AA Quarterfinal: #5 Eagan vs. #4 Duluth East

[karl(east)]

#5 EAGAN VS. #4 DULUTH EAST
-Two tough teams known for their defense clash in the last AA quarterfinal. These teams have only met once before, a 2012 State consolation final won by the Hounds.

Eagan (18-9-1, #13, 4-seed in 3AA)
State appearances: 4 (first since 2012)
Key section wins: 2-1 (OT) over #18 Cretin-Derham Hall, 4-2 over #7 St. Thomas Academy
-Eagan may have been a 4-seed in its own section with 9 losses, but that’s deceptive, as the Wildcats were among the toughest teams in the State, especially through the second half of the season. The offense isn’t especially deep; Jack Jenson (24) is by far their leading scorer, and Kyle Stebbing (7) is their only other forward over 25 points. Their real strength, however, is in back, where the defensive pair of Nick Wolff (5) and Tommy Muck (2) is as good as any in the state. The Wildcats are a rugged, physical team, and that strength carried them through a difficult section. They also have one of the more touted goaltenders in the Tourney in Andrew Lindgren (35).

Duluth East (21-6-1, #9, 1-seed in 7AA)
State appearances: 21 (6 in a row)
State championships: 3 (1960, 1995, 1998)
Key section wins: 5-2 over #20 Grand Rapids, 3-2 (OT) over #8 Elk River
-As with Eagan, any discussion of the Hounds must begin with their top defensive pair, which is comprised of seniors Phil Beaulieu (25) and Alex Trapp (5). The offense doesn’t put up big numbers, but has come on some as the season has gone along, and is led by Nick Altmann (19) and Jack Kolar (22). These Hounds bear the usual trademarks of a Mike Randolph-coached team with their depth, strong forecheck, and stellar special teams, though they are also on the young side, and do not always dominate play as much as some recent East editions. With strong play out of goalie Gunnar Howg (31), they could be a threat to the top teams in the field.

[Sats81]

East 3-2 OT.

[Slammer]

4-2 East

[Sats81]

East 3-2 OT.

Forgot to add, should be the best game of QFs. These 2 teams match up very well. Edge in goaltending has to go to Eagan with Lindgren. Both teams very well coached, forecheck relentlessly, have rugged, tough dmen, neither team gonna blow someone out of water offensively. Looking forward to this one.

[almostashappy]

#5 EAGAN VS. #4 DULUTH EAST
-Two tough teams known for their defense clash in the last AA quarterfinal. These teams have only met once before, a 2012 State consolation final won by the Hounds.

Eagan (18-9-1, #13, 4-seed in 3AA)
State appearances: 4 (first since 2012)
Key section wins: 2-1 (OT) over #18 Cretin-Derham Hall, 4-2 over #7 St. Thomas Academy
-Eagan may have been a 4-seed in its own section with 9 losses, but that’s deceptive, as the Wildcats were among the toughest teams in the State, especially through the second half of the season. The offense isn’t especially deep; Jack Jenson (24) is by far their leading scorer, and Kyle Stebbing (7) is their only other forward over 25 points. Their real strength, however, is in back, where the defensive pair of Nick Wolff (5) and Tommy Muck (2) is as good as any in the state. The Wildcats are a rugged, physical team, and that strength carried them through a difficult section. They also have one of the more touted goaltenders in the Tourney in Andrew Lindgren (35).

It's not about getting a lot of goals from a "deep" offense...it's all about getting one more goal than the other team. Last year Eagan averaged almost 6 goals per game and had nine skaters with at least 20 points during the regular season. This year there were only four, and the team averaged 3.4 gpg. Yet here it is March, and it's this year's team that is still playing.

Two years ago, Eagan's Tourney team ran into a wall named Bitzer. Last year, it was Driscoll that ended the Wildcat's run. This year, we're the one with the touted goalie that's been battle-tested during six over time games (and counting). I'm feeling pretty good about standing on that side of the wall this time around.

[peggyfleming]

Even game experience at tourney decides final score.

[CitiesSpudsGuy]

#5 EAGAN VS. #4 DULUTH EAST
-Two tough teams known for their defense clash in the last AA quarterfinal. These teams have only met once before, a 2012 State consolation final won by the Hounds.

Eagan (18-9-1, #13, 4-seed in 3AA)
State appearances: 4 (first since 2012)
Key section wins: 2-1 (OT) over #18 Cretin-Derham Hall, 4-2 over #7 St. Thomas Academy
-Eagan may have been a 4-seed in its own section with 9 losses, but that’s deceptive, as the Wildcats were among the toughest teams in the State, especially through the second half of the season. The offense isn’t especially deep; Jack Jenson (24) is by far their leading scorer, and Kyle Stebbing (7) is their only other forward over 25 points. Their real strength, however, is in back, where the defensive pair of Nick Wolff (5) and Tommy Muck (2) is as good as any in the state. The Wildcats are a rugged, physical team, and that strength carried them through a difficult section. They also have one of the more touted goaltenders in the Tourney in Andrew Lindgren (35).

It's not about getting a lot of goals from a "deep" offense...it's all about getting one more goal than the other team. Last year Eagan averaged almost 6 goals per game and had nine skaters with at least 20 points during the regular season. This year there were only four, and the team averaged 3.4 gpg. Yet here it is March, and it's this year's team that is still playing.

Two years ago, Eagan's Tourney team ran into a wall named Bittner. Last year, it was Driscoll that ended the Wildcat's run. This year, we're the one with the touted goalie that's been battle-tested during six over time games (and counting). I'm feeling pretty good about standing on that side of the wall this time around.

That wall's name was actually Bitzer.

[Nuts&Bolts]

And last year Lindgren struggled badly in the section finals unlike Driscoll which sent EV to state. This year he didn't. I'm hoping to maybe see or at least hear from Scorekeeper this week with his prediction. I'll take East 4-2 (no EN) with East getting 2 PP goals and Eagan getting 1. A 5 minute major in this one could prove to be the difference.

[bauerman]

east 3-0

[almostashappy]

And last year Lindgren struggled badly in the section finals unlike Driscoll which sent EV to state. This year he didn't. I'm hoping to maybe see or at least hear from Scorekeeper this week with his prediction. I'll take East 4-2 (no EN) with East getting 2 PP goals and Eagan getting 1. A 5 minute major in this one could prove to be the difference.

Your observation might support my point.

Last year, Eagan played in 1 OT game all season (lost to HM). They might have been behind and pulled the goalie for an extra attacker 1 time last year. They weren't used to being behind at any point in the game. Three of the last four regular season games were running time affairs. Lindgren really never had much of an opportunity to be tested. So the combination of Driscoll standing on his head and Eagan giving up an early soft goal really put the Cats outside of their comfort zone, and outside their normal experience. You could say same thing happened year before in the 2012 State QF.

This year, there's been no shortage of close games, or OT games, or games where Eagan has played from behind. They haven't panicked, or folded (e.g. coming back from 2-0 deficit against STAA). Lindgren and the team defense have been battled-tested, and come out the better for it. This isn't your older brother's Chevrolet.

Should be a great game Thursday night.

[Nuts&Bolts]

We almost agree Almost. Some strange results with the Cats this year and it was 2 early soft goals let in last year that put Eagan on there heels but close enough. I agree the goal differentials and the lack of close games from 2012-13 didn't help Eagan kind of resembling the portrayal from Miracle with the Russians not knowing what to do playing from behind. Players and coach looked dumbfounded. Close games and competitive games help. Enjoy it this year as the future looks a bit bleak with the last flush from a decent youth group going back to the Zajac era in 2010. We'll save that banter for the summer when there isn't much to talk about.

[koolio]

We almost agree Almost. Some strange results with the Cats this year and it was 2 early soft goals let in last year that put Eagan on there heels but close enough. I agree the goal differentials and the lack of close games from 2012-13 didn't help Eagan kind of resembling the portrayal from Miracle with the Russians not knowing what to do playing from behind. Players and coach looked dumbfounded. Close games and competitive games help.

Enjoy it this year as the future looks a bit bleak with the last flush from a decent youth group going back to the Zajac era in 2010. We'll save that banter for the summer when there isn't much to talk about

.

Funny, but this is the same thing that was said two years ago and again last year at this time. Fact is, Coach Taylor and his varsity/jv coaching crew have a reputation for developing players throughout the season combined with players taking it upon themselves in the off-season.

[karl(east)]

You know, I could grouse about East's seed if I wanted to, but I just like this match-up too much. Two very even teams that play similar, tough hockey. And while I dislike the day-long wait to get to East's game, there's something about the late-night game that just makes the atmosphere. North vs. Metro, a Mr. Hockey finalist on both sides, two well-coached teams that have made a their mark winning narrow games all season long and pulled off comebacks in their section finals; two teams that take care of the fundamentals first, neither one with anything to lose...it just seems so right.

I'd give Eagan the edge in goal (though East has already taken out two Brimsek finalists this postseason), physicality, and Jenson is probably a little better than anyone East has up front. East has a little more forward depth and a better power play. Defense is pretty much even (East's being somewhat more dynamic, Eagan's being a bit more rugged), and both PKs are around 90%. Eagan is older, but East has more Tourney experience. Hard to see where someone might find the edge.

[HappyHockeyFan]

Best matchup of the day no question, could be a real classic. I think it comes down to penalties, the team with more loses. Score probably 3-2 or 4-2 with empty netter, overtime a real possibility.

[Nevertoomuchhockey]

Saw most of the East ER game on my buddy's DVR, and I was genuinely shocked at what I saw out of East. And not in a good way. Maybe I should have said what I didn't see out of East. I think they were fortunate to get by that team, and I think they will come in a little lazy and complacent vs Eagan.

Who I will pick 4-2.

Good luck to every single player!

