For the first time, probably ever, I think that UNO and UM are at least comparable in talent level from the top line down. At least in terms of raw talent. The last time I can remember finding comparable matchups between players was 2007 and then it was on the top 2 lines and our goaltender situation was less than stellar.
So, on that note, I am very excited to see how the two teams match up this weekend. I fear that the big story of the evening will be penalty minutes. UNO hasn't really found a way to maneuver their 6'1/200-pound bodies around without getting a stick between the legs or a pair of arms to the head. Michigan it seems has had similar penalty trouble but more from a lack of discipline (I can't speak from personal observation, it's just what I've read on post-game analyses) but hopefully that won't mire the game too much.
As Streaker has already mentioned, UNO's biggest plus is that they are really, really good at crashing the net and burying rebounds (which, as a long-time fan, is something new to us) -- our biggest weakness that I've seen is that we allow far too many odd-man rushes and our puck control along the boards has given us headaches (i.e. popping onto a wide open opponent's stick in front of the net) -- both goaltenders could steal the game either night if these trends continue. It'll likely be a high-scoring affair.
Players to watch out for...
Joey Martin and Rich Purslow -- Not going to be a new set of names for Michigan fans but this year they are reminding me a bit of Hoggan/Brisson circa 2001 when it comes to scoring punch.
Matt White -- jokingly called 'The Messiah' here because of how good he's supposed to be, Funny thing though, he might actually be THAT good. He's averaged at least a point a game so far which is pretty impressive for a freshman.
Alex Hudson and Terry Broadhurst - I like to think of these guys as our aces in the hole. When either player is having a good night, he's usually having a REALLY good night. Hudson has been the hero as of late with the Friday game in Minn. and the game a couple weeks ago now against RIT. Broadhurst has had countless breakaways to the net that just haven't capitalized. Still, he's also averaging at least one point a game so - not bad.
Michael Young - He's been kicked out of the game twice this year for contact to the head penalties but has a +6
Andrej Sustr - 6'8 and 200 lbs. - he's got potential to be a Zdeno Chara like player for us, and in the NHL at some point.
Eric Olimb - A name that's highly touted in some circles but more of a walk softly and carry a big stick kind of guy. As a defenseman he's provided 6 assists and is +7; look for him to be on the ice with Purslow/White/Martin
Also look out for Zahn Raubenheimer -- for those that remember Alex Nikiforuk, he's like Alex but with size to match his energy.
That's my analysis which I spent way too much writing but yeah, hoping for some good games this weekend!
