Get ready for an exciting hockey showdown! The battle between No. 4 UND and Arizona State is about to ignite the ice!
In a highly anticipated series opener, UND takes on the Sun Devils at Mullett Arena. With a passionate fan base and a history of intense rivalries, this game promises to deliver an unforgettable experience.
But here's where it gets controversial... Both teams are bringing unique strategies to the ice. UND, with their powerful forward lines, including the dynamic trio of Mac Swanson, Ellis Rickwood, and Will Zellers, aims to dominate the offensive zone. Meanwhile, Arizona State is shaking things up with their lineup adjustments. Kyle Smolen, stepping into Cullen Potter's spot, will be a key player to watch.
And this is the part most people miss... UND's goaltender, Gibson Homer, is facing his former team. Talk about an emotional rollercoaster! Will he rise to the occasion or be haunted by memories of his past?
Let's dive into the details:
Game Information:
- Time: 8 p.m. Central/7 p.m. Arizona time
- Venue: Mullett Arena, Tempe, Ariz.
- TV Broadcast: Midco Sports and Fox 10 Phoenix
- Radio: The Fox (96.1 FM)
- Live Stream: NCHChockey.com/tv
UND's Starting Lineup:
- Forwards: Mac Swanson, Ellis Rickwood, Will Zellers, Dylan James, Cole Reschny, Ben Strinden, Cody Croal, Jack Kernan, Ollie Josephson, Anthony Menghini, Cade Littler, and Tyler Young
- Defensemen: Jake Livanavage, Bennett Zmolek, Abram Wiebe, Keaton Verhoeff, Andrew Strathmann, E.J. Emery, and Sam Laurila
- Goaltenders: Gibson Homer, Jan Špunar, and Zach Sandy
Arizona State's Starting Lineup:
- Forwards: Cruz Lucius, Kyle Smolen, Bennett Schimek, Ty Nash, Sean McGurn, Johnny Waldron, Sam Alfano, Logan Morrell, Noah Powell, Carmelo Crandell, Braxton Whitehead, and Ben Kevan
- Defensemen: Brasen Boser, Joel Kjellberg, Richard Baran, Anthony Dowd, Justin Kipkie, Sam Court, and Tucker Ness
- Goaltenders: Connor Hasley and Samuel Urban
Injury Report:
- UND: Josh Zakreski, David Klee, and Dalton Andrew are out due to injuries. Jayden Jubenvill and Ian Engel are also not in the lineup.
- Arizona State: Cullen Potter and Jack Beck are injured, along with Lincoln Kuehne and Chase Hamm.
Pregame Notes:
- UND forward Cody Croal makes his return after missing four games due to illness. A welcome boost for the Fighting Hawks!
- Arizona State's Kyle Smolen steps into a crucial role, filling the void left by the injured Cullen Potter.
- Gibson Homer, UND's starting goalie, faces a unique challenge against his former team.
- The Sun Devils have been on a roll, winning 9 out of their last 13 games.
- In a previous meeting in November, the Fighting Hawks and Sun Devils split the series.
About the Author:
Schlossman, a seasoned college hockey journalist, has been covering the Grand Forks Herald's beat since 2005. Recognized for his exceptional work, he has been awarded the top beat writer title by the Associated Press Sports Editors multiple times and has also been named the North Dakota sportswriter of the year twice. Schlossman resides in Grand Forks and can be reached at bschlossman@gfherald.com.
Get ready for an action-packed game! Who do you think will come out on top? Share your predictions and thoughts in the comments below! Let's spark some friendly debate!
