Playoff Preview: Holy Angels vs. Edina

📅 Date: Saturday, Feb. 22 @ 3:00 PM
📍 Location: Bloomington Ice Garden

Matchup Overview

A high-stakes Section 6AA semifinal features Holy Angels (22-3-1) taking on Edina (18-6-2) in what promises to be an intense, fast-paced battle. Holy Angels enters as one of the top offensive teams in the state, averaging 6.35 goals per game, while Edina boasts a strong defensive core and elite goaltending.

Both teams secured quarterfinal victories—Holy Angels defeated Blake 5-2, while Edina edged Robbinsdale Armstrong/Cooper 4-3. With a trip to the section final on the line, we expect fireworks at this one.

Holy Angels: Can Their Offense Overpower Edina?

Holy Angels has been scoring at will this season, led by senior standout Henry Lechner (45G, 50A, 95P). They have a deadly power play (34.2%), and their deep offensive attack makes them one of the most dangerous teams in the tournament.

Key Players to Watch

Henry Lechner (45G, 50A, 95P) – One of the top scorers in the state, Lechner is a game-changer who can take over a matchup.
Cole Cheeseman (25G, 39A, 64P) – A playmaking forward who creates scoring chances for teammates.
Lincoln Ayers Assad (30G, 26A, 56P) – Another elite goal scorer who adds depth to Holy Angels’ attack.
Luke Marsalek (1.81 GAA, .933 SV%) – The backbone of the defense, Marsalek will be tested against Edina’s offense.

Keys to Victory

✅ Control the offensive zone – Holy Angels thrives in high-scoring games, and they need to dictate the pace early.
✅ Capitalize on the power play – The Stars’ 34.2% power play must take advantage of any Edina penalties.
✅ Keep Edina off the scoreboard early – Edina plays a structured, defensive style, and Holy Angels must force them to open up.

Edina: Defense Wins Championships

The Hornets are one of the most successful programs in Minnesota history, and they are built for playoff hockey. With strong team defense, goaltending, and opportunistic scoring, they have what it takes to shut down Holy Angels’ attack.

Key Players to Watch

Mason West (22G, 15A, 37P) – Edina’s leading goal scorer, West needs to generate offense against Holy Angels’ defense.
Caleb Pittsley (19G, 12A, 31P) – A two-way forward who will be key in Edina’s defensive strategy.
Bode McConnell (12G, 10A, 22P) – A hard-working forward who can contribute in all areas of the game.
Chase Bjorgaard (1.59 GAA, .933 SV%) – One of the best goalies in the tournament, Bjorgaard will need to be sharp against Holy Angels’ elite scorers.

Keys to Victory

✅ Lock down Lechner – If Edina can shut down Holy Angels’ top scorer, their chances of winning increase significantly.
✅ Get solid goaltending – Bjorgaard will need to match Marsalek save-for-save in what could be a tight game.
✅ Capitalize on counterattacks – Holy Angels plays an aggressive offensive style, so Edina must take advantage of turnovers.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Category	Holy Angels	Edina
Goals Per Game (GPG)	6.35	4.04
Goals Allowed Per Game (GAPG)	1.92	2.04
Power Play %	34.2%	33.8%
Penalty Kill %	82.9%	88.0%
Top Goal Scorer	Henry Lechner (45)	Mason West (22)
Top Playmaker	Cole Cheeseman (39A)	Casey Vandertop (23A)
Goaltending Leader	Luke Marsalek (.933 SV%)	Chase Bjorgaard (.933 SV%)

Prediction

This game features two powerhouse programs with contrasting styles—Holy Angels relies on offensive firepower, while Edina is built on structure and goaltending. If Holy Angels can break through Edina’s defensive shell, they have the firepower to win convincingly. However, if Edina slows the game down and keeps it low-scoring, the Hornets could grind out a hard-fought victory.

Final Prediction: Holy Angels 4, Edina 3 (OT)
➡️ Expect a thriller, with Holy Angels’ offensive depth proving just enough to edge Edina in extra time.

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