Game Preview: Duluth Marshall Hilltoppers vs. Greenway Raiders – January 14, 2025
Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 6:00 PM,
Hodgins-Berardo Arena, Coleraine, MN
The Duluth Marshall Hilltoppers (8-5-2) are coming off a tough 2-5 loss to Northern Lakes and will be looking to bounce back in this matchup against Greenway. While their offense has been solid, averaging 4.13 goals per game, their defense has been inconsistent, giving up 2.47 goals per contest. Bennett Scissons has been the key offensive driver, leading the team with 15 goals and 28 points. Alongside him, players like Kyler Black (23 points) and Benson Peterson (17 points) provide plenty of scoring depth.
In goal, Landon Wheeler has been solid with a 2.30 GAA and a .920 save percentage, giving the Hilltoppers a reliable presence in net. However, they will need to tighten up defensively to avoid another high-scoring game and stay competitive in this matchup.
Despite their strong offense, Duluth Marshall will need to up their defensive coverage, they’ve also struggled with a penalty kill percentage of just 76.5%. If the Hilltoppers can execute at even strength and avoid costly penalties, they should be in a good position to challenge Greenway.
Key Players:
The Greenway Raiders (5-6-0) have had a tough season, but they’re coming off a hard-fought 2-1 victory over North Shore. Despite the win, their offense has been a challenge, averaging just 1.36 goals per game, one of the lowest marks in the Iron Range Conference. Hayden Clow (6 goals) and Max Gangl (9 points) lead the charge offensively, but the Raiders will need to work harder to compete with higher-scoring teams like Duluth Marshall.
Defensively, Greenway has been solid, with Blayne Kelly posting a 2.93 GAA and a .915 save percentage. However, their penalty kill has been an issue, operating at just 73.1%, which could be a factor against a powerful Duluth Marshall power play that runs at 23.1%.
Greenway has struggled to find a rhythm this season, but they’re capable of making things difficult for opponents with their tough, gritty play. To keep this game competitive, they’ll need to limit turnovers, create more scoring opportunities, and stay disciplined.
Key Players:
