**** Official Hockey East 2010-2011 Season Thread ****

[Gainzo]

Lowell is going to suck. That is all.

[Lil Bit Special]

Lowell is going to suck. That is all.

Since Providence and Amherst are going to be God awful, you'll still be in the playoffs.

[PFSIKH]

I predict the University of No Hardware...wait for it...wait for it...will still have No Hardware.

[Gainzo]

I predict the University of No Hardware...wait for it...wait for it...will still have No Hardware.

That is money in the bank my friend!

I'm still reeling from the epic fail Lowell produced last season. They beat BC twice and BC goes on to win the National Title.

[Gainzo]

Even though Lowell is going to suck this season the Administration is funneling money into the Tsongas Center.

How cool is the scoreboard? It's going to be great watching BU & BC on that thing

[Lil Bit Special]

http://www.collegehockeynews.com/news/2010/06/03_darling.php

ORONO, Maine

[Lil Bit Special]

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[Lil Bit Special]

http://www.hockeyjournal.com/news/2010/06/02_maineswhitehead.php

Once-embattled University of Maine coach Tim Whitehead has signed a three-year contract extension to remain in that position, the university confirmed Wednesday.

"I am confident that under Tim

[Lil Bit Special]

San Jose Sharks announce the signing of goaltender Carter Hutton on Tuesday

http://www.goriverhawks.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/060110aaa.html

June 1, 2010

It was officially announced on Tuesday morning that former River Hawk goaltender Carter Hutton (Thunder Bay, Ont.) signed an entry-level contract with the NHL's San Jose Sharks.

Hutton, who graduated on Saturday as a member of the Class of 2010, was a four-year standout at UMass Lowell and played in 85 career games. During a stellar senior campaign, he submitted a 13-12-2 record with a .928 save percentage and 2.04 goals against average. Hutton was honored by the Hockey East Association as a Second Team All-Star and the Bauer Goaltender Champion. In addition, he was named a Division I All-Star by the New England Hockey Writers.

Hutton leaves UMass Lowell as the all-time career leader in shutouts (10), goals against average (2.33) and is tied with Nevin Hamilton (Ashland, Mass.) for career save percentage (.913). In addition, he set the program's single season record for save percentage in 2009-10.

Immediately following his final game, Hutton was signed to an amateur tryout by the Adirondack Phantoms of the AHL and was called up for one game by their NHL affiliate, the Philadelphia Flyers.

The official San Jose Sharks' release is posted below.

Sharks Sign Four

SAN JOSE, Calif. -- San Jose Sharks Executive Vice President and General Manager Doug Wilson announced today that the team has signed defenseman Taylor Doherty, center Marek Viedensky, goaltender Harri Sateri and unrestricted free agent goaltender Carter Hutton. In keeping with club policy, financial terms of the deals were not disclosed.

Doherty, 19, recently completed his third season with the Kingston Frontenacs of the Ontario Hockey League. The six-foot-seven, 220 lb. defenseman served as an alternate captain with Kingston and posted 44 points (16 goals, 28 assists) placing him first among all Kinston blueliners in each category. He finished third amongst all OHL defensemen in goals and was 15th in points. His 114 penalty minutes were second on the team

The native of Cambridge, Ontario was selected by San Jose in the second round (57th overall) of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.

Viedensky, 19, split the season between Prince George and Saskatoon in the Western Hockey League. With 59 points (20 goals, 39 assists) in 61 games, he finished tied-for-fourth on Saskatoon in points, fifth in goals and T-third in assists. He also posted 10 points (seven goals, three assists) in 10 playoff games with the Blades and was named the team's Playoff MVP.

Viedensky also represented Slovakia and the U-20 World Junior Championships, finishing with six points (one goal, five assists) in six games.

The Handlova, Slovakia native was selected by San Jose in the seventh round (189th overall) of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.

Sateri, 20, played in 49 games with Tappara in the Finnish Elite League posting a 2.73 goals-against average and a .915 save percentage. He also helped Tappara advance to the second round of the playoffs.

Sateri was selected by San Jose in the fourth round (106th overall) of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft.

Hutton finished his senior year at UMass-Lowell in 2010, playing in 27 games and posting a 2.04 goals-against average and a .928 save percentage, along with a 13-12-2 record and four shutouts. He finished fourth among all NCAA goaltenders in goals-against average (led Hockey East) and his save percentage was third in the nation among goaltenders who played at least 33% of their team's minutes. He won the Bauer Goaltending Champion Award for the best combined goalie stats in the Conference, as well as being named to the Hockey East Second Team All-Stars.

The six-foot-one, 200-pound native of Thunder Bay, Ontario, Hutton completed his four-year career with the River Hawks with a 34-41-10 record, 2.33 GAA and .913 save percentage, including 10 shutouts in 85 collegiate games. He is the school's all-time leader in GAA (2.33), shutouts (10) and tied for the all-time lead in save percentage (.913).

Hutton was recalled by the Philadelphia Flyers in late March after he signed an amateur tryout agreement with Adirondack of the American Hockey League. He appeared in four games with Adirondack, posting a 1-2-1 record and a 2.71 goals-against average and a .921 save percentage.

Three other players, defenseman Julien Demers (2008, fifth round), Samuel Groulx (2008, fourth round) and Patrick Zakrisson (2007, fifth round) were not signed to contracts and are eligible to re-enter the NHL Draft.

