Get ready for an ice-cold showdown that’s heating up the hockey world! Arizona State takes on No. 6 UND in a nail-biting finale to their National Collegiate Hockey Conference series at Ralph Engelstad Arena. After UND’s 5-2 victory in the opener, tonight’s game promises even more action—but here’s where it gets controversial: Can Arizona State bounce back, or will UND’s momentum prove unstoppable? And this is the part most people miss: the strategic lineup changes and key injuries that could tip the scales. Let’s dive in!
Game Details:
- Time: 6:07 p.m.
- Place: Ralph Engelstad Arena, Grand Forks
- TV: Midco Sports (GF Ch. 27/622 HD)
- Radio: The Fox (96.1 FM) – Listen Live
- Stream: NCHChockey.com/tv
First Period Highlights:
UND jumped to an early lead with Ben Strinden’s goal at 2:37, thanks to a slick play by Keaton Verhoeff. But Arