Despite suiting seven freshmen, the Pioneers remained formidable. After allowing the first goal, DU scored four unanswered before the Nanooks could retaliate. Penalties became the name of the game in the third as DU scored three more goals, two of them being power play goals. The night would end with a score of 7-2 and Pioneer victory.
Game One Observations
- Jack Devine (FLA prospect) will be a scoring leader on the team this season. Netting two goals in game one, Devine has a quick snap shot with some deception to it.
- Kent Anderson, a defenseman, used his powerful wrist shot to have a successful offensive game and earn his first multi-point game.
- Goaltender Matt Davis had his first career opening night start. He was staring post-to-post and has a quick glove.
Game two was a different tale to start. The Nanooks’ strategy to congest the neutral zone against the Pioneers was effective. Until the second period, when they accrued a bunch of penalty minutes. Alaska started off the scoring once again and Denver scored five unanswered. They scored two goals with a man advantage and one was shorthanded. The final for game two would be only 5-2 with Denver walking away with their second victory of the weekend.
Game Two Observations
- Denver has a problem with their neutral zone play. If the opposition stacks their defense, it slows down the Pioneers.
- DU is dangerous on the power play as they can strike from any direction. It is like the Colorado Avalanche power play.
- The Pioneers are skilled at moving the puck in any situation. Their offense and defense have no issues communicating and can move the puck once they get momentum.
Conclusion
Experts chose Denver before the season as the NCHC Division Champions and I can see why. They dealt with any challenges this weekend effortlessly. Despite their youth, they played impressively on the ice this weekend. They possess a fearsome ability to play with grit, aggression, and speed simultaneously.