###

[Lil Bit Special]

http://warriorrinkrat.com/2010/05/31/umls-mceachern-takes-job-at-rivers/

UMass Lowell assistant coach Shawn McEachern has left the program, taking the job as head coach and assistant athletics director at Rivers, a prep school.

McEachern, a former BU forward, played 14 years in the NHL. He was an assistant on Blaise MacDonald

[Lil Bit Special]

http://warriorrinkrat.com/2010/05/11/several-rule-changes-could-be-on-the-horizon/

Every two years, the NCAA ice hockey rules committee meets to debate changes to the rulebook. This year, the committee will converge in Indianapolis from June 8-11 to discuss possible rule changes. Some of the changes they are considering include (my take is below, in red):

- Changing the penalty for

[PFSIKH]

Even though Lowell is going to suck this season the Administration is funneling money into the Tsongas Center.

How cool is the scoreboard? It's going to be great watching BU & BC on that thing

It is not cool at all.

[Lil Bit Special]

The Academic Progress Rate (also known as APR) is a metric established by the NCAA to measure the success or failure of collegiate athletic teams in moving student-athletes towards graduation [citation needed]. It was instituted in February of 2005 [citation needed]. In its first season of usage, three sports - football, basketball, and baseball - posted average APR scores below the NCAA-determined minimum level.

Collegiate sports teams that fail to achieve an APR score of 925 - equivalent to a 50% graduation rate - may be penalized with the loss of scholarships. A perfect score is 1000. The scores are calculated as follows:

The APR is calculated by allocating points for eligibility and retention -- the two factors that research identifies as the best indicators of graduation. Each player on a given roster earns a maximum of two points per term, one for being academically eligible and one for staying with the institution. A team's APR is the total points of a team's roster at a given time divided by the total points possible. Since this results in a decimal number, the CAP decided to multiply it by 1,000 for ease of reference. Thus, a raw APR score of .925 translates into the 925 that will become the standard terminology.[1]

The first penalties under the APR system were scheduled to be announced in December 2005.

The APR is designed to measure semester-by-semester academic progress, and is separate from the Graduation Success Rate (GSR), which only aims to measure the actual percentage of student-athletes who graduate, thus omitting students who would have graduated but left school early for non-academic reasons (such as a professional career).

So here is the APR for Hockey East Teams for the 2008/09 academic year:

1.-BU-1000

2.-Vermont- 985

t3.-Maine-984

t3.-Northeastern-984

5.-UNH- 982

6.-BC-979

7.-Providence-975

8.-Lowell-969

9.-Merrimack-952

10.-UMass-950

Way to go Toot!!!!! Worst in the league. 6th worst in the country!!!

[Gainzo]

Merrimack seems to be getting a little ahead of themselves by charging $20 a pop for season tickets ($240 per year) at the dump known as Lawler. Merrimack adds backs to the seats and all of a sudden a $5 seat is a $20 seat? I wonder if they will take debit/card cards this year? lol

http://static.psbin.com/w/d/xswvqk6ec1wxhn/Season_Ticket_brochure_2010-11.pdf

[Gainzo]

They sh*tcanned the old scoreboard at Tsongas and are putting together the new one.

LBS will love this shot of the Lowell Devils sign in the dumpster as the demo crew dismantled the old piece of sh*t scoreboard.

[PFSIKH]

Big 10 Hockey?

http://www.uscho.com/news/college-hockey/id,18757/PennStateMakesitOfficialVarsityProgramsontheWay.html

If they elect to go that way that will leave CCHA with 7 or 8 if Notre Dame leaves and WCHA still healthy at 10.

[Lil Bit Special]

They sh*tcanned the old scoreboard at Tsongas and are putting together the new one.

LBS will love this shot of the Lowell Devils sign in the dumpster as the demo crew dismantled the old piece of sh*t scoreboard.

NICE! Treat the Devils like a Prom Night Dumpster Baby!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRj-S8Aklcw

[Lil Bit Special]

Mark Roebathan Finds a Job

http://1000islandsprivateers.pointstreaksites.com/view/1000islandsprivateers/press-box-2/archived-news-3/news_15265

Privateers Announce Three Standout Signings; Number of Former DI Collegiate Players Signed Climbs to Four

The second DI captain named to the Privateers, Mark Roebathan served as the former captain of U. Mass Lowell in 2008-09. The St. Johns, Newfoundland native had a solid Division I career.. Mark played his junior hockey for the Napean Raiders in the CJHL before attending U. Mass Lowell where he scored 14 goals his junior year in the very competitive Hockey East League. " Mark obviously has performed well at a high level and he brings additional leadership and character to our club, I am very pleased with his signing," stated GM Mike Elberty.

Tyler Fernandez played at Brown University, the speedy forward comes to the Privateers anxious to compete and establish his offensive game. Fernandez was a three time all-star in the EJHL before attending Brown. GM Elberty on Fernandez signing: "I am looking forward to working with Tyler he has a lot of natural ability and he is just the kind of guy we want on our club."

Will Rathje finished his junior hockey playing for the Battleford Northstars in the SJHL. Rathje played briefly with the Red Dear Rebels in the Major Junior A WHL before winding out his junior career in 2006-07.

"Will played junior hockey with Derek and Jared Keller who I have had the pleasure of working with the last two years at St. Lawrence University. Will came back from a tough injury to play a key role with Battleford in his last year of junior hockey and I am excited that he wants to continue his career with us."

For ticket or advertising opportunities, please contact the Privateers' front office at (315) 382-5656 or nkirnan@1000islandsprivateers.net.

