SCOREBOARD | GAME LIVE

SAINT PAUL— He had just watched his team fight back from a two-goal deficit more than halfway through regulation but St. Cloud Cathedral coach Eric Johnson wasn’t sweating out the result as he prepared his team for overtime. With his fourth-seeded Crusaders tied 3-3 with Totino Grace and an extra eight minutes on the clock, Johnson knew, win or lose, he really didn’t have much of a say in it.

“I’ve been doing this quite a while now and I don’t get that nervous in overtimes,” Johnson said. “The reality, for the most part, is it’s out of your hands and you’ve got one kid or a couple kids that need to make a play.”

A couple of his kids did make a play and earned the Crusaders a Class A state tournament semifinal date with No. 1 ranked East Grand Forks on Friday. Cathedral sophomore forward Erik Gadbois lunged for a rebound of a Matt Fritz shot and netted the game winner 5:21 into overtime to defeat fifth-seeded Totino-Grace 4-3.

“After Matt’s shot the goalie kind of went back into the net a little bit,” Gadbois said of Eagles goaltender Dominic Wippler who was lying face up in his crease after Fritz’s shot. “So I had a wide open upper shelf so I just flipped it up and got [the goal].”

The winning sequence was aided, in part, by a bench minor for too many men on the ice—the second such infraction of the game committed by the Eagles—leaving Totino-Grace shorthanded at the time.

“The unfortunate part about it is the puck happened to come right to the bench, which is the last place you want it when you’re on a [line] change,” Loahr said. “To their credit, Cathedral capitalized on it.”

In addition to his assist on the game winner, Fritz scored Cathedral’s first two goals while Logan Neu and William Hammer each had a pair of assists. Hammer’s two points added to his school-record-setting career point total which now sits at 174. After allowing three goals on 15 first-period shots, Crusaders’ goalie Zach Fritz stopped all 14 shots he faced the rest of the way for his comeback contribution.

“It felt like we turned the game a little bit in the second half,” Johnson said. “Both teams played their hearts out tonight and Totino has nothing to hang their heads on.”

“I thought we played pretty well that first period and the first half of the second. We were bottling them up, we’d get the puck deep and forechecked well,” Totino-Grace coach Mark Loahr said. “I think the T.V. timeouts hurt us a little bit. We had some real good momentum and all of a sudden there was kind of a lag and we’re waiting around and we kind of just lost a little bit that way.”

After Fritz got St. Cloud Cathedral on the board first 5:26 into the game, two Joey Brey goals sandwiched around a Blake Vagle tally just five minutes apart gave the Eagles a 3-1 lead after one.

Johnson said the Crusaders’ slow start was a function of his team acclimating themselves to the Xcel Energy Center environment.

“The first half of the game, really, we got worked,” Johnson said. “They were really good and caused some issues for us but our guys just sort of stayed even keel and we knew the next goal was huge.

“If it was 4-1 them, we were in trouble but we got it to 3-2 on a heck of a play by Logan [Neu] and Matt to get us some momentum and then from that point on we were fine.”

Near the 11-minute mark of the second period, Neu carried the puck into the left circle and lifted a pretty saucer pass over a sprawled out Eagle defender right to the stick of Fritz who directed it behind Wippler to pull Cathedral within one.

Still trailing in the final minute of the second, the Crusaders received a huge boost heading into the second intermission from an unlikely source. Third-line winger Leo Lommel redirected a shot by Hammer which bounced of Wippler right to Lommel who poked in the rebound for just his sixth of the season to tie the game 3-3 with just 14 seconds on the clock.

Johnson said he’s “super proud of our second and third line (Gadbois is on Cathedral’s second line). They’ve taken some jabs lately about we’re a one-line team and they came through big for us tonight.”

Johnson said the Crusaders will head back to St. Cloud on Thursday to practice and presumably step back from the unique distractions the tournament presents.

“It gets to be a long week for the kids and we’re only 60 miles away so we might as well take advantage of that and get home and sleep in our own beds.”

The post Crusaders Ground the Eagles appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

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The post State Tourney Gallery: St. Cloud Cathedral vs. Totino-Grace appeared first on Minnesota Hockey Magazine.

