Game Preview: Breck Mustangs vs. Providence Academy Lions

The Breck Mustangs will face off against the Providence Academy Lions on Tuesday, January 7, at 7:00 PM at the Plymouth Ice Center.

Team Overview

Breck Mustangs (2-7-0)

Breck is coming off a tough 6-3 loss to Blake on January 4. Led by head coach David Maley, the Mustangs are looking for a bounce-back performance. Offensively, they rely on senior captain Garrett Trench, who leads the team with 9 goals and 18 points, and fellow captain Ben Amato, the team’s leader in points with 21.

In the net, goaltender Isaac Nguyen has been tested heavily, posting a 4.33 GAA and .852 save percentage. Breck’s power play is a concern, with a efficiency of just 15.1% and a penalty kill at 60.7%. Improvement in these areas will be critical against a strong Providence Academy squad.

Key to Success: Breck needs to tighten their defensive zone play and capitalize on scoring chances created by their top line.

Providence Academy Lions (8-5-1)

The Lions come into this game on a high after a narrow 3-2 victory over Mound Westonka. Head coach Chris Lewis has his team playing disciplined hockey, with the offense led by Gavin Sattler, who has 10 goals and 18 points. Supporting Sattler are forwards Jesse Varner (15 points) and Eliot Carlson (13 points), giving the Lions depth in scoring.

Goaltender Owen Villagomez has been steady, with a 3.92 GAA and .873 save percentage. The Lions’ power play is converting at an impressive 29.6%, and their penalty kill stands at 68.9%.

Key to Success: Providence Academy must maintain their offensive pressure and leverage their special teams to outpace Breck.

Keys to the Game

1. Power play: Providence Academy holds a clear advantage on special teams. Breck needs to stay disciplined and avoid unnecessary penalties.
2. Goaltending: Both Nguyen and Villagomez will be critical to their teams’ success, and the goaltender who delivers a stronger performance could decide the game.
3. Offensive Depth: While Breck relies heavily on their top players, Providence Academy’s balanced attack may give them the edge in sustained offensive pressure.

Players to Watch

• Breck Mustangs:
  • Garrett Trench (C): The team’s leading goal scorer will need to deliver in key moments.
  • Isaac Nguyen: His ability to make big saves under pressure will be crucial.
• Providence Academy Lions:
  • Gavin Sattler: The Lions’ offensive leader has been a consistent scoring threat.
  • Jesse Varner: A dynamic playmaker who can create opportunities for his teammates.

Prediction

With Breck struggling defensively and on the power play, Providence Academy has a clear advantage heading into this matchup. The Lions’ depth and ability to convert on the power play could be the deciding factors.

Prediction: Providence Academy 5, Breck 3.