Hey there hockey fans! Get ready for an action-packed weekend as No. 12 Cornell men’s hockey team kicks off their season with a thrilling home-and-home series against No. 11 University of Minnesota Duluth. These two teams faced off last season in Duluth, and unfortunately, the Red lost both games. But this time, they’re determined to turn the tables and come out on top!
Minnesota Duluth is arriving in Ithaca with an impressive unbeaten record of five games. They’ve been on fire, especially on the power play, with 11 goals and a conversion rate of 44 percent, which is the second best in the nation. But don’t worry, Coach Mike Schafer is confident in his team’s discipline and ability to handle the pressure.
Last year, when the Red faced the Bulldogs, they were dealing with a team that was hungry for a win after a four-game losing streak. But this year, it’s a different story. Duluth hasn’t lost a single game yet, so they’ll be coming into Lynah Rink with a lot of confidence. It’s going to be an intense battle between two highly ranked teams!
Playing at home in the season opener brings a whole new level of excitement for the Cornell team. The atmosphere at Lynah Rink is electric, with passionate fans cheering them on. But they need to stay focused and avoid unnecessary penalties, especially with Duluth’s impressive power play. Coach Schafer emphasizes the importance of blocking shots and limiting the Bulldogs’ opportunities.
This matchup is not just about rankings and wins. It’s a chance for the relatively new and young Cornell team to prove themselves against some of the best teams in the country. It’s a test of their skills, teamwork, and determination.
So mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable weekend of hockey! The puck drops at 7pm for both games, and you can catch all the action on ESPN+. Let’s go Big Red!