Road to State:
Red Wing 2-0
Northfield 3-0
Mankato West 3-2

Top 5 Scoring Leaders:
Player                         GP    G    A    Pts

Augie Isaacson        28    23    29    52
Seth Kriha                28    11    35    46
Alex Gregor             28    19    22    41
Austin Kilian           28    21    13    33
Casey Busch            28    11    16    27

Goaltending Leaders:
Player                         W    L    T    GAA        Sv%        Sho

Conner Wagner              18    4    3    2.47        .895            3

What to expect:  
The Trojans make their state tournament debut this year and are the first team other than Rochester Lourdes to represent Section 1A in five seasons.  But it wasn’t easy, as they had to earn their berth by topping a solid Mankato West team in the section final, 3-2.  A three-pronged offensive attack in Augie Isaacson, Seth Kriha, and Alex Gregor leads the way for New Prague. The Trojans enter the tournament on an eight-game winning streak and have outscored their opponents 38-13 in those games.  As the No. 3 seed, the Trojans have a tough first round opponent in Chisago Lakes.

Orono Spartans  (19-8-1, 8-4-0)
Head Coach:  Kasey Yoder (1st season, 19-8-1)
Section:  2A
Conference:  Wright County Conference, 2nd place
State Tournament appearances:  (7) 1992, 93, 2002, 03, 04, 06, 07
State Titles: None

Road to State:
Chaska 6-2
Bloomington Kennedy 2-1 (ot)
Breck 2-1

Top 5 Scoring Leaders:
Player                        GP    G    A    Pts

Joey Luedtke            28    12    22    34
Jake Flemmer           28    14    17    31
Sam Challgren           28    6    18    24
David McCuskey       28    11    9    20
Tripp Renard             28    9    10    19

Goaltending Leaders:
Player                           W    L    T    GAA        Sv%        Sho

Jonathon Flakne             15    7    1       2.03        .911          6
Grant Mathiason              1    1    0       2.50        .898        0

What to expect:  
The Orono Spartans snapped Breck’s stronghold of five straight seasons as Section 2A champions by knocking the Mustangs out in the final game — much to the delight of a rabid student section.  This is the Spartans’ first trip back to the state tournament since 2009, and in Kasey Yoder’s first year as coach, they are playing the necessary game to succeed in the post season by winning a pair of 2-1 tight checking games for the section title.  The Spartans are 3-4-0 against Class AA teams and have a schedule that benefits them for the stretch run.  Their first round opponent could challenge for the Class AA title in East Grand Forks, who is tough to score on. The Spartans will have to be in full shutdown mode to advance.

Luverne Cardinals  (27-0-1, 10-0-0)
Head Coach:  Derrick Brown (5th season, 98-29-5)
Section:  3A
Conference:  Southwest Conference, 1st place
State Tournament appearances:  (1) 2014
State Titles: None

Road to State:
Morris Benson 13-2
Hutchinson 4-0
New Ulm 6-1

Top 5 Scoring Leaders:
Player                           GP    G    A    Pts

Chaz Smedsrud              28    38    49    87
Logan Norman               28    22    48    70
Jaxon Nelson                 28    30    40    70
Gunnar Olson                26    38    28    66
Toby Sengvongxay       28    20    32    50

Goaltending Leaders:
Player                       W    L    T    GAA        Sv%        Sho

Kendall Meyer            18    0    1    1.16           .949            6
Connor Crabtree        6    0    0    1.26           .896             2

What to expect:  
The Cardinals are the only unbeaten team in high school hockey.  Naysayers suggest that the Cardinals’ schedule is not tough enough.  Those that look closer will first note that this team is 49-4-2 over the last two seasons — beating the teams they are “supposed to” beat.  This year, they won the Schwan Cup Open division and are 4-0-1 against teams from the Metro area.  They outscored their opponents 206-32 on the season and as evidenced, weren’t squeaking by the competition.  Their offensive balance includes senior players such as Gunnar Olson and Logan Norman all the way to eighth-grade sensation Jaxon Nelson.  Coach Derrick Brown has depth to rely on yet their biggest challenge and toughest opponent of the season is on deck with the Hermantown Hawks who are state tournament tested.

