Game Preview: Forest Lake vs. Chisago Lakes

Date/Time: Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at 1:00 PM CST
Location: Chisago Lakes Ice Arena, Lindstrom

Forest Lake Overview

The Forest Lake Rangers enter this game with a 4-6 record and sit near the bottom of the Suburban East Conference standings. However, they are coming off a dominant 13-0 victory against Northern Edge.

Leading the Rangers is Maverick McKinnon, who has tallied 18 points (7G, 11A) this season. He is supported by Colton Horak with 15 points and Nate Peterson with 11 points, providing a solid offensive core. Goaltender Zachary Schnabel has been steady in net, posting a 3.49 GAA and a .872 save percentage.

In the Suburban East Conference, Forest Lake currently ranks eighth with a 1-4-0 conference record, scoring 12 goals while allowing 24 in conference play.

Chisago Lakes Overview

The Chisago Lakes Wildcats hold a strong 5-3-1 overall record and sit atop the Mississippi 8 Conference with a 4-1-0 conference record. They are eager to bounce back after a 4-2 loss to Hudson (Wis.), where late-game efforts fell short.

The Wildcats’ offense is powered by Max Koch, who has recorded 12 points (4G, 8A), and Jacob Kletti with 11 points (5G, 6A). Additionally, Austin Slettom has contributed 10 points (5G, 5A), providing depth to their attack. On the defensive end, Brett Hanson has been reliable with a 1.67 GAA and a .857 save percentage.

Chisago Lakes has excelled on special teams, with a penalty kill operating at 86.2%, which could be critical against a Forest Lake team with a power-play conversion rate of 21.4%.

Key Matchups

McKinnon vs. Chisago Defense: Maverick McKinnon’s playmaking ability will be critical for Forest Lake. Chisago Lakes’ defenders need to neutralize his influence to keep the game under control.
Special Teams Battle: Chisago Lakes boasts an effective penalty kill, while Forest Lake has found success on the power play. The winner of this matchup could gain a significant edge.
Goaltending Duel: Forest Lake’s Schnabel and Chisago Lakes’ Hanson will both face high shot volumes. Their ability to make key saves will be pivotal.

Conference Standings

Suburban East Conference

White Bear Lake (5-0-0, 10 PTS)
Stillwater (4-0-0, 8 PTS)
Forest Lake (1-4-0, 2 PTS)

Mississippi 8 Conference

Chisago Lakes (4-1-0, 12 PTS)
Monticello (4-0-0, 8 PTS)

Prediction

Both teams bring momentum and capable rosters to this matchup. Forest Lake’s recent offensive explosion gives them confidence, but Chisago Lakes’ consistent play and strong special teams could tip the balance in their favor.

Final Score Prediction: Chisago Lakes 5, Forest Lake 3.