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  • The MCHA Thread

    The MCHA needs its own thread and I expect that it will have a couple of interesting stories to tell this season. I am expecting to see a bit more parity this year between the top four or five teams. Unlike past seasons, it is a bit more difficult to predict where in the standings the teams will separate from or bunch up with one another. A couple of random inital thoughts.

    1. Adrian - rebuilding or reloading? How will the goaltending situation work out? As expected, a solid looking crop of freshmen coming in (at least on paper). Will chemistry be an issue early? The UWSP weekend should be great hockey. The Bulldogs still have a big psychological edge.

    2. MSOE - the favorite? a worthy favorite? They bring back a ton and have room to move forward. The Raiders always seem to find good kids so I am sure this class will have some gems. I am not wild about their NC schedule at all. Are they looking to join the MIAC?

    3. Marian - they return more than Adrian but less than MSOE. I expect they will continue to be dangerous. Will their NC success continue? SNC at home on the big sheet should be interesting. Hull will be missed.

    4. Lawrence - moving up or holding steady at 4th-ish? I suspect they are more likely to move up in the standings than down. How is the goaltending situation going to play out? A big recruiting class for a small school. Gustavus at home could be interesting.

    5. Northland - continued improvement? NC success? If they can continue to avoid the transfer exodus they should hold steady or be better.

    6. Finlandia - moving back up after the coaching change? A full year to recruit should certainly help. Why only four NC games? The Lions are almost guaranteed to be better this year.

    7. Lake - the late coaching change certainly doesn't help the cause, but it looks like they were able to land more than a handful of kids. Can the freshmen contribute from day one? Lake is starting to feel like a forever young squad. East coast trip should be interesting. Nice coaching hire.

    8. Concordia - every year I expect them to be more competitive within the conference. Is this the year? I have no clue what is going on with recruiting. Is a coaching change in the works?????

  • #2
    Re: The MCHA Thread

    It's very cool to watch this conference get better and better each season.

    I think Lake will finish higher than 7th, and you could possibly swap Marian and MSOE.

    The SNC women play on an Olympic sheet, and I think the men would have access to it for practice the week of the Thanksgiving tournament if they choose.

    Comment


    • #3
      Re: The MCHA Thread

      I think that it will be MSOE and Marian fighting it out for the top spot in the league. MSOE returns everyone important from last year, Marian returns a lot and also has a good recruiting class (Hull will definitely be missed). The 2 games between these teams could decide the top seed. Adrian will be good, but I don't buy the psychological argument (and they have to play Marian on the Olympic sheet).

      Northland is recruiting well from the SIJHL - this league is uderrated and has some good hockey players. Perrier should be able to step in and replace their senior goaltender.

      Can't wait for the puck to drop on this season!

      Comment


      • #4
        Re: The MCHA Thread

        I hereby reserve judgement on the top 3 until I see Adrian play the U-18 team in late October. I've got a rough idea, but I need to see a couple things first.

        From 4-8:
        4) Lawrence
        5) Northland
        6) Lake Forest
        7) Finlandia
        8) Concordia

        As bad as Finlandia was last year (and yes, they were horrid), if Lake Forest continues to focus on bringing in prep schoolers, I suspect that Finlandia will pass them in short order by next season, or sooner.

        I'm not brave enough yet to pick Northland 4th in this conference, but they are clearly the most improved team in the MCHA the last three years.

        As for Concordia, I don't know. I figured they'd improve much more rapidly than Northland did. I'm very much surprised by this turn of event.

        I think this year we're going to find out just how far the league has improved since Adrian came in and obliterated everyone the last four years, and delivered the AQ to the league in the process. Adrian is not a complete rebuild, but this appears to be as open as the conference has been since December 2007.
        Last edited by Hammer; 09-22-2011, 07:52 PM.
        FERRIS STATE UNIVERSITY: 2012 FROZEN FOUR


        God, that was fun...