Totino-Grace Eagles (17-10-1, 8-0-0)
Head Coach:  Mark Loahr (33rd season, 508-286-26)
Section:  4A
Conference:  North Suburban Conference, 1st place
State Tournament appearances:  (5) 1993, 95, 2002, 05, 14
State Titles: (1) 2002

Road to State:
St. Paul Como Park 7-1
South St. Paul 1-0
Mahtomedi 5-4 (ot)

Top 5 Scoring Leaders:
Player                GP    G    A    Pts

Kai Barber            28    19    12    31
Nick Tandeski            28    15    14    29
Ben Henderson         28    10    13    23
Bandon Hilliard        28    7    15    22
Blake Vagle            28    5    16    21

Goaltending Leaders:
Player                         W    L    T    GAA        Sv%        Sho

Dominic Wippler        12    8    1    2.70        .903                 2
Jack Lux                         2    2    0    3.38        .862                0

What to expect:
The Eagles return to the state tournament after a nine-year absence by squeaking out a pair of one-goal sectional games, including a classic 5-4 overtime win against Mahtomedi.  Coach Mark Loahr won his 500th game earlier this year and recently won the Bruce Johnson award for outstanding contributions in promoting the Minnesota Coaches Association and the sport of hockey. He knows his way around state tournament hockey and the Eagles will be prepared.  After starting the season 4-6-1, the Eagles finished the season 13-4-0.  Totino-Grace challenges itself with a difficult schedule and was 3-4-1 in seven games against Class AA teams.  As the No. 5 seed, the Eagles will have a rematch with St. Cloud Cathedral. Back on Jan. 25, Cathedral won 5-4.  Another close game can be expected by these two teams when they open the tournament on Wednesday.

Chisago Lakes Area Wildcats (20-8-0)
Head Coach:  Paul Gibson (2nd season, 38-17-1)
Section:  5A
Conference:  Mississippi 8 Conference, 3rd place
State Tournament appearances:  (2) 1995, 2014
State Titles: None

Road to State:
North Branch 13-0
Proctor 5-2
Princeton 5-4

Top 5 Scoring Leaders:
Player                             GP    G    A    Pts

Brandon Gillespie            28    25    26    51
Blake Lizotte                     28    14    34    48
Trevor Lushanko             28    23    24    47
Ryan Chambers               28    13    15    28
Landon Lushanko          28    10    18    28

Goaltending Leaders:
Player                       W    L    T    GAA        Sv%        Sho

Jake Dubose               10    6    0    1.94          .920            5
Bryce Thompson        6    2    0    2.34          .906             2

What to expect:  
With the four-time defending section champions from Hermantown moved to Section 7A this winter, the Wildcats seized the opportunity and captured their first section title since 1995.  They put together an impressive 20-win season and accomplished that in the Mississippi 8 Conference where a number of Class AA teams reside.  Since  the Stadstad Tournament over the holiday season, the Wildcats went on a 12-3-0 run including seven wins in their last eight games.  A one-two punch of Brandon Gillespie and Blake Lizotte will be formidable in the Class A tournament.  The Wildcats open with New Prague in the quarterfinals.

St. Cloud Cathedral Crusaders (20-7-1, 3-0-0)
Head Coach:  Eric Johnson (10th season, 185-61-9)
Section:  6A
Conference:  Granite Ridge Conference, 1st place
State Tournament appearances:  (6) 1993, 94, 2004, 08, 09, 14
State Titles: None

Road to State:
Little Falls 8-1
Sartell-St. Stephen 3-1
Alexandria 2-1

Top 5 Scoring Leaders:
Player                       GP    G    A    Pts

Will Hammer             28    24    27    51
Matt Fritz                    28    15    24    39
Dan Bailey                   28    7    31     38
Logan Neu                   27    18    16    34
Trevor Cornelius        28    7    9    16

Goaltending Leaders:
Player                   W    L    T    GAA        Sv%        Sho

Zach Fritz                16    7    1    2.32           .911           2
Camren Dehler        1    0    0    0.71           .957           1

What to expect:  
The St. Cloud Cathedral Crusaders are back in the state tournament for the first time since 2009.  Formerly in Section 5AA, they are now in with the other St. Cloud area schools and proved to be the bet of the lot this winter.  The Crusaders lost a few top level players early and are relying on several underclassmen to get the job done along with Will Hammer, who is now the all time leading scorer in team history.  The Crusaders open the tournament with a mirror image in themselves in the Totino-Grace Eagles which could prove to be the most entertaining first round match-up in the quarterfinals.

