Wisconsin is staking an early claim to the WCHA title, while North Dakota may be shaking out of its early season funk.
Wisconsin - UP
Badgers in first place going into the college hockey showdown. Six
months ago, they looked to be the weak sister in this foursome, but now
could come out with a pair of wins. Will look to avenge Icebreaker lost
to Michigan State.
North Dakota - UP
Got the result they were looking for last week, a home sweep. The Sioux
are now a solid 5-2-1 but have an off week before crucial matchups at
Wisconsin and home with St. Cloud. The week off could kill the slowly
building momentum, or give a little rest time for early season injuries.
St. Cloud State - UP
Even more of a surprise than Wisconsin, most thought they'd be where
Minnesota is and not vice versa. The next few weeks will be telling for
the Huskies.
Colorado College - UP
With some time to adjust to the loss of Cugnet, the Tigers go in and stun
Minnesota. This is a team to fear. St. Cloud should thank their lucky
stars they met them when they did.
Minnesota - DOWN
A bad season in Minnesota, who'da thunk it. Of course, all is not lost
yet, but they can't keep losing D-men. What will they do to the season
ticket holders if the Gophs have to hit the road for the first round of
the playoffs.
Minnesota-Duluth - DOWN
After a gut-check win at North Dakota, the 'Dogs get swept at home.
Wisconsin is talented, but you need to hold court at home if you want to
go anywhere.
3. David Hoogsteen, North Dakota - His 2-2-4 weekend included two goals Saturday night to go with an assist on the game winner Friday night. Sparked the up-to-then lethargic Sioux power play to four pp goals Saturday.
2. Scott Swanson, Colorado College - Defender also put up 2-2-4 totals, getting a helper on Saturday's OT gamewinner.
1. Mark Valley, Wisconsin - Picked up a shutout Friday night and gave up only a pair on Saturday to lead the Badgers to another sweep. Looking like the next in the long line of stellar UW netminders.
Alaska-Anchorage at Colorado College
The Seawolves will have a long weekend, as the Tigers look for their first home wins of the season. It won't matter who is in goal, CC will sweep.
Michigan Tech at Minnesota-Duluth
The Huskies are back to their old trick, with a 1-7 start in the WCHA. Look for Duluth to get back on the winning track, sending Tech to 1-9.
St. Cloud State at Denver
The Pioneers will be hungry after getting swept at Nebraska-Omaha and North Dakota. St. Cloud is off to a strong start. A split is likely.
Minnesota, Wisconsin at Michigan, Michigan State
College Hockey Showcase
The CCHA teams have home ice in this revamped series. Minnesota is struggling and would be happy with a split. Wisconsin has a shot at a sweep, with a tight contest against the Spartans under their belt.
North Dakota - off
Vindy
Let's Drop the Puck
GO BACK TO THE COLUMNIST INDEX PAGE.