Wholin1 and GRussinko, I didn't mean everyone should be picking Union in their top 4. But they are averaging an 11th-place pick right now, something that strikes me as odd for a team who has been looking better in recent years, even if the standings at the end of the season don't particularly reflect it, and for a team who made it to the second round last year. Now, Brown also made it to the second round, but I don't expect anyone (including myself and other Brown fans) to respect them very much, because frankly they don't deserve it. But Union does deserve some respect, and I'm a little puzzled as to why I'm not finding it. I think they have a decent shot to finish anywhere from 4th-11th this year, as the ECAC is pretty tight this year.
Agree - Lehman's recruiting has flown under the radar..he is getting it done without many of the resources of other schools. Losing Vazzano was a tough blow for the squad.BTW Union DID win a playoff series last season and did so in convincing fashion (sorry for the reminder Vic).. I know we don't get much credit, but at least give us that! I would also call two straight quarterfinal appearances good progress for a program that struggled to win 10 games in a season for most of the first 15 years in D-1. ..of course, this and $50 will get you a couple nice seats at the TUC to watch the ECAC finals. Until the Dutch make it to Albany with their skates on, respect will be lacking.
As for this season, U has a lot of firepower returning up front, but has major question marks on defense and in goal (the one area where Leaman has NOT had good recruiting success). If the ??s are answered U will be pretty good and could be a major surprise. If not they could be battling Brom for 12th.