Hermantown Hawks (22-4-2, 5-0-2)
Head Coach:  Bruce Plante (25th season, 462-190-20 )
Section:  7A
Conference:  Lake Superior Conference, 1st place
State Tournament appearances:  (11) 1994, 98, 99, 2001, 06, 07, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14
State Titles:  (1)  2007

Road to State:
International Falls 9-0
Duluth Denfeld 6-1
Marshall School, Duluth 6-2

Top 5 Scoring Leaders:
Player                 GP    G    A    Pts

Ryan Kero             28    21    27    48
Nate Pionk            28    20    28    48
Scott Wasbotten    28    21    21    42
Kori Ochs                26    15    16    31
Cole Koepke            28    17    13    30

Goaltending Leaders:
Player                    W    L    T    GAA        Sv%        Sho

Adam Smith            10    3    0    2.66          .895            0
Jace Thomas            9    1    1    1.67             .923            3

What to expect:  
A regular state tournament participant, the Hawks have been to the big dance five straight years. They advanced to the finals each of the last four years only to lose the championship game each time.  This year may be different for the Hawks as they have championship credentials.  However, a deep field presents itself this year and could present a tough run for the Hawks.  Ryan Kero and Nate Pionk were regular contributors from last year’s team and understand the tournament and its environment.  Coach Bruce Plante has two high level goaltenders to turn to in Adam Smith and Jace Thomas.

East Grand Forks Green Wave (25-2-1, 8-0-1)
Head Coach: Tyler Palmiscno (5th season, 77-47-6)
Section:  8A
Conference:  Mariucci Conference, 1st place
State Tournament appearances:  (9) 1971, 80, 82, 98, 99, 2001, 13, 14
State Titles:  None

Road to State:
Lake of the Woods 10-0
Detroit Lakes 8-1
Warroad 3-2 (ot)

Top 5 Scoring Leaders:
Player                      GP    G    A    Pts

Dixon Bowen            18    17    20    37
Reed Corbid             28    14    21    35
Grant Loven             28    14    21    35
Tanner Tweten        28    15    13    28
Brandon Loven        28    14    11    25

Goaltending Leaders:
Player                   W    L    T    GAA        Sv%        Sho

Josh Weber            18    1    1    1.22             .922           4
Garrett Lieberg        5    1    0    1.00           .898           3

What to expect:
Dixon Bowen blew up for 10 points in three playoff games (4g-6a-10p) and took over the team lead in points — despite appearing in only 18 games this year.  But it’s on defense where East Grand Forks is a championship contender. The Green Wave are a defensive juggernaut and play the game in all three zones as well as any team in high school hockey.  They only allow 1.20 goals against per game.  They have a power play over 24 percent and a penalty kill that registers over 90 percent efficiency.  Goals against and special teams equal success and the Green Wave could experience plenty of it this state tournament.

The post Class A Tournament Preview 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.

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.

Featured Image Credit:
(Tim Kolehmainen)

The more some things change, the more they remain the same. It may be cliché, but the statement holds true for the Class 1A rankings this week, as the back half of the rankings shuffled significantly, but the top held strong.

The top of the Class 1A rankings remained the same, as the four heavyweights (No. 1 East Grand Forks, No. 2 Breck, No. 3 Hermantown and No. 4 Warroad) posted an impressive eight victories in nine games. Only Warroad’s 5-3 defeat against Class 2A power Grand Rapids broke the streak of victories.

It was in the Nos. 5 through 10 spots where there was significant movement, as a few programs (Blake and Thief River Falls, most notably) suffered through tough weeks and dropped out of the top-10 while a few continued season-long winning streaks (Alexandria and St. Paul Academy) and jumped into the back end of the top-10.

1. East Grand Forks (4-0-0)

Last week: vs. Grand Forks Central (3-0 W), at Grand Forks Red River (5-1 W)

This week: at Crookston (12/10), at Blaine (12/13), at Breck (12/14)

How difficult is it going to be to score against the Green Wave this year? Two neighboring North Dakota schools found out that it will be plenty tough, as Grand Forks Central and Grand Forks Red River combined for just one goal in two games against the East siders. But even that’s impressive. Red River’s lone goal is the only one scored in four games against the Green Wave this year. Garrett Lieberg (2-0-0, 0.00, 1.000) and Josh Weber (2-0-0, 0.50, .955) have split the goaltending duties equally and both are playing like they want to grab the full-time job. It helps when they’re fronted by the best defensive corps in Class 1A — and perhaps the entire state.