        Comment


        • #5
          Re: The MCHA Thread

          Originally posted by Hammer View Post
          I hereby reserve judgement on the top 3 until I see Adrian play the U-18 team in late October. I've got a rough idea, but I need to see a couple things first.

          From 4-8:
          4) Lawrence
          5) Northland
          6) Lake Forest
          7) Finlandia
          8) Concordia

          As bad as Finlandia was last year (and yes, they were horrid), if Lake Forest continues to focus on bringing in prep schoolers, I suspect that Finlandia will pass them in short order by next season, or sooner.

          I'm not brave enough yet to pick Northland 4th in this conference, but they are clearly the most improved team in the MCHA the last three years.

          As for Concordia, I don't know. I figured they'd improve much more rapidly than Northland did. I'm very much surprised by this turn of event.

          I think this year we're going to find out just how far the league has improved since Adrian came in and obliterated everyone the last four years, and delivered the AQ to the league in the process. Adrian is not a complete rebuild, but this appears to be as open as the conference has been since December 2007.
          I honestly think Finlandia will be better and the team will continue to get better. I think last season's nightmare had less to do with support for the program and more to do with the coaching change and the timing of the coaching change. Even the best coaches need time to recruit players they like and who fit their program. It Mel at Tech starts cutting guys, I wonder if any will trickle down to Finlandia. I think Lake will be going through a similar process this year. From what I have heard, McKelvie is highly regarded in the coaching community. I think he will get Lake back on track. It will take more than one year, but I think he will get them there in the end. I fully expect him to go after junior kids given his recruiting work as a D1 assistant.

          Northland's issues in the past have had less to do with recruiting and more to do with holding onto kids. I think the better they get, the easier it will be to retain kids. Lawrence is getting better, so Northland will have their work cut out for them if they want to move up.

          Comment


          • #6
            Re: The MCHA Thread

            Due to the imbalance of the MCHA schedule it is easier to pick the teams by their division. The way I see it the North division teams are in a very top heavy division, and the South division is more close to parity.

            North-
            1) MSOE - The most balanced team. They have a very good offense, a solid defense, and the best goalie .
            2) Adrian- Still a very strong offense, a somewhat rebuilt defense, and we'll need some time to see how the tenders pan out.
            3) Concordia, WI- Offense is young with 10 of 12 top scorers last year being underclassmen. The defense has 5 returners
            that logged 22+games last year. The netminder is an experienced Senior.
            4) Lake Forest- They lost their top tender, their top scorer, and their top defenseman all of whom would of been Juniors.
            The offense's top 4 returning forwards are basically 'assist' men totalling 15G and 35A in 27 games last year. The
            defense has 5 reliable returners. The netminders are capable, but injury prone.

            South-
            1) Marian- Potent offense, a solid defense, and the best goalie tandem in the MCHA.
            2) Lawrence- The offense is solid with several good returners, LFC's leading scorer , and a Swedish recruit. The defense is experienced with 5 vets.
            The net will be capably covered by two vets and two recruits.
            3) Northland- The offense is good, but top heavy. The top 3 returning scorers were the only guys to be in the MCHA top 40. The defense has
            experience, but will probably have to rely on a rookie in net. The returning goalers haven't logged any significant game time over the last
            two seasons.
            4) Findlandia- Another young offense that now has 5 of their top 8 scorers from last year as Sophs. They have 8 defensive vets so experience is
            there, but they must step it up or problems will continue. The netminders have years , but not much time on the clock
            Last edited by MW49; 09-23-2011, 02:02 AM.
            2011-2012 NCHAMIACMCHA PICK'EM CHAMPION
            2012-2013 NCHAMIACMCHA PICK'EM 2ND PLACE
            THE NCHA -ADRIAN-AURORA-CONCORDIA (WI)-FINLANDIA-LAKE FOREST-LAWRENCE-MARIAN-MSOE-NORTHLAND-ST. NORBERT-ST. SCHOLASTICA

            Comment


            • #7
              Re: The MCHA Thread

              The MCHA has clearly established a healthy new identity for itself. The 20 game conference schedule that I once considered restrictive, isn't looking too shabby. There is probably more excitement and anticipation for this conference, and this season,.. than any that preceeded it. Great discussion and commentary by all. Hope this continues as the season progresses.