[Gainzo]

Mark Roebathan Finds a Job

http://1000islandsprivateers.pointstreaksites.com/view/1000islandsprivateers/press-box-2/archived-news-3/news_15265

Privateers Announce Three Standout Signings; Number of Former DI Collegiate Players Signed Climbs to Four

The second DI captain named to the Privateers, Mark Roebathan served as the former captain of U. Mass Lowell in 2008-09. The St. Johns, Newfoundland native had a solid Division I career.. Mark played his junior hockey for the Napean Raiders in the CJHL before attending U. Mass Lowell where he scored 14 goals his junior year in the very competitive Hockey East League. " Mark obviously has performed well at a high level and he brings additional leadership and character to our club, I am very pleased with his signing," stated GM Mike Elberty.

Tyler Fernandez played at Brown University, the speedy forward comes to the Privateers anxious to compete and establish his offensive game. Fernandez was a three time all-star in the EJHL before attending Brown. GM Elberty on Fernandez signing: "I am looking forward to working with Tyler he has a lot of natural ability and he is just the kind of guy we want on our club."

Will Rathje finished his junior hockey playing for the Battleford Northstars in the SJHL. Rathje played briefly with the Red Dear Rebels in the Major Junior A WHL before winding out his junior career in 2006-07.

"Will played junior hockey with Derek and Jared Keller who I have had the pleasure of working with the last two years at St. Lawrence University. Will came back from a tough injury to play a key role with Battleford in his last year of junior hockey and I am excited that he wants to continue his career with us."

For ticket or advertising opportunities, please contact the Privateers' front office at (315) 382-5656 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              (315) 382-5656      end_of_the_skype_highlighting or nkirnan@1000islandsprivateers.net.

I always liked Roebathan. He was a solid player.

Drumroll please...................Is this a legit scoreboard or what?

[Lil Bit Special]

I always liked Roebathan. He was a solid player.

Drumroll please...................Is this a legit scoreboard or what?

Im going to miss that old scoreboard....

[Lil Bit Special]

David Pacan dismissed from UVM hockey team

http://www.burlingto...UVM-hockey-team

Sophomore forward David Pacan has been dismissed from the University of Vermont men’s hockey team, head coach Kevin Sneddon said.

Sneddon confirmed Tuesday that Pacan was cut from the roster for a violation of the UVM student-athlete code of conduct. No details about the violation were released.According to an e-mail from UVM’s athletic communications office, Pacan had no comment about the disciplinary action.

“We have a clearly defined set of expectations as a hockey program here that the players are very well aware of,” Sneddon said. “On top of that, we have the UVM code of conduct, which the guys sign and are obliged to uphold. “(Pacan) violated that student-athlete code of conduct to a point where we felt it was in everybody’s best interest to release him from the team,” Sneddon said.

A sixth-round 2009 draft pick of the Chicago Blackhawks, Pacan is a 6-foot-3, 205-pound forward from Ottawa, Ontario. He led UVM freshmen with seven goals last year. He also had seven assists and played in all 39 games, amassing 22 penalty minutes.

The highlight of Pacan’s brief career was the game’s only goal, scored at 5:16 of the third period, in the second game of the Hockey East quarterfinal series at New Hampshire. UVM won the next night to eliminate the top-seeded Wildcats and move into the Hockey East semifinals and eventually into the NCAA tournament.

Asked how Pacan’s departure affects the Catamounts, Sneddon said, “Depth, and hey, he was one of our top young scorers. We already lost a lot of offense; we didn’t need to lose one more, but I’ve always been a firm believer that somebody will step up ... and fill a void.”

Pacan’s future is uncertain. He has junior hockey eligibility remaining and he could seek to transfer to another college program. The Blackhawks retain his rights and he could sign professionally. Pacan’s case is the second in which a top-scoring forward for the Catamounts has been dismissed from the team this year. Justin Milo, a junior forward, was dismissed in February in what Sneddon said was “the best interests of the team” and not a violation of team or school policy. The Catamounts begin official practice Friday and face their first competition with an exhibition game Sunday against New Brunswick at Gutterson Fieldhouse at 4 p.m. UVM opens its regular season at home against Denver on Oct. 10-11.

[Lil Bit Special]

http://www.goriverhawks.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/092910aab.html

River Hawks Selected Eighth in Hockey East Preseason PollHockey Receives 33 Points In Annual Preseason Coaches Poll

UMass Lowell hockey was selected to finish eighth in Hockey East in 2010-11 according to the preseason coaches poll released by the conference office at Wednesday's Media Day in the TD Garden. The River Hawks received 33 overall points following a 19-16-4 season which ended in the opening round of the Hockey East playoffs.

The reigning NCAA Champion, Boston College (29-10-3, 16-8-3 HE), claimed the top spot with nine first-place votes and 90 points. Maine (19-17-3, 13-11-2) ranked second, receiving the final first-place vote and 80 points to edge out New Hampshire (18-14-7, 15-6-6) who tallied 76 overall points.

Rounding out the top five are Boston University (18-17-3, 13-12-2) and Northeastern (16-16-2, 11-14-2) with 59 and 54 points, respectively.

"We're not a big fan of what-if scenarios and polls," said head coach Blaise MacDonald. "It's other people's guesswork. We're just excited to be in a very competitive conference with a young enthusiastic team."

