Duluth East: (4-22-0) Searching for Consistency
The Greyhounds are facing a difficult season, struggling with an offense that averages just 2.08 goals per game and a defense that gives up 5.19 goals per game. Caden Cole (10 goals, 25 points) has been the team’s leader on offense, while Kyle Peterson (5 goals, 15 points) and Marccus Anttila (5 goals, 14 points) have been contributing where they can. Despite their offensive efforts, Duluth East has faced consistency issues, especially defensively.
Goaltender Nolan Nygaard (4.58 GAA, .878 SV%) has faced a lot of pressure this season, and the Greyhounds will need him to be at his best against the high-powered Rock Ridge offense. With an average of over 5 goals allowed per game, Duluth East’s defense will be tested by Rock Ridge’s offensive depth and speed. The Greyhounds’ penalty kill (69.7%) has struggled to stop opposing power plays.
Rock Ridge: (20-3-2) One of the State’s Top Teams
Rock Ridge enters the game as one of the top teams in the state with a record of 20-3-2. The Wolverines have been dominating on both ends of the ice, averaging 4.52 goals per game while allowing just 2.36 goals per game. Their balanced offense is led by Grady Dimberio (26 goals, 44 points) and Caz Carlson (22 goals, 47 points), two of the most dangerous players in the section. Rock Ridge has the ability to strike quickly and overwhelm opponents with its offensive firepower.
Defensively, the Wolverines are equally impressive, with goaltender Wyatt Jonassen posting a stellar 1.76 goals-against average and a .930 save percentage. Jonassen has been a brick wall in net, and his play will make it difficult for Duluth East to find the back of the net. Additionally, Rock Ridge’s penalty kill (84.6%) and power play (31.5%) have been among the best in the state, providing an all-around strength that will make them a tough opponent.
The Key to Success for Duluth East
For Duluth East to have any chance of pulling off an upset, they will need to capitalize on any mistakes made by Rock Ridge. The Greyhounds must minimize their own turnovers, and avoid unnecessary penalties. Offensively, Caden Cole and his teammates must be sharp and find ways to get pucks past Jonassen. On the defensive end, Nygaard will need to be at his best, and the Greyhounds will need to play smart, disciplined hockey to keep the high-powered Rock Ridge offense at bay.
The Key to Success for Rock Ridge
Rock Ridge will look to continue their dominance on both sides of the puck. The Wolverines will aim to outpace Duluth East early and often. If they can exploit the Greyhounds’ defensive weaknesses and capitalize on power plays, it could be a long night for Duluth East. Jonassen’s steady play in net will be key to ensuring Rock Ridge does not give Duluth East any hope, while the offensive duo of Dimberio and Carlson should continue to lead the charge.
Game Prediction
While Duluth East will certainly fight hard and give it their all after a thrilling win in their last game, Rock Ridge is simply too strong in every area of the game. Their offensive depth, solid defense, and exceptional goaltending will likely overpower the Greyhounds in this matchup.
Prediction: Rock Ridge 6, Duluth East 1
