You're probably right about Mercyhurst and their likely invite to the NCAA dance. Usually they play a pretty tough NC schedule...very tough a few times so their place in the field of eight was justified. Not really as tough a NC schedule in 2011-2012...Cornell three times, BC...after that just Quinni and Providence who aren't pushovers and might give the Lakers a challenge. If they stumble at all with that schedule they could be in trouble. Also agree the NCAA will likely continue to attempt to facilitate a non WCHA champion with their tournament pairings shenanigans. The selection committee will have fits when UND is also top eight.