The River Hawks, who were 12-11-4 in conference play, return 14 players from last season. Among them are leading scorer Scott Campbell (Navan, Ont.) and 2009 All-American defenseman Maury Edwards (Rocky Rapids, Alta.).

This season's success rests largely on the shoulders of the 13 incoming freshmen who will play major minutes for UMass Lowell. In addition to 11 incoming forwards and defensemen, two freshmen goaltenders, Marc Boulanger(Olds, Alta.) and Doug Carr (Hanover, Mass.), will be in the mix for time between the pipes.

"The feeling and mood around the Tsongas Center this fall has been of amazing excitement," continued MacDonald. "Almost as if it's a brand new beginning. Our fans deserve the best and they won't be disappointed. Our team will do everything in its power to be worthy of their commitment."

UMass Lowell opens to the 2010-11 season on the road, traveling to Maine on October 8 to battle the Black Bears.

The River Hawks home opener takes place on Oct. 22, against Hockey East foe Providence College at 7 p.m., followed by a clash with Northeastern the next night. Season tickets for the River Hawks are still available by calling Scott Donnelly at (978) 934-4988 or via the web at www.GoRiverHawks.com

The complete Hockey East Preseason Poll is available below:

2010-11 Hockey East Men's Preseason Poll

Rk. Team (FPV) Pts.

1. Boston College (9) 90

2. Maine (1) 80

3. New Hampshire 76

4. Boston University 59

5. Northeastern 54

6. Vermont 53

7. Merrimack 48

8. UMass-Lowell 33

9. Massachusetts 26

10. Providence 21

[Lil Bit Special]

Hockey East Preview: Eagles Poised for Another Successful Campaign

http://www.nesn.com/2010/09/boston-college-retains-number-one-ranking-over-tough-hockey-east-competition.html

The last three national champions have come from Hockey East, and the conference looks to be strong again during the 2010-11 season.

The USA/USA Hockey Magazine ranks Boston College as the team to beatthis season, and three other teams, Maine (7), New Hampshire (8), and Boston University (14) cracked the preseason poll. In addition, the entire conference posted a .623 winning percentage against teams outside Hockey East last year. This season could be even more impressive with 10 freshmen already drafted into the NHL.

Here's a closer look at each school.

Boston College

2009-10 season: After a disappointing 2008 season, the Eagles rebounded by winning the national title. They had the best overall record of 29-10-3 but actually finished second in Hockey East, going 16-8-3.

Key returning players: The Eagles return all three of their leading point scorers-- junior forward Cam Atkinson, and senior forwards Brian Gibbons and Joe Whitney. The leadership and talent of these players will be key for this year's success.

Key losses: Forward Ben Smith graduated and signed with the Chicago Blackhawks. Smith earned the NCAA tournament's Most Outstanding Player Award during the Eagles' run toward the championship. He played in all 165 of Boston College's games during his tenure.

Burning question: Can Boston College become the first Hockey East team to repeat as national champions since the 1971-72 Boston University Terriers?

BC has the pieces in place to return to the finals. The Eagles have every reason to believe they can repeat as long as they play up to their potential and their strong recruiting class comes through. But before the Eagles advance to the tournament, they'll be looking over their shoulder all season long at Maine, New Hampshire and maybe even BU.

Coach's take: "I'd like to find the key [to repeating], cause I haven't been able to do it. We haven't lost as many players as we did in 2008 or 2001 ... that's one of the keys, and also how they are focused."

--Jerry York

York knows from experience how tough it is to repeat, and he's been studying the successes of Minnesota and Denver -- who each tallied back-to-back national championships in the early 2000s. Luckily, he has the advantage of keeping most of his team from last year.

2010-11 outlook: The Eagles are the favorite in the coaches' poll to win Hockey East, and some polls have them ranked No. 1 in the nation. Still, history isn't on the Eagles' side in terms of repeating, and the conference is so tight that it would barely be a surprise if BC finishes second or even third. But they're the favorite for a reason, and this group has just as good of a chance as it did last year.

Boston University

2009-10 season: The Terriers followed a national title with a mediocre season, finishing with a 13-12-2 conference record and 17-16-3 overall record. The Terriers did not qualify for the NCAA tournament.

Key returning players: Junior goaltender Kieran Milan will return for his third season at BU. Milan excelled during the Terriers' championship run two seasons ago, but his numbers took a dip last year. Junior forward Chris Connolly notched 31 points last season and was elected co-captain along with senior forward Joe Pereira.

Key losses: The Terriers lost three key players who jumped to the pros. RBK First-Team All-AmericanColby Cohen signed with the Avalanche in April. He will join fellow defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk,whom the Avalanche drafted 14th overall in the 2007 draft. BU will also be without leading point-getter Nick Bonino who joined the Anaheim Ducks.

Burning question: How will the Terriers replace all their losses and get back to contention?

BU needs to improve on defense. Milan showed how good he can be during the championship run, but last year the team gave up the most goals in the conference. Freshman defenseman Adam Clendening could make an immediate impact filling in for Shattenkirk.

Coach's take: "We only have three returning defenseman that played a lot last year, and they'll have to play a lot again this year, with [David] Warsofsky being the key to that group."

--Jack Parker

Warsofsky, a junior and Massachusetts native, looks ready to take on the challenge of an increased leadership role. This summer, he had his rights traded to the Bruins, so he should have even more motivation to succeed in Boston. The other two players Parker refers to are sophomores Max Nicastro and Sean Escobero, who should succeed in increased roles.

