Game Preview: Woodbury Royals vs. St. Paul Highland Park Scots

Introduction

The Woodbury Royals (3-6-0) face off against the St. Paul Highland Park Scots (3-5-0) in a matchup that showcases two teams with contrasting strengths. This game provides a chance for each side to gain momentum as they look to climb their respective conference standings.


Team Overview

Woodbury Royals

  • Record: 3-6-0
  • Goals Per Game (GPG): 3.22
  • Goals Allowed Per Game (GAPG): 3.44
  • Power Play Percentage (PP%): 25.6%
  • Penalty Kill Percentage (PK%): 82.6%

The Royals are led offensively by Tommy Dittrich (#19), who has recorded 8 goals in just 9 games. Supporting him are Jack Oleson (#9) with 10 points and John Eschweiler (#20), who leads the team with 11 points. Goaltender Michael Pietruszewski (#30) has shown flashes of brilliance, with a 3.04 GAA and .884 save percentage, but consistency remains key.


St. Paul Highland Park Scots

  • Record: 3-5-0
  • Goals Per Game (GPG): 3.00
  • Goals Allowed Per Game (GAPG): 3.50
  • Power Play Percentage (PP%): 23.1%
  • Penalty Kill Percentage (PK%): 80.6%

The Scots’ offense is driven by Leo Kirsch (#41), who has tallied 7 goals and 9 points in 8 games. Isaac Johnson (#54) and Will Bitenc (#8) provide additional scoring depth, each with 7 points. In net, Calum Axelson (#29) boasts a .895 save percentage, which has kept the Scots competitive in tight games.


Key Players to Watch

Woodbury Royals

  • Tommy Dittrich (#19): A natural goal scorer with 4 power-play goals this season.
  • Jack Oleson (#9): A versatile forward capable of contributing at both ends of the ice.
  • Michael Pietruszewski (#30): Will need a strong performance in goal to neutralize the Scots’ top scorers.

St. Paul Highland Park Scots

  • Leo Kirsch (#41): A dynamic offensive threat who leads the team in both goals and points.
  • Isaac Johnson (#54): A key playmaker with 5 assists so far this season.
  • Calum Axelson (#29): Reliable in net, he must maintain composure against the Royals’ offensive push.

Team Comparison

Category Woodbury Royals St. Paul Highland Park Scots
Goals Per Game (GPG) 3.22 3.00
Goals Allowed Per Game 3.44 3.50
Power Play Percentage 25.6% 23.1%
Penalty Kill Percentage 82.6% 80.6%

Standings Impact

Both teams sit in the lower half of their respective conferences, making this game a critical opportunity to build momentum. A win for either side could signal a turning point as they approach the midpoint of the season.


Prediction

The Royals’ slightly higher scoring efficiency and stronger penalty kill give them an edge on paper. However, the Scots’ top-line production and Axelson’s steady goaltending could make this a close game.

Predicted Outcome: Woodbury 4, St. Paul Highland Park 3

The game is expected to be closely contested, with special teams and goaltending likely to determine the outcome.