2. Breck (4-0-1)

Last week: at Providence Academy (4-2 W), vs. Thief River Falls (9-0 W)

This week: at Holy Angels (12/10), vs. East Grand Forks (12/14)

Breck is rolling and it’s coming at the right time, as a huge showdown against top-ranked East Grand Forks looms on Saturday. The Mustangs put a 9-0 hurting on another highly-regarded Mariucci Conference team (Thief River Falls) to cap last week as Mark Sharp and Will Blake each scored twice. Blake (6-4-10) leads the team in goals while Michael Orke (5-7-12) is the top point getter ahead of Blake and Chase Ellingson (4-6-10). The Mustangs outshot the Prowlers 45-13 with goalie Henry Johnson (3-0-1, 1.68, .936) stopping every one for his first shutout of the season.

3. Hermantown (3-1-0)

Last week: at Hopkins (5-1 W), at Orono (3-2 W)

This week: vs. Thief River Falls (12/13)

The Hawks had an interesting week, easily taking out Lake Conference school Hopkins in its own building on Friday night, then eeking out a victory at Orono the next day, although Hermantown did hold a two-goal lead must of the game. Coach Bruce Plante looks to have a very balanced team, as seven different players have scored two goals each (Ryan Kero, Nate Pionk, Wyatt Aamodt, Kori Ochs, Scott Wasbotten, Cole Koepke and Parker Hawk) and 14 have at least one point. What is unusual to this point is that the Hawks are allowing 3.25 goals per game, a high number for the usually stingy defense. Attribute that to a tough opening week, though, as they gave up six in a loss to Wayzata and four to Princeton. Since then, the Hawks have tightened up in their defensive zone.

4. Warroad (4-1-0)

Last week: vs. Lake of the Woods (12-2 W), vs. Virginia (7-0 W), vs. Grand Rapids (5-3 L)

This week: vs. Bemidji (12/10), at Grand Forks Central (12/13)

The Warriors continued to light the lamp at a seven goals per game pace behind three stars among the state’s scoring leaders: senior Kyle Sylvester (6-14-20) and juniors Jared Bethune (9-12-21) and Kobe Roth (8-10-18). That trio has combined for 23 of the team’s 35 goals and must continue to lead the way as the Warriors develop young depth. Warroad has received offensive contributions from a trio of defensemen, as well, in hard-hitting Blayke Nelson (2-4-6) and brothers Luke Jaycox (3-3-6) and Nick Jaycox (1-1-2). The Warriors did lose their first game to Grand Rapids on Saturday, but they hung tight all game with the big-school powerhouse.

5. Totino-Grace (2-1-1)

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

This week: vs. Mahtomedi (12/10), at Delano (12/12), vs. Holy Family Catholic (12/14)

The Eagles continue to play it close to the vest as coach Mark Loahr figures out from where he’s going to get scoring punch. Last week, that resulted in a low-scoring victory against Blake and a tie with Holy Angels. But it also came with a possible new sniper, as senior Nick Tandeski (4-0-4) tallied two goals in each game. He’s one of only four Totino-Grace players with a goal this season and Brennan Swan (2-0-2) is the only other with multiple goals. Thankfully for Eagles’ fans, Totino has been very strong defensively, anchored by Jason Krych. Dominic Wippler (1-1-0, 1.58, .947) and Jack Lux (1-0-0, 1.00, .941) split time in goal.

6. Mankato West (3-0-0)

Last week: vs. Mankato East (9-1 W), vs. Austin (7-1 W), vs. Winona (10-0 W)

This week: vs. Faribault (12/10), at Owatonna (12/12), at Winona (12/14)

The wait was worth it for Mankato West. One of the last teams to play a game, the Scarlets wasted no time in romping past three opponents by a combined 26-2 score. The scoring burst wasn’t unexpected, as West returned a deep group of scorers that have many predicting a return to St. Paul in March for the program. Derek Frentz (7-8-15) exploded for five goals against Winona and Nick Campbell (4-9-13) and Galt Goettl (2-8-10) are also among the state’s scoring leaders. Cole Filler (4-0-4) chipped in with a hat trick against Austin. West doesn’t have the toughest schedule early on, so it could run off quite a winning streak.