2010-11 outlook: The Terriers are a long shot to win the conference, but you can never count out Jack Parker's team. Parker instilled a greater sense of commitment and work ethic in his players over the offseason, because he believes their attitude led to last year's early exit. If the defense comes together, the experience in the forwards could propel the Terriers to the national tournament.

University of Maine

2009-10 season: The Black Bears shared an identical record with Terriers both in the conference and overall. However, Maine excelled in the Hockey East Tournament, reaching the finals and losing in overtime 7-6 to Boston College.

Key returning players: Junior Gustav Nyquist returns as one of the premier players in the country. Nyquist finished in the top three of the Hobey Baker race and tied for the most assists in the nation with 42 (61 points overall). Junior Brian Flynn also returns as Maine's second leading scorer with 47 points.

Key losses: Maine suspended starting goalie Scott Darling toward the end of last season due to violating the team's personal conduct code, and Darling is no longer on the Black Bears' roster. Dave Wilson filled in for Darling during the Hockey Easy tournament before graduating at the end of the year.

Burning question: Did Maine improve enough to overtake BC?

While the Black Bears didn't lose any to the pros early, the loss of both goalies means they will have to start the inexperienced Shawn Sirman in net. Maine has talented forwards, but there's not enough evidence to suggest that there will be much of a change this year, which means that they probably won't be able to win the conference.

Coach's take: "We feel like we're going to be a little better this year, but we got to wait and see. ... We feel we got a good core. We're looking forward to this challenge."

--Tim Whitehead

Whitehead seemed less enthused about his team than some of the other coaches, which could have been the result of a full stomach from the buffet at media day, or perhaps he is unsure if Maine can truly compete at the highest level. This team is no doubt solid, but they are essentially the same team as last year.

2010-11 outlook: The coaches' poll has Maine at No. 2, but the team is pretty much even with UNH. They have the ability to beat anyone in the country, but they might not be strong enough on defense to go deep in the postseason.

University of Massachusetts

2009-10 season: The Minutemen went 18-18 overall with a 13-14 Hockey East record and had the distinction of being the only team in the conference without a tie.

Key returning players: Senior Paul Dainton returns for another year as goaltender, and junior T.J. Syner returns as the team's best forward, tallying 20 points last season.

Key losses: Forward James Marcou left after his junior season to sign with the San Jose Sharks (younger brother Michael remains with the team). Other star forward Casey Wellman also went to pros, signing with the Minnesota Wild after his sophomore year. The duo combined for 96 points last season.

Burning question: Can the Minutemen stay competitive with such a young team?

The 13-player recruiting class bodes well for the future, but there will be some bumps in the road this season. Hockey East is just too good for the inexperience Minutemen to succeed.

Coach's take: "There are so many unknowns on our team. There's a bunch of guys that have been role players that have been on the periphery that are really needed to step up. And we have a group of freshman that we'll see how they respond to the pressures of playing at this level and the intensity of Hockey East."

--Don Cahoon

It might be a long year for UMass, but coach Cahoon is realistic in his expectations. He's optimistic about the future of his team, but knows they will face an uphill battle this season.

2010-11 outlook: The defense should be the bright spot for this team, but they'll be scrapping just to make the eight seed in Hockey East. Consider this season a rebuilding year with a few upsets over the conference favorites sprinkled in.

University of Massachusetts- Lowell

2009-10 season: The Riverhawks went 19-15-4 overall with a 12-11-4 conference record before losing a close opening round of the playoffs to Maine. Lowell finished the regular season ranked.

Key returning players: Senior forward Scott Campbell is back for his final season after tying for the team lead in points last season with 30. Senior captain Ryan Blair has been a stabilizing presence on defense throughout his tenure.

Key losses: The majority of Lowell's scorers graduated, including leading scorer Kory Falite. GoalieCarter Hutton graduated and signed with the San Jose Sharks, and backup netminder Nevin Hamilton also graduated.

Burning question: Who will step in as Lowell's goalie this year?

Three freshman, T.J. Massie, Doug Carr and Marc Boulanger will all battle for playing time. No matter who plays, he'll have a hard time filling Hutton's skates.

Coach's take: "The net's wide open. We have three very good goaltenders. I'm not sure who's going to play in the exhibition game, let alone [in the season opener] against Maine."

--Blaise MacDonald

If the coach doesn't know, that can't be a great sign. The Riverhawks need someone to step up and assume the starting role.

2010-11 outlook: Lowell had much improved seasons over the last two year's, but with so many players graduating, it'll have to rebuild again. Lowell might still have enough returning talent to get into the playoffs, but don't expect the Riverhawks to go far.

Merrimack College

2009-10 season: Merrimack surprised most people with their first trip to the Hockey East playoffs since 2004. The Warriors went 16-18-2 with a 12-13-3 conference record.

Key returning players: Sophomore forward Stephane Da Costa and senior forward Chris Bartonreturn as the Warriors leading scorers. Da Costa won every Rookie of the Year honor during his freshman season and decided to put the NHL on hold.

Key losses: Defenseman and captain Pat Bowen graduated. Bowen chipped in 18 assists last season.

Burning question: Can the Warriors' meet the raised level of expectations this season?

Merrimack seems ready to rise to the occasion. They have a winning culture starting to take root in North Andover, and they retained the core group of guys who made such strides last season. There doesn't seem to be an overload of pressure on Merrimack, just deserved recognition.

