The Owatonna Huskies will host the Dodge County Wildcats on Tuesday, January 7, at 7:00 PM at the Four Seasons Centre in Owatonna.
Team Overview
Owatonna Huskies (6-5-0, 3-1-0 Big 9 Conference)
The Huskies, led by Head Coach Dennis Will, are looking to recover from a tough 8-2 loss to Rochester Century/JM. Despite the setback, Owatonna has a strong offensive attack, averaging 4.36 goals per game. They also have a reliable penalty kill at 83.3%.
The Huskies’ offense is anchored by Andrew Mitchell, who leads the team with 14 goals and 26 points. Along with Zachary Klecker (11 goals, 17 points) and Zachary Knott (15 points). In net, Garrett Stelter has been solid, with a 3.06 GAA and .886 save percentage, and will be crucial in containing Dodge County’s scorers.
Key Strength: Offensive depth, led by Mitchell, and a disciplined penalty kill that can stifle opponents.
Dodge County Wildcats (4-6-0, Independent)
The Wildcats are coming off a 5-1 loss to Chisago Lakes but remain a dangerous team offensively, averaging 4.40 goals per game. However, their defense has struggled, allowing 4.30 goals per game, and their penalty kill sits at 78.4%.
The Wildcats are powered by Brett Ludvigsen, who has 15 goals and 31 points this season. Supporting him are Gabe Coshenet (11 goals, 15 points) and Camryn Koch (12 points). Goaltender Wes Wagner has faced a heavy workload, posting a 3.94 GAA and .871 save percentage, and will need a strong performance to keep the Huskies at bay.
Key Strength: High-end talent in Ludvigsen and Coshenet, capable of capitalizing on scoring opportunities.
Owatonna’s penalty kill (83.3%) will be tested against Dodge County’s power play, which converts at 30.6%.
Owatonna’s better defensive structure and home-ice advantage may give them the edge. Expect a close, high-scoring game.
Prediction: Owatonna 5, Dodge County 4.