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

Last week: at New Prague (5-4 W), vs. Rochester Lourdes (3-0 W)

This week: at Little Falls (12/10), at Sartell-St. Stephen (12/12), at Alexandria (12/14)

So much for starting slow. Despite losing numerous key veterans to graduation and early departures, St. Cloud Cathedral and coach Eric Johnson remain one of the top programs in Class 1A. The Crusaders posted two tight victories last week against two of the Section 1A contenders (Rochester Lourdes and New Prague) to remain unbeaten. As expected, veterans Will Hammer (1-6-7) and Dan Bailey (1-5-6) lead the way, although there is a Fritz — or two — thrown into the plans. Junior Matt Fritz (3-2-5) leads the team in goals and junior goaltender Zach Fritz (4-0-0, 1.70, .918) has been solid in net. A big game against Alexandria looms on Saturday. The Crusaders were moved into Section 6A with the Cardinals this past offseason.

8. Delano/Rockford (2-1-1)

Last week: at Chanhassen (2-2 T)

This week: at St. Louis Park (12/10), vs. Totino-Grace (12/12)

Delano rallied late against Chanhassen to earn a tie in its only game last week. Jack Nelson tallied the tying goal with 4:22 to play and keep the Tigers from dropping further in the rankings. It’s tough at the top. While Chanhassen isn’t an offensive powerhouse, the Storm did throw 42 shots on net. Tigers’ fans should give thanks for goaltender Tyler Rizzardi (2-1-1, 2.17, .931), who stopped 40 of them to allow his team to earn a point. Delano has had scoring depth thus far, as through four games, 11 players have already recorded a goal and no one has more than two.

9. Alexandria (3-0-0)

Last week: vs. Brainerd (4-3 W), at Sartell-St. Stephen (4-2 W)

This week: vs. Fergus Falls (12/10), at Willmar (12/12), vs. St. Cloud Cathedral (12/14)

In the preseason, Alexandria was tabbed by a few observers (including this one) as a potential sleeper team in Section 6A. The rest of the state certainly took notice last week, largely on the strength of a surprising 4-3 victory over Class 2A’s Brainerd, which is expected to contend for a state tournament berth. The Cardinals twice rallied from a goal down to tie the Warriors, then sent the visitors packing with a Parker Revering goal just over 3-1/2 minutes into overtime. Alexandria isn’t winning big, but with Sam Goetsch (3-0-0, 1.95, .900) providing a wall in goal, the Cardinals are winning.

10. St. Paul Academy (4-0-0)

Last week: vs. Mahtomedi (3-2 W), vs. Simley (4-2 W)

This week: vs. Blake (12/12), at North St. Paul (12/14)

Another team living by the “just win, baby” motto is St. Paul Academy, which sneaked past a pair of opponents last week to remain unbeaten. Like Alexandria, the Spartans are tough to score against, having allowed only five goals in four games. Goaltender Noah Parker has been stellar on limited shots, with a 1.25 GAA and .935 save percentage through four games. There is offensive talent, as well, anchored by Drew Blackmun (3-6-9) and Jake Westfield (5-4-9). Westfield scored twice in the latest victory over Simley. SPA should be tested further this week, beginning with a Thursday night game against Blake, which just dropped out of the rankings.

Others receiving votes: Blake, Thief River Falls, Duluth Marshall, New Prague, Luverne, Chisago Lakes, Willmar, St. Cloud Apollo, Orono, Hibbing/Chisholm.

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

Featured Image:
Blake’s Cade Gleekel on the rush against Forest Lake at the 2012 Schwan Cup.
(Photo: Tim Kolehmainen)

Just over a week into the season, and there has already been a shake up in the Class 1A rankings. Not at the top, where the top four positions remain the same, but in the back of the rankings, where Delano/Rockford and Blake leaped into the fray with impressive early results. Delano/Rockford’s only loss on the season is to No. 2 Breck, while Blake fell only to the Tigers in the season-opener and just completed a tough road trip to the northwest with a pair of victories.
But it will be difficult to break through against No. 1 East Grand Forks — which has yet to allow a goal in two games — No. 2 Breck and No. 3 Hermantown, the four-time state runners up.