Coach's take: "We don't use the word expectation. I don't like the word and I don't want the guys to expect anything. We have some goals that aren't a whole lot different from last year, except maybe they're a bit more attainable."

--Mark Dennehy

Dennehy is excited about the rebirth of the program in which he has been so instrumental in turning things around. He's confident and knows that he's built a program that can finally compete in Hockey East for years to come.

2010-11 outlook: This should be a huge year for Merrimack. The Warriors won't make the NCAA tournament, but they could make some noise in Hockey East, possibly finishing as high as a five seed. Da Costa could be a Hobey Baker candidate, and the team already has received a few votes in the USA Today Top 15 preseason poll.

University of New Hampshire

2009-10 season: UNH won the conference during the regular season, going 15-6-6 in Hockey East and had a 17-12-7 overall record. But the Wildcats slipped in the first round of the Hockey East tournament and then in the NCAA tournament, ending their season early.

Key returning players: Senior forward and captian Mike Sislo is expected to take the leap forward and improve on his 29-point season last year. Senior forward Paul Thompson also returns as a proven scorer, notching 19 goals last season.

Key losses: Top goal scorer Bobby Butler graduated and signed with the Ottawa Senators. GoalieBrian Foster also graduated and his rights currently belong to the Florida Panthers.

Burning question: Can UNH succeed in the postseason this year?

The Wildcats have had disappointing losses in the playoffs in recent years. UNH has the second longest active streak of NCAA tournament appearances, but no national titles. There's no real rhyme or reason to it. Hockey East is just so tight that the Wildcats could win the conference again and still lose early, or they could make a run. The key could be in how senior Matt DiGirolamo performs as the new starting goalie.

Coach's take: "Our goal is just to get to the tournament and then compete from there"

--Dick Umile

Of course Umile is saying this now, but this might be the school's best chance to win the title with a strong senior class. Umile should be commended for his success with the program, but a small recruiting class means that the window could be closing on UNH.

2010-11 outlook: Nine of the 10 leading scorers return, so UNH should be prolific on offense. The goaltending position could be a question mark, but Umile has a lot of confidence in DiGirolamo and thinks he could be one of the top goalies in the conference. UNH should finish in the top three of Hockey East and gain a bid to the national tournament, but the team might not have enough to outlast Boston College.

Northeastern University

2009-10 season: Northeastern missed the playoffs during a disappointing year, going 11-14-2 in the conference with a 16-16-2 overall record.

Key returning players: The Huskies have two senior forwards who will provide leadership to a young squad. Captain Tyler McNeely has amassed 71 points over his three seasons at NU, and Wade MacLeod returns after having a 30-point season to lead the pack for the Huskies last year.

Key losses: Top goal scorer Kyle Kraemer graduated and went on to win gold with the US Inline Hockey team over the summer. Key defender Jake Newton graduated and signed with the Anaheim Ducks

Burning question: Can the Huskies get back to winning now that they're healthy?

Junior forward Steve Quailey missed all of last season after an impressive rookie year when he won Hockey East All-Rookie honors. He should be a huge addition to the offense. On defense, seniorRandy Guzior missed the last six games of last season, but he's healthy now and should make a big impact, especially with his leadership. The Huskies improved just by getting their old players back.

Coach's take: "We have a lot of guys who got valuable experience due to other players getting injured last year, and I hope that experience translates this year."

--Greg Cronin

Northeastern has a lot of guys who can step in if injuries accumulate again this year, and the sophomore class should be strong. Garret Vermeersch led the team in assists during his freshman year and will have the chance to do more in a larger role this year.

2010-11 outlook: The Huskies should improve from last year, and they looked tough even with all of last season's injuries. Northeastern doesn't have as many big names as some other schools, but they should be in the playoffs no question.

Providence College

2009-10 season: The Friars struggled all through the year, enduring a 5-18-4 conference record with 10-20-4 overall record.

Key returning players: Senior forward and captain Kyle MacKinnon leads the way for Providence and posted 25 points last year. Junior Alex Beaudry returns as goalie for another season.

Key losses: Defenseman Mark Fayne graduated and signed with the St. Louis Blues.

Burning question: Can Providence climb out of the cellar?

The Friars didn't lose much this offseason, and with the return of MacKinnon, they might not be stuck at the bottom.

Coach's take: "Our players look great and are very excited about the upcoming season."

--Tim Army via Twitter

Army knows he does not have the most talented team, but he can stretch the players' talent for a few extra wins. Still, the rest of Hockey East must look daunting to Providence.

2010-11 outlook: UMass and UMass-Lowell both suffered many losses, so they might slip to the bottom of the standings, but Providence can't expect to get much further than an eighth seed. Reaching the playoffs would be a big step for this team.

University of Vermont

2009-10 season: Vermont won an at-large bid to the national tournament last year going 19-13-7 overall but struggled in the conference with a 9-11-7 record.

Key returning players: Junior Rob Madore will return for another year between the pipes, and senior forward Jack Downing returns as the Catamounts' leading scorer with 21 points last season.

Key losses: UVM's three top scorers all graduated, forwards Brayden Irwin, Colin Vock, and Brian Roloff. Irwin signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Roloff signed with the Providence Bruins after the season.

Burning question: Does Vermont have enough firepower to makeup for those they lost to graduation?

Vermont will almost certainly take a hit on offense. The Catamounts will struggle trying to replace the production of Irwin, Vock, and Roloff, so look for them to lean more on defense this season.