              1) Adrian ....until someone dethrones them, they remain on top. Sixteen new faces listed in the program....so concerns about goaltending or team chemistry may be valid in the early going....however, plenty of games on the schedule with which to experiment in the LAB. I expect to see a very different team in terms of size (smaller), speed (faster) and balance (scoring) . And in case anyone perceives this as a bunch of kinder, gentler Bulldog puppies, I would add that I expect to see a very similar team in terms of their delight for disciplined physical play......so won't that be fun ?

              2) MSOE.....under performed to close out last season. Conference Player of the Year was in attendance to accept his award .....but then didn't show up to play the next day and COTY had to pull him in the 3rd period. They have a solid line-up returning and some nice recruits. Actually, I like their N/C schedule. It's the type of schedule that a team like MSOE needs...., to build confidence. If they have less than 4 losses with that schedule....I'd prefer not to have to meet them in the playoffs........unless of course Toomey wins POTY !

              3) Marian...... Dubetz has All American potential and I expect he will lead this team....that is if Wise can find anyone who can skate with him. A pretty good supporting cast of players including a decent tandem in net. The schedule is loaded with tough games early, but as for the home stretch ...not so much. They should have great momentum down the stretch, but I'd like their chances better if they could play their schedule backwards.

              4) Lawrence......will compete every night ........and probably win a couple of upsets along the way. While they appear to have closed the gap , I'm afraid it's not enough to crack the top 3.

              5) Lake Forest.......forrresters aveh a nu coach with an altitude + recroots sharp as a fornax.(punny) = sea u ni placido loozers.

              6) Finlandia .........In case you haven't noticed Michigan based teams named the LIONS are restoring their ROAR. A new coach has a work in progress in this rather remote northern area, rich with hockey tradition and talent,.... not to mention moose hunters. I'm thinking this program may wind up being the most improved in 2011-12, but not enough to challenge the top.

              7) Northland.......A lot of turnover on this roster and too many holes to fill to be a consistent competitive program. My choice at 7th may be unfair ....it 's probably the memories of a lot of really ugly games at Adrian that linger.

              8) Concordia (Wis.)......Tony Hrkac: a Hobey Baker winner.....an NHL vet who Don Cherry honoured with membership in the famed Black Aces,........and from what I've been told he's just a great person. What makes no sense to me ..... 5th season >> 8-89-7. If this program had any potential to improve .....we should have seen it by now.
              Last edited by NorthernLite; 09-23-2011, 04:36 PM.

              Comment


              • #8
                Re: The MCHA Thread

                Originally posted by NorthernLite View Post
                The MCHA has clearly established a healthy new identity for itself. The 20 game conference schedule that I once considered restrictive, isn't looking too shabby. There is probably more excitement and anticipation for this conference, and this season,.. than any that preceeded it. Great discussion and commentary by all. Hope this continues as the season progresses.


                1) Adrian ....until someone dethrones them, they remain on top. Sixteen new faces listed in the program....so concerns about goaltending or team chemistry may be valid in the early going....however, plenty of games on the schedule with which to experiment in the LAB. I expect to see a very different team in terms of size (smaller), speed (faster) and balance (scoring) . And in case anyone perceives this as a bunch of kinder, gentler Bulldog puppies, I would add that I expect to see a very similar team in terms of their delight for disciplined physical play......so won't that be fun ?

                2) MSOE.....under performed to close out last season. Conference Player of the Year was in attendance to accept his award .....but then didn't show up to play the next day and COTY had to pull him in the 3rd period. They have a solid line-up returning and some nice recruits. Actually, I like their N/C schedule. It's the type of schedule that a team like MSOE needs...., to build confidence. If they have less than 4 losses with that schedule....I'd prefer not to have to meet them in the playoffs........unless of course Toomey wins POTY !