1. East Grand Forks (2-0-0)
Last week: vs. Park Rapids (5-0 W), vs. Totino-Grace (4-0 W)
This week: vs. Grand Forks Central (12/3), at Grand Forks Red River (12/7)
As expected, defense led the way for the Green Wave in the opening week of the season. In a pair of games, East Grand Forks posted shutouts in each, outscoring Park Rapids and Totino-Grace by a combined 9-0. With all six returning defenseman from last year’s state tournament team, the Green Wave are proving to be very difficult to solve in their own zone. Park Rapids managed just five shots on Garrett Lieberg and Totino-Grace had just 12 shots on Josh Weber. Both goaltenders saw limited time last year and are dueling to take over the main job from graduated Tanner Lindstrom. Grant Loven had a goal in each game, as seven other players tallied one goal in a balanced attack.

2. Breck (2-0-1)
Last week: at Mahtomedi (6-1 W), at Delano (7-4 W), at Holy Family (2-2 T)
This week: at Providence Academy (12/3), vs. Thief River Falls (12/7)
Breck coach Les Larson always challenges his teams with tough schedules and it was no different in the opening week of the season this winter. The Mustangs responded with two wins over top-10 caliber Class 1A teams and a tie against high-powered Holy Family Catholic. As expected, senior goaltender Henry Johnson played all three games — and played well — stopping 90 of 97 shots, including a big 38-save effort against Holy Family. The Mustangs lost several key veterans to graduation, but Chase Ellingson and Michael Orke have come out of the gate on fire and been joined by sophomore Will Blake, who had two-goal games against both Mahtomedi and Delano. The trio already had 10 goals in three games.

3. Hermantown (1-1-0)
Last week: vs. Wayzata (1-6 L), vs. Princeton (6-2 W)
This week: at Hopkins (12/6), at Orono (12/7)
Hermantown recovered from a season-opening humbling against Class 2A power Wayzata by racing past a strong Princeton program, 6-2.  Six different Hawks scored against the Tigers, led by Ryan Kero’s three-point night (one goal, two assists). Hermantown must get that kind of balance this season with the younger players stepping up to the varsity level for coach Bruce Plante. Jace Thomas got the start in goal against Princeton, making 26 saves, but is nominally the backup behind returning All-Stater Adam Smith. The Hawks are still meshing as the newcomers — and Hibbing transfer Eric Gotz — get acclimated to the program, but Hermantown is an annual contender for a good reason: talent and great coaching.

4. Warroad (2-0-0)
Last week: at Mound-Westonka (8-0 W), at Detroit Lakes (5-1 W)
This week: vs. Lake of the Woods (12/3), vs. Virginia (12/6), vs. Grand Rapids (12/7)
One factor argued against a high ranking for Warroad is the top-heavy nature of the Warriors’ attack. True, but when that top line is humming, the Warriors are going to be very difficult to beat. The top trio of Kobe Roth, Jared Bethune and Kyle Sylvester combined for 10 goals and 26 points in a pair of big victories to open the year. Bethune used his rugged physical skills to notch a hat trick in each game. But perhaps the true key to Warroad’s season will come in its own zone, where strong defensemen such as Nick Jaycox, Luke Jaycox and tough-as-nails Blayke Nelson will be supporing new goaltender Alex Burke. Burke has been solid so far, stopping 35-of-36 shots in two games.

5. Delano/Rockford (2-1-0)
Last week: vs. Blake (4-0 W), at Providence Academy (5-0 W), vs. Breck (4-7 L)
This week: at Chanhassen (12/5)
The Tigers were unranked in the preseason poll, but impressed in an opening week that saw them shut out Blake and Providence Academy and lose a high-scoring game to No. 2 ranked Breck. Tyler Rizzardi made 53 saves to win his first two starts in goal — both in shutouts — as the Tigers played tough defensively. Then came a contrasting style, as the game against Breck devolved into firewagon hockey with a combined 11 goals scored. Which style is Delano going to play? That’s to be seen. Justin Oja, Grant Prinsen and Adam Eskola each have two goals scored through three games.