Coach's take: "We had [the Stanley Cup] in the locker room. ... We're hoping that that will give us some luck going into the season."

--Kevin Sneddon, as told to WPTZ

Vermont has yet to win a national championship despite being competitive on a national level the last few years. If Vermont does take the leap, they might need a bit of luck.

2010-11 outlook: Vermont still looks strong, but with an improved Merrimack team, a healthy Northeastern and a recharged BU, Vermont might have a hard time improving its conference rank. The Catamounts won't have a problem making the playoffs though.

[Lil Bit Special]

[Lil Bit Special]

Toot Cahoon evaluates UMass hockey freshmen Conor Allen and Joel Hanley

http://blog.masslive.com/umass-hockey/2010/09/toot_cahoon_evaluates_umass_hockey_freshmen_connor_allen_and_joel_hanley.html

At Hockey East Media Day, UMass coach Toot Cahoon gave a scouting report on newcomers Conor Allen and Joel Hanley, both defensemen.Allen is 6-1, 203. He is from Chicago, and played last season for the Sioux Falls Stampede of the United States Hockey League. He was a plus-9, and was twice named the USHL defensive player of the week..

"Allen will be a great skating defenseman in this league," Cahoon said. "He really transitions the puck by foot as well as with a strong pass. "And Hanley has great puck skills. He's really kind of clever with the puck. We're hoping that translates into both of those guys being involved at some level in our power-play situation, and giving us a presence back there in an early stage of their career that we need desperately."

Hanley played last season for the Newmarket Hurricanes of the Ontario Junior Hockey League. From 2007-10 there, he compiled 26 goals and 50 assists over 109 games.

[Lil Bit Special]

UMass hockey leaders are ready for season

http://blog.masslive.com/umass-hockey/2010/09/umass_hockey_leaders_are_ready_for_season.html

With goal scoring a definite need, assistant captains Danny Hobbs and T.J. Syner are looking for big years for the University of Massachusetts hockey team. "I'm hoping all the work I did in the summer is going to pay off for me," Hobbs said Wednesday at Hockey East Media Day at the Legends Restaurant at TD Garden. "I skated a lot, and I worked out. This is my third year, so I'm a lot more mature now. This summer I focused on more of the skating aspects."

Syner feels it's a good opportunity to get some power-play time. "I did a lot of weight training, speed an agility drills - stuff like that - tried to get an extra step faster. It was overall a pretty productive summer." T.J. had one setback in the summer as he dislocated his shoulder in a summer league game, but is now ready to go. I did a lot of work with Jeff Smith our athletic trainer, and he did an awesome job," Syner said. "I'm pretty much back to 100 percent."

On defense, assistant captain Michael Marcou is no longer the "other Marcou" with brother James having turned pro with the San Jose Sharks organization. "He's off to wherever he is, same as I am, now I'm on my own," Michael said "We have a lot of new guys coming in on defense, we've got some offensive guys, and some big guys. We've got a sold set of D this year." The Minutemen, who were limited to two hours a week with coaching assisted practice in the early training period, start their full workouts Thursday. Senior captain and goaltender Paul Dainton said the Minutemen are not going to let past obstacles, like bad second halves of seasons, get into the thought process this time around. "I think we're just going to take it one game at a time," Dainton. "I know a lot of critics out there are waiting for the last half of the season, and things like that. But this year we have a young team, a lot of underclassmen, and we're not going to focus on things that have happened in the past."

As it turns out, the four leaders are also roommates, and they stick together. But the players admitted there's a fifth roommate. They said it's just a "gremlin." I'm really curious. So who is this gremlin? "He's just a gremlin," Dainton said. Another chirped in that the Gremlin is the "Captain of the House."

And they just won't say who he is. Mum is the word. Now upon further review, a gremlin was referred to in World War II as an invisible being who caused airplanes to have mechanical problems. Another definition is any cause of trouble, difficulties. In 1925-30, it was an enlisted man who was given the most onerous duties. But this is a modern day gremlin who runs the show. One UMass spokesperson said that he knew the Gremlin was, but also wasn't going to tell. We need to find out. I mean he's the captain of the house.

[Lil Bit Special]

Brothers ready to face off on the ice at UMass and Boston University

http://www.masslive.com/sports/index.ssf/2010/09/brothers_ready_to_face_off_on.html

BOSTON – For Boston University coach Jack Parker, it’s the one that somehow got away.

As is the tradition on Hockey East Media Day, teams bring their captains and make them available for interviews. So Wednesday, BU senior captain Joe Pereira was on hand without his younger sibling rival. Brother Michael Pereira is a freshman forward at the University of Massachusetts. How did that ever happen? “We weren’t as enthusiastic as we should have been, and we weren’t investing as much money as we should have been,” Parker said. “Toot (UMass coach Cahoon) did a great job recruiting him.” Joe refused to take the blame for not coaxing his brother to BU. “I think it was just a numbers thing,” Joe said. “They (BU) had their players recruited already. It was kind of – do a year of juniors or not. I think he wanted to go his own way. He’s kind of followed me through his whole life, so he’s like – ‘Enough’.

Joe’s really looking forward to it. “It’s going to be the first time I can hit him without my mom yelling at me,” he said. Joe said that his brother is “more mellow” than he is. “I’m more of an energy guy.” Joe said. “I think on the ice he’s definitely a lot more skilled. I like to go out and try and hit people, and get the team going. He likes to score more goals, and be more of an offensive force.” The brothers have never played against each other. They will Oct. 16 when the Minutemen play at BU, and then again Oct. 22 in the return match at the Mullins Center. “We have like 50 people coming to the game, so it should be good,” Joe said. Joe and Michael have an older sister Lisa, who is not a hockey player, but was drafted into playing goal when the brothers were young.

