The Michigan Wolverines entered last night's Big Ten Tournament semifinal game against Minnesota with no guarantees about tomorrow.In theory, the Wolverines should Although they are key to making it to the NCAA Tournament, nothing is certain in college hockey, and a loss could mean a disappointing end to the season.
Going into the weekend, the University of Michigan knew that a win would 1) guarantee a spot in the NCAA Tournament and 2) arrange a state championship rematch with the Spartans for a chance at a third straight Big Ten Tournament title. Ta.
Michigan's identity has been a high-flying, high-powered offense under second-year head coach Brandon Naurat, but the Wolverines appear to have developed new defensive abilities in recent weeks. But the beginning of the game against Minnesota looked like another classic high-scoring Minnesota vs. Minnesota matchup.
Michigan took the lead, just as the Wolverines have scored in the past four meetings with the Gophers this season. Less than four minutes into the game, Chase Pletzke took a high shot into the net from the blue line just to cause chaos. Minnesota goaltender Justin Crouse knew he needed a standing chest save, but he forgot about the rebound.
A loose puck trickled down, found Keenan Draper's stick, and beat Close's five-hole for his fourth goal of the year. It looked like Michigan would extend its lead a few minutes later, but the play was overturned for offside.
Both teams had chances for the remainder of the first, but Michigan's defense kept the Wolverines ahead 1-0.
The University of Michigan's defense was a hot topic in the second game as well. The Wolverines worked hard on backchecks, puck possession and getting out of the clean zone. A crisp defense led to a high-performance offense, but the Crows were able to stand on their feet for much of the period. But with less than two minutes left, Michigan's defense sparked its second goal of the night.
After a tenacious Ethan Edwards forced a turnover on Minnesota, defenseman Marshall Warren connected with a beautiful stretch pass to streamer Gavin, who flicked a wrister past Crows.
The Wolverines allowed just five shots down the middle and carried a two-point lead into the final frame. But the last time these teams met, Minnesota went scoreless through two periods and scored five goals in the third, so the Wolverines knew they couldn't take their foot off the gas.
Minnesota entered the third period and put up a fight with more offensive zone time and more chances to score, but when Michigan's defenders weren't making plays, goaltender Jake Barczewski hit 24 I stood up to the chance to get one of the saves.
Until the 18:30 mark of the third, Michigan was suffocated defensively. But with the goalie pulled, Minnesota proved it can't just sit back and sleep. With 89 seconds left, Minnesota's Jimmy Snageld got the Gophers on the board.
There was a pulsation throughout the building, but Michigan eliminated the threat of Minnesota tying the game and held on for a 2-1 victory.
Saturday was Michigan's best performance of the season. The Wolverines were incredibly sharp both defensively and offensively, gaining value on all four lines. With this win, the Wolverines solidified their place in the NCAA Tournament.
Next Saturday, Michigan will play Michigan State in East Lansing for the conference title.
