Re: 2009-2010 UNH Wildcats Season
Some years that come to mind are 06/07 when they were picked fourth. Then you will say, "we'll, they lost in the first round of the NCAA's, that was not better then expected. The 06/07 team overperformed, won the hockey east regular season title, lost in the hockey east final game, and were a 1 seed in the NCAA's. And if you strictly base it on the NCAA's, well then umile had the team overperform just last year.
That 06-07 team was helped by getting a MONSTER sophomore year out of Trevor Smith, who would end up bolting for the AHL (where he's stayed) after losing to Miami in the NCAA's (in Manchester).
Now, I say to myself, who on this team is ready to have a year like Smith did in 06-07? There are a lot of names that stick out.
1. Mike Sislo - Could say last year was his "Coming out year" and it certainly helped playing on JVR's line. However, I think he's actually a very talented scorer, and if he and Butler play on the same line, they could put a lot of pucks in the net.
2. Steve Moses - I don't know what it was about this kid, but he always seemed to hustle his way into plays last year. That pays off, since hustle tends to create opportunities.
3. Mike Borisenok - Didn't play much in the second half of last year, but the kid has talent. Give him a full season, and he might surprise.
4. Paul Thompson - I'll admit, I'm a homer on this call. He's from my hometown. But I still remember the first half of his freshman season, where it seemed like he was trying to prove that he belonged, and ended up scoring a boatload of goals before dropping off the radar. He has something to prove again, and if he keeps grinding and fighting down low, he'll get chances to put the puck in the net again.
Those are my guys to watch for this season. I think if any, or preferably all of them, have breakout years, then UNH could be a serious contender.
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