The family has taken care of the split loyalty problem. “They bought jerseys already, and cut them in half, and stitched them – half UMass, half BU,” Joe said. Joe said his brother is a threat from the blueline in.. “He’s very creative, and when he gets the puck, he can make things happen. He’s a little taller than me, but he’s a skinny, lanky kid. I think he needs to fill out more. He’s a true 18-year-old freshman, and I think that’s one thing he has going for him.”

Michael graduated from Avon Old Farms Prep School where he was an All-New England, All-Conference, and team MVP as a senior. He was ranked as the 77th best North American skater by the NHL Central Scouting Services. “Michael also had a dream of playing at Yale too, but deep down he always wanted to play in Hockey East. He got recruited by BU and BC, but they also didn’t give him a scholarship, so it also gives them a little kick in the butt when they play each other,” Joe said.

What’s most noticeable on Hockey East Media Day is that despite the fierce and often nasty competition during the season, the coaches and players at this event are like one big family. Cahoon was in the line right behind BU’s Pereira for the luncheon buffet. Toot saw a quarter on the floor, picked it up, and gave it to Joe, telling him that he can’t say he never game him anything, and to be good to his brother. Ah, money changing hands, an NCAA violation? “Not my player,” Toot quipped. The frivolity ends soon for both teams.

Parker says this is the youngest team he can ever remember putting on the ice. UMass, picked ninth as expected, is going to end up somewhere between a rebuilding year, and a pleasant surprise with its 13 freshmen and senior goaltender Paul Dainton. “I think we’re hungry especially after last year,” Joe said of BU’s disappointing season when it never properly took into account the number of key players they lost. “We got caught in that ‘we’re national champions.’ Our attitude wasn’t there.” For the Minutemen, Cahoon said there are so many unknowns. “The knowns are T.J. Syner, Danny Hobbs, Michael Marcou, and Paul Dainton for leadership, and you might throw Doug Kublin into the equation,” he said. “We have a decent base to work from.” 

[Lil Bit Special]

RULES CHANGES FOR THE 2010/2011 SEASON

http://web1.ncaa.org/web_files/rules/icehockey/2010/2010ihrulesfinalchanges.pdf

Big changes I see:

Delayed penalty... if team scores, they still get a power play.

Contact to the Head- Clarifies the rule a bit, with more emphasis on major penalty for targeted contact to the head.

Icing- No more automatic icing. Depends on which teams player is closest to the puck.

[Gainzo]

Another season of utter disappointment is in my future.....................

Opening up the season with an 8-2 loss at Maine showed how bad Lowell is going to suck!

[Gainzo]

http://www.goriverhawks.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/101910aab.html

Former River Hawk great Craig Charron passed away late Monday night from his brave battle with stomach cancer at the age of 42.

"UMass Lowell has lost a great friend and former student-athlete," UMass Lowell Athletic Director Dana Skinner said. "Craig was a hero on the ice and in every community in which he played or lived. He was such an inspiration to so many throughout his young life. His passing will be mourned by all who knew him. We share our deepest sympathies with his wife, Wendy, and their four courageous children."

Charron was a standout forward for the University of Lowell from 1986-90, serving as captain during his senior year. Upon his graduation, Charron was the second leading scorer in the program's Division I history with 148 points on 64 goals and 84 assists in 142 career games. His accomplishments in a Chiefs' sweater still stand the test of time as he ranks 13th among all scorers in school history. During his sophomore season, ULowell appeared in its first ever Division I NCAA Tournament in 1988.

"We were privileged and blessed to have been part of his life's journey," said head coach Blaise MacDonald. "To have an opportunity to see Craig and spend time with him this past Saturday was a gift. We will keep his wife Wendy, a UMass Lowell alumni, and their beautiful children in our thoughts and prayers. We will always support them."

To honor his success and hard work at the university, Charron is being inducted into the Legends of Lowell, formerly the UMass Lowell Hockey Hall of Fame, at Friday night's home opener against Providence College. The pre-game ceremony, coinciding with the Third Annual Riley Reunion Night, will begin at 4:00 p.m. with a reception, video tributes and brief speaking program, followed by the game at 7:00 p.m.

Originally drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in 1989, Charron went on to an illustrious professional career, namely with the Rochester Americans of the American Hockey League. On April 6, 2008, the Amerks made Charron the 44th member of their Hall of Fame.

In addition to the Legends of Lowell ceremonies, prior to Friday's game UMass Lowell will wear Charron jerseys in warm-ups. Those jerseys will be auctioned off during the contest to raise money for his family.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I miss the old Chiefs jerseys

[Blackout]

Maine whoopin dat a$$ yo

[Lil Bit Special]

Maine whoopin dat a$ yo

yes they are. A very impressive weekend for the Black Bears. My guess is they move up from 12th to 5th overall in the cuntry.

[Blackout]

I'm hoping so....not that I invest any time following them

I watched about 15 minutes of the game on tv Saturday before the baseball game came on though

[afosomf]

BTW Hockey EasT blows

Niagara 4 NorthEastern 1

i was there to watch the drubbing

[war ensemble]

You guys get one more year of me being the resident BU troll--that is, unless I end up going to BU.