The bracket for the NCAA men`s hockey tournament is set, featuring a strong presence from Hockey East and the Big Ten conferences, promising exciting competition this year.
This year, 10 of the 16 teams come from the nation`s two strongest conferences, with six from Hockey East and four from the Big Ten. Familiar teams like conference champions Western Michigan, Minnesota State, and Cornell are competing, alongside newcomers UConn and Bentley, making their first appearances in the tournament.
Boston College and Michigan State are the top seeds and have been leading teams throughout the season. However, the competition is fierce with several strong contenders. Denver, Quinnipiac, and UMass, all No. 3 seeds, have recent national championships, proving their capability to win it all again.
The tournament also boasts impressive talent, including Boston College`s Ryan Leonard, Michigan State`s Isaac Howard, Minnesota`s Jimmy Snuggerud, and Denver`s Zeev Buium.
Regional games begin on Thursday, with regional finals on Saturday and Sunday.
ESPN college hockey analysts Andrew Raycroft and Sean Ritchlin shared their insights on key aspects of the tournament, including teams and players to watch, and their predictions for the Frozen Four in St. Louis on April 10th and 12th.
Will Boston College and Michigan State Reach the National Championship Game? Who Could Upset Them?
Raycroft: While Boston College and Michigan State are strong, it`s unlikely they will both make it to the final. Defending champion Denver, a highly ranked team, could easily disrupt their path in the regionals. Denver`s leadership, including Matt Davis, Zeev Buium, Jack Devine, and Coach David Carle, makes them a formidable opponent.
Ritchlin: Michigan State`s momentum feels significant, especially with their solid defense and reliable goalie. They don`t just win; they control the game. Boston College`s offense is potent when their top players are performing, but they need to prove they can win tough, close games, not just rely on speed and skill. Their loss to Northeastern in the Hockey East quarterfinals might serve as a necessary wake-up call.
Western Michigan is also a well-rounded team, recently defeating Denver in overtime for the NCHC championship. The Broncos are built for tournament play, with depth and balance, and have been consistently strong all season.
Which Lower-Ranked Team Will Be the Toughest Opponent?
Raycroft: UMass finished the Hockey East season strong, with an 11-3-2 record in their last 16 games. They`ve proven they can compete with and beat all the Hockey East teams in the tournament.
Ritchlin: Penn State is a team nobody wants to play right now. Since January, they`ve transformed. Their aggressive forecheck and puck pursuit, characteristic of Coach Guy Gadowsky`s style, is relentless and effective. When Penn State`s forwards are energetic and physical, they can quickly wear down opponents. While Maine is disciplined, Penn State`s speed and chaotic net-front presence could disrupt Maine`s game. Playing in Allentown also gives Penn State a significant home-ice advantage, which can be crucial in tournament hockey.
Who is the Most Crucial Player for Their Team`s Success?
Raycroft: Boston College`s goalie, Jacob Fowler. As a Mike Richter Award favorite with an impressive 1.63 goals-against average and a .940 save percentage, he needs to maintain his exceptional performance for the top-seeded Eagles to win the championship.
Ritchlin: Michigan State`s goalie, Trey Augustine. He`s demonstrated his ability to handle pressure, including at the World Juniors. Augustine is composed, quick, and rarely allows second chances. His consistency gives the Spartans confidence to attack offensively, knowing they have a strong last line of defense.
Who Will Win the Hobey Baker Award?
Raycroft: It`s likely between Boston College forward Ryan Leonard and Penn State forward Aiden Fink. Boston College`s losses in the Beanpot and Hockey East tournament might hurt Leonard`s chances, as Fink`s strong performances have been more recent, coinciding with Penn State`s impressive run. Both are strong contenders.
Ritchlin: While Leonard might not be the top scorer, he is the most complete player in college hockey, contributing in all situations and bringing physicality. Michigan State forward Isaac Howard has also been clutch, scoring critical goals. He`s a reliable player whose impact is significant in key moments. Jack Devine leads in points and drives Denver`s offense, but his scoring streaks might make voters hesitate. However, his skill and vision are exceptional.
Frozen Four Predictions:
Raycroft:
- Boston College: Expect them to learn from their Hockey East quarterfinal loss and perform strongly in Manchester.
- Michigan State: They will overcome a tough regional in Toledo, led by Trey Augustine and Isaac Howard.
- Western Michigan: The highest-scoring team will continue their offensive dominance in Fargo.
- UConn: Despite losing to Maine in the Hockey East final, they will get revenge in the regionals.
Ritchlin:
- Boston College: Their explosive offense, if combined with tighter defense, makes them championship contenders.
- Michigan State: Arguably the most balanced team, with top goaltending and strong structure, peaking at the right time.
- Western Michigan: Coming off a gritty NCHC title, they are experienced, physical, and know how to win close games.
- Penn State: Their relentless forecheck, momentum, and home crowd support make them a serious threat.
Rupert Hartwell