The River Lakes Stars travel to face the Willmar Cardinals on Tuesday, January 7, at 6:00 PM in a Central Lakes Conference game.
River Lakes Stars (8-2-2, 2-1-2 Central Lakes Conference)
The Stars, led by Head Coach Zach Johnson, are coming off a thrilling 5-4 overtime win against Breckenridge/Wahpeton. With an impressive 4.33 goals per game and an 88.9% penalty kill, the Stars are capable of competing in tight games. Despite allowing 3.83 goals per game.
Blake Schultz leads the Stars offensively, with 15 goals and 27 points, while Jaiken Mackedanz and Parker Welz provide additional scoring depth. Goaltender William Robinson has faced challenges, posting a 3.98 GAA and .842 save percentage, but has managed to deliver when it matters.
Key Strength: A deep offensive lineup and a disciplined penalty kill that limits opponents’ chances.
Willmar Cardinals (5-8-0, 0-4-0 Central Lakes Conference)
The Cardinals, under veteran Head Coach Jamie Hagen, suffered a 5-4 overtime loss to Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato in their last game. Willmar’s offense averages 2.92 goals per game, led by standout forward Gibson Horyza, who has tallied 10 goals and 16 points. However, their defense has struggled, allowing 5.15 goals per game, and their penalty kill (71.0%) has been inconsistent.
Luke Larson (14 points) and Aden Jacobson (8 goals) provide additional scoring options, but goaltender Eli Ewert has faced a heavy workload, with a 5.07 GAA and .864 save percentage. The Cardinals will need a solid team effort to compete with River Lakes.
Key Strength: Top-line talent with players like Horyza and Larson who can capitalize on scoring opportunities.
River Lakes’ strong penalty kill (88.9%) and Willmar’s struggling power play (18.6%) make penalties a potential deciding factor.
Willmar’s top players will put up a fight, River Lakes’ balanced attack and superior special teams give them the edge.
Prediction: River Lakes 5, Willmar 2.
