GBMWolverine
Fansided

Michigan Hockey: 3 takeaways from demolition of Spartans to reach Big Ten semis

By Maddie Steinbock

DETROIT, MI - FEBRUARY 17: Nolan Moyle #27 of the Michigan Wolverines skates up ice with the puck against the Michigan State Spartans during the first period of the annual NCAA hockey game, Duel in the D at Little Caesars Arena on February 17, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan. The Wolverines defeated the Spartans 4-1. (Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI - FEBRUARY 17: Nolan Moyle #27 of the Michigan Wolverines skates up ice with the puck against the Michigan State Spartans during the first period of the annual NCAA hockey game, Duel in the D at Little Caesars Arena on February 17, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan. The Wolverines defeated the Spartans 4-1. (Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 3
Next
Syndication: Detroit Free Press
Syndication: Detroit Free Press /

Michigan’s special teams are dangerous

Michigan hockey killed off 10 Spartan power plays in both games combined. Kent Johnson scored a short-handed wrap-around goal in Saturday’s game, which was the seventh short-handed goal this season.

MSU later was assessed a 5-minute major penalty for slew-footing. Michigan took advantage of this power play and scored three goals in the 5-minute man advantage. Shorthanded or on a power play, Michigan is experienced and constantly keeps their opponents on their toes.

Chemistry is no longer an issue

During the Notre Dame series, there was a clear lack of chemistry between lines. While it was probably due to the Olympians making their return to the team and still getting used to the different style of play from what they were acclimated to in Beijing, there was still some concern that would linger into this weekend.

However, that did not seem to be a problem this time around. Friday night, nine different players earned points on four goals. Meanwhile, on Saturday, 11 different players earned points, with seven different players scoring a goal.

If that statistic isn’t mind-boggling enough, Erik Portillo had more points the entire weekend than any Michigan State player, earning two assists.

Home/Michigan Wolverines News