[BogeyMan]

I like Eagan over the hounds in a close, low scoring affair 2-1. I think Lindgren will be the difference here. It is so important on the big stage to have a stud goaltender backstopping that strong defense. Someone correct me if I am wrong, but I believe that the goaltender chose to play for Eagan in 9th grade over going to Lakeville N?? Guess he would have made it to State either way. I am sure eagan fans are glad he chose to wear Blue&Green over Red/Black.

Jack Jensen (56 pts on season) will again lead the offense with a goal and assist.

I've got eagan pulling the upset over the hornets in the state semi's to make it to the State Championship against L North in an all SSC final.

[Sats81]

I like Eagan over the hounds in a close, low scoring affair 2-1. I think Lindgren will be the difference here. It is so important on the big stage to have a stud goaltender backstopping that strong defense. Someone correct me if I am wrong, but I believe that the goaltender chose to play for Eagan in 9th grade over going to Lakeville N?? Guess he would have made it to State either way. I am sure eagan fans are glad he chose to wear Blue&Green over Red/Black.

Jack Jensen (56 pts on season) will again lead the offense with a goal and assist.

I've got eagan pulling the upset over the hornets in the state semi's to make it to the State Championship against L North in an all SSC final.

Yes. Lindgren left LN after 1st year bantam. Older brother Charlie (now backup goalie at St Cloud St) played at LN through his Junior year in HS then left his Sr year to play in USHL for Sioux Falls. Younger brother Ryan is likely best 98 in country (yes better than Joey Anderson Hill people) and already commited to U. Plays at SSM. Phenomenal talent.

[TheInsider]

Going to be a psychical game. East just beat 2 very good goalies so I dont think cracking the code on Lindgren will be a major problem. I like Eagan's depth a little more, and Jensen is the best forward in the game. But East's D pair of Trapp and Bealiu (spelling sorry) has the ability to shut anyone in the state down.

Hounds 3-2 OT

[scorekeeper]

I'm hoping to maybe see or at least hear from Scorekeeper this week with his prediction.

Happy to accomodate. Of course, following the Wildcats long distance, so my prediction is made purely with my heart and I'll call for a 3-1 win with an EN goal. I also agree with the earlier poster that this group could pull the upset over Edina, as they did earlier this year ... and who knows after that. I do believe the win over Edina earlier this season set this team on a course, perhaps a date with destiny.

Somebody had mentioned in an earlier post in another thread that this years team is PREPARED FOR SUCCESS and I agree. Learning to win close games and relying on defence (which wins championships) has gone a long way to preparing this team for success in those types of games. I also think the loss to Eastview in sections last year was very much part of the process for this team. Losing is part of the winning process and most great teams must lose before they can win.

Eagan fans up here in Canada are bleeding blue and tremendously proud of the boys. Frankly, not suprised at all and will be glued to every second of the State Tourney.

Go Wildcats!

[green4]

I think comparing how East got by Sheppard and Berglove to scoring on Lindgren will be a big difference. The difference that I see is the Wildcats Defense. Elk River and Grand Rapids did not have a great defense to go along with there great goaltenders, while Eagan does. Not only will East have to get by Lindgren but also arguably the best defensive defenseman pair in Muck and Wolff along with another solid defensive pair.

I originally went with east in my vote in the Polls but Im having a change of heart.

Eagan 3-2

[Slammer]

I think comparing how East got by Sheppard and Berglove to scoring on Lindgren will be a big difference. The difference that I see is the Wildcats Defense. Elk River and Grand Rapids did not have a great defense to go along with there great goaltenders, while Eagan does. Not only will East have to get by Lindgren but also arguably the best defensive defenseman pair in Muck and Wolff along with another solid defensive pair.

I originally went with east in my vote in the Polls but Im having a change of heart.

Eagan 3-2

Is edina scared of East in the semis??

[Ogie]

Only picked Eagan because they're getting hot at the right time.

Though that metric didn't work out so hot for Eastview last year.

[HappyHockeyFan]

I'm hoping to maybe see or at least hear from Scorekeeper this week with his prediction.

Happy to accomodate. Of course, following the Wildcats long distance, so my prediction is made purely with my heart and I'll call for a 3-1 win with an EN goal. I also agree with the earlier poster that this group could pull the upset over Edina, as they did earlier this year ... and who knows after that. I do believe the win over Edina earlier this season set this team on a course, perhaps a date with destiny.

Somebody had mentioned in an earlier post in another thread that this years team is PREPARED FOR SUCCESS and I agree. Learning to win close games and relying on defence (which wins championships) has gone a long way to preparing this team for success in those types of games. I also think the loss to Eastview in sections last year was very much part of the process for this team. Losing is part of the winning process and most great teams must lose before they can win.

Eagan fans up here in Canada are bleeding blue and tremendously proud of the boys. Frankly, not suprised at all and will be glued to every second of the State Tourney.

Go Wildcats!

How Jesse doing ?

[Slammer]

Who do you guys think is favored in this one? Or do you think it's like the East- Elk River game where it's dead even?

[nahc]

Lindgren is very good.......but I like Easts speed........

East 3-1