6. Blake (2-1-0)
Last week: at Delano (0-4 L) at Thief River Falls (3-1 W), at Crookston (9-2 W)
This week: at Totino-Grace (12/5), vs. Duluth Marshall (12/7)
After a tough shutout loss at Delano to open the season, Blake rebounded with an impressive northwestern trip with big wins at Thief River Falls and Crookston. Those results jumped the Bears way up in the rankings after they had been unranked in the preseason. It could be that the young Bears have learned how to win after they struggled through a tough winter last year. Many of the key Bears’ forwards, such as Cade Gleekel, Coleman Dressen, Mark Lyman and Johnny Ferguson, returned this year with a chip on their shoulder. Just a sophomore, Gleekel leads the team with three goals and five points.

7. Mankato West (0-0-0)
Last week: none
This week: vs. Mankato East (12/3), vs. Austin (12/5), vs. Winona (12/7)
Nothing new for Mankato West, which hangs onto the No. 7 spot and has yet to play a game. The Scarlets are one of the last teams in the state to play, as they open Tuesday against crosstown rival Mankato East. The early schedule isn’t particularly challenging, but with a veteran team for coach Curtis Doell, West should come out flying. As in the Scarlets’ last trip to state (2008), this year’s team is high-scoring and potent up front, anchored by 38-goal scorer Derek Frentz.

8. Totino-Grace (1-1-0)
Last week: at East Grand Forks (0-4 L), at Thief River Falls (3-1 W)
This week: vs. Blake (12/5), at Holy Angels (12/7)
It was a good news/bad news trip to the northwest corner of the state for Totino-Grace. The Eagles managed to earn a split, beating Thief River Falls but losing to top-ranked East Grand Forks on each team’s home ice. That’s the good news. The bad news is that the Eagles sputtered on offense, scoring just three goals in the two games. After getting just 12 shots at East Grand Forks, the Eagles did pump 28 on the Thief River Falls goal, netting three in the second period. Kai Barber is the only player with more than one point. With graduation and transfers robbing the Eagles of much of its goal-scoring from last winter, it could be a season-long effort to develop more scorers for coach Mark Loahr.

9. Thief River Falls (1-2-0)
Last week: vs. Roseau (3-0 W), vs. Blake (1-3 L), vs. Totino-Grace (1-3 L)
This week: at Tartan (12/6), at Breck (12/7)
The Prowlers looked like world-beaters after they shut out powerful Roseau on opening night, but spiraled downwards against a couple of Twin Cities private schools over the weekend, falling by identical 3-1 scores to Blake and Totino-Grace. Both schools jumped Thief River Falls in the rankings and put the Prowlers in danger of falling out of the top-10. The schedule doesn’t get any easier for coach Tim Bergland and crew, as a trip to the Twin Cities this weekend sees games against Class 2A Tartan and second-ranked Breck. The Prowlers must find scoring outside of Isak Bergland, who has three of the team’s five goals. Tanner Holmes is a great comfort in goal, as he’s stopped 86 of 92 shots in playing every minute so far.

10. St. Cloud Cathedral (2-0-0)
Last week: vs. Duluth Denfeld (3-2 W), at Fergus Falls (3-1 W)
This week: at New Prague (12/3), vs. Rochester Lourdes (12/7)
So much for starting out slowly with a young and inexperienced team. Despite a lineup peppered with varsity newcomers, coach Eric Johnson and the Crusaders battled past a pair of Class 1A teams in tight games. Perhaps not surprisingly, it was the few returning veterans who led the way, as Will Hammer had four assists and Matt Fritz and Dan Bailey combined for five points. Zach Fritz has also been strong in goal in his first two games, making 30 saves on 33 shots. As Cathedral’s youngsters gain experience, the results could be even more impressive. This week the Crusaders get a couple of other young Class 1A teams on the schedule in New Prague and Rochester Lourdes.

Others receiving votes: Duluth Marshall (1-2-0), Mahtomedi (1-2-0), Princeton (1-1-0), Duluth Denfeld (1-2-0), Spring Lake Park (1-0-0), Hibbing/Chisholm (2-1-0), St. Cloud Apollo (2-1-0), St. Paul Academy (2-0-0)

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