Game Preview: Forest Lake Rangers vs. Mounds View Mustangs
Thursday, January 9, 2025 – 7:00 PM
TCO Sports Garden, Vadnais Heights, MN
The Rangers (6-7-0) are coming off a convincing 6-0 win over Cambridge-Isanti, showcasing their balanced scoring and strong defense. Maverick McKinnon leads the offensive charge with 12 goals and 27 points, while Colton Horak and Blake Jacobson provide more scoring opportunities.
Goaltender Zachary Schnabel has been solid this season, boasting an .881 save percentage and a 3.31 goals-against average. The Rangers will look to build on their power play (28.8%) and penalty kill (81.2%) efficiency to dominate play.
The Mustangs (2-11-0) are struggling to find consistency, with their latest game being a 7-0 loss to Champlin Park. Despite their record, Mitchell Olson has been a bright spot with 8 goals and 13 points, supported by Russ Eck and Toby Walseth.
Defensively, Mounds View has faced challenges, allowing 5.31 goals per game. Goalie Sam Moen has been a workhorse, making key saves, but his .893 save percentage reflects the defensive breakdowns in front of him.
Forest Lake enters this game as the clear favorite, with their balanced attack expected to give them the upper hand. Mounds View will need a disciplined defensive effort and timely scoring to stay competitive, but their recent struggles suggest they may have a tough time keeping pace with the Rangers.
Final Score Prediction: Forest Lake 5, Mounds View 1