                3) Marian...... Dubetz has All American potential and I expect he will lead this team....that is if Wise can find anyone who can skate with him. A pretty good supporting cast of players including a decent tandem in net. The schedule is loaded with tough games early, but as for the home stretch ...not so much. They should have great momentum down the stretch, but I'd like their chances better if they could play their schedule backwards.

                4) Lawrence......will compete every night ........and probably win a couple of upsets along the way. While they appear to have closed the gap , I'm afraid it's not enough to crack the top 3.

                5) Lake Forest.......forrresters aveh a nu coach with an altitude + recroots sharp as a fornax.(punny) = sea u ni placido loozers.

                6) Finlandia .........In case you haven't noticed Michigan based teams named the LIONS are restoring their ROAR. A new coach has a work in progress in this rather remote northern area, rich with hockey tradition and talent,.... not to mention moose hunters. I'm thinking this program may wind up being the most improved in 2011-12, but not enough to challenge the top.

                7) Northland.......A lot of turnover on this roster and too many holes to fill to be a consistent competitive program. My choice at 7th may be unfair ....it 's probably the memories of a lot of really ugly games at Adrian that linger.

                8) Concordia (Wis.)......Tony Hrkac: a Hobey Baker winner.....an NHL vet who Don Cherry honoured with membership in the famed Black Aces,........and from what I've been told he's just a great person. What makes no sense to me ..... 5th season >> 8-89-7. If this program had any potential to improve .....we should have seen it by now.
                I think it is very fair to question MSOE's NC schedule apart from Hamline. It is probably only the fifth hardest NC schedule in the conference. Lawrence, Marian and Adrian are not afraid to play tough NC schedules, so why is MSOE playing the bottom half of the MIAC table?

                Comment


                • #9
                  Re: The MCHA Thread

                  Originally posted by AVFC View Post
                  I think it is very fair to question MSOE's NC schedule apart from Hamline. It is probably only the fifth hardest NC schedule in the conference. Lawrence, Marian and Adrian are not afraid to play tough NC schedules, so why is MSOE playing the bottom half of the MIAC table?
                  Certainly it's fair to question MSOE's N/C schedule. Most, including myself would agree that their chosen opponents aren't likely to help them in strength of schedule discussions, however it's pretty much a foregone conclusion that the only MCHA team that will qualify for a spot in the tournament will be the conference champion. I'm quite sure MSOE aren't afraid to load up on tougher opponents, but this schedule is one that affords them the opportunity to prepare themselves and build confidence/momentum with victories. I think this N/C schedule and the 20 game MCHA schedule should provide plenty of tough games to prepare them for what follows.

                  How would you rate a N/C schedule that included:
                  Concordia, Wis.
                  Lawrence
                  Marian
                  St. Olaf
                  Gustavis Adolphus
                  St. Mary's
                  Augsburg

                  Guess who has lined up these opponents ? Would you question their scheduling ?
                  Last edited by NorthernLite; 09-26-2011, 07:00 PM.

                  Comment


                  • #10
                    Originally posted by NorthernLite View Post
                    Certainly it's fair to question MSOE's N/C schedule. Most, including myself would agree that their chosen opponents aren't likely to help them in strength of schedule discussions, however it's pretty much a foregone conclusion that the only MCHA team that will qualify for a spot in the tournament will be the conference champion. I'm quite sure MSOE aren't afraid to load up on tougher opponents, but this schedule is one that affords them the opportunity to prepare themselves and build confidence/momentum with victories. I think this N/C schedule and the 20 game MCHA schedule should provide plenty of tough games to prepare them for what follows.

                    How would you rate a N/C schedule that included:
                    Concordia, Wis.
                    Lawrence
                    Marian
                    St. Olaf
                    Gustavis Adolphus
                    St. Mary's
                    Augsburg

                    Guess who has lined up these opponents ? Would you question their scheduling ?
                    From my understanding the NCHA-MIAC interlock the opponents rotate around. St. Norbert has played in that turkey tourny with Lawrence and Marian for several years. Not much flexibility there for SNC, which did have to play Hamline the last two years.

