Game Preview: Mankato East Cougars vs. Owatonna Huskies
Thursday, January 9, 2025 – 7:00 PM
Four Seasons Centre, Owatonna, MN
The Cougars enter this game with a 5-8-0 record, showing flashes of strong play but struggling to gain a streak. Offensively, they are led by Jack Hansen (7 goals) and Luke Lebens (12 points). While the Cougars can create scoring opportunities, their power play conversion rate of 10.5% is a glaring weakness.
On defense, Mankato East has allowed 4.00 goals per game, and goaltender Brody Kunst (.883 save percentage) has been tested frequently. If the Cougars are to compete, they’ll need a stronger defensive effort and better discipline to avoid giving Owatonna’s power play chances.
The Huskies sit at 6-6-0 and boast a dynamic offense powered by Andrew Mitchell, who has recorded 15 goals and 27 points this season. Supporting him are Seth Johnson and Zachary Klecker, each with 17 points, making Owatonna a formidable opponent in the offensive zone.
Defensively, the Huskies have allowed 3.42 goals per game, but goalie Garrett Stelter (.880 save percentage) has shown resilience in net. Owatonna’s power play abilities are a strength, operating at 26.7% and a penalty kill at 84.4%.
Owatonna’s high-powered offense gives the Huskies the upper hand in this matchup. While Mankato East has the ability to stay competitive, their defensive issues and lack of power play success may make it difficult to keep up with Owatonna’s firepower. Expect Andrew Mitchell to lead the Huskies to a convincing victory.
Final Score Prediction: Owatonna 5, Mankato East 2
