped all 39 shots Delano fired at him for that win, one of a number of impressive ones he had last week. The Orioles nearly leapfrogged into this spot, but the belief is that Delano remains the strong all-around team, which the Tigers proved two days later by downing Totino-Grace behind two goals from Justin Oja (4-4-8) and a three-point night from Ben Meyers (2-6-8). Delano has an awfully tenuous hold on a ranking, though.

10. Luverne (7-0-0)

Last week: at Litchfield/D-C (7-2 W), vs. Fairmont (13-0 W), vs. Minnehaha Academy (5-3 W), vs. Morris/Benson Area (12-1 W)

This week: vs. Windom Area (12/17), vs. Worthington (12/19), at Achiever Academy (12/21)

It’s a jumbled mess at the bottom of the rankings between teams with great records located in non-traditional hockey areas of the state (see Luverne, Chisago Lakes and Willmar) and traditionally-strong teams with not-so-great records (see Totino-Grace, Blake and Mahtomedi). Let’s give a bit of love to the newbies in the 10-spot, as Luverne cracks the rankings with a perfect 7-0-0 start. The Cardinals have been romping through the competition in the southwest corner of the state, outscoring seven opponents by a combined 57-7 margin. Many observers tabbed the Cardinals’ game against Minnehaha Academy as a possible indicator of their true strength. Luverne passed with a 5-3 victory, keyed by two goals from Jaxon Nelson (12-10-22) and three-point nights for Andrew Verhey (3-9-12) and Chaz Smedsrud (13-13-26). Saturday’s game against Achiever Academy could also be a test for Luverne.

Others receiving votes: Chisago Lakes, St. Cloud Apollo, Totino-Grace, Mahtomedi, Orono, St. Louis Park, St. Paul Academy, Blake, Orono, New Prague, Willmar

The post MHM Boys A Top Ten appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.