                    Comment


                    • #11
                      Re: The MCHA Thread

                      Originally posted by NorthernLite View Post
                      Certainly it's fair to question MSOE's N/C schedule. Most, including myself would agree that their chosen opponents aren't likely to help them in strength of schedule discussions, however it's pretty much a foregone conclusion that the only MCHA team that will qualify for a spot in the tournament will be the conference champion. I'm quite sure MSOE aren't afraid to load up on tougher opponents, but this schedule is one that affords them the opportunity to prepare themselves and build confidence/momentum with victories. I think this N/C schedule and the 20 game MCHA schedule should provide plenty of tough games to prepare them for what follows.

                      How would you rate a N/C schedule that included:
                      Concordia, Wis.
                      Lawrence
                      Marian
                      St. Olaf
                      Gustavis Adolphus
                      St. Mary's
                      Augsburg

                      Guess who has lined up these opponents ? Would you question their scheduling ?
                      I agree with what you are saying about MSOE.

                      However, SNC's strength of schedule rating comes from their conference schedule, not who they play outside the NCHA. That's still a big difference between the MCHA and NCHA.

                      Comment


                      • #12
                        Re: The MCHA Thread

                        Originally posted by Sir Nubs View Post
                        From my understanding the NCHA-MIAC interlock the opponents rotate around. St. Norbert has played in that turkey tourny with Lawrence and Marian for several years. Not much flexibility there for SNC, which did have to play Hamline the last two years.
                        Why so defensive ? SNC has every bit as much flexibility, and faces the same challenges scheduling N/C games as any other DIII program.

                        There are good reasons why SNC has scheduled these teams. (i.e. convenience,costs, strong relationships, reciprical arrangements, the opportunity to asses depth, perhaps teams they prefer to meet are unavailable etc...)
                        Last edited by NorthernLite; 09-27-2011, 09:48 AM.

                        Comment


                        • #13
                          Re: The MCHA Thread

                          Originally posted by altazo View Post
                          I agree with what you are saying about MSOE.

                          However, SNC's strength of schedule rating comes from their conference schedule, not who they play outside the NCHA. That's still a big difference between the MCHA and NCHA.
                          Exactly. If the conference is strong, the members have a remote chance of scoring an at large bid. N/C schedules are of less consequence to teams like SNC. They are challenged every time they lace them up for a conference game, and they have years of tournament experience to draw from when it comes to crunch time.

                          The MCHA aren't there yet. An at large bid isn't in the cards ...... so N/C opponents are chosen on the basis of who is available, and what each coach believes will best prepare their team to win the conference. The question then becomes;- Is the MCHA strong enough at the top prepare it's champion for tournament success ? Last year the answer was yes.
                          Last edited by NorthernLite; 09-27-2011, 09:45 AM.

                          Comment


                          • #14
                            Originally posted by NorthernLite View Post
                            Why so defensive ? SNC has every bit as much flexibility, and faces the same challeges scheduling N/C games as any other DIII program.

                            There are good reasons why SNC has scheduled these teams. (i.e. convenience,costs, strong relationships, reciprical arrangements, the opportunity to asses depth, perhaps teams they prefer to meet are unavailable etc...)
                            Not being defensive at all, just pointing out a fact. Besides, SNC has 18 conference games (and no cupcakes to be found in that entire 18) and 4 interlock games with the MIAC that are predetermined on a rotating basis. So that leaves three games left to schedule. Two are in the annual Thanksgiving tourny. That leaves one game, which it looks this year is a game to get ready for an important league series right off the bat. Perhaps that is too difficult a sequence for you to understand.

                            Comment


                            • #15
                              Re: The MCHA Thread

                              Regardless of SNC's NC schedule, the last two seasons they seem to have been well enough prepared to end Adrian's season, eh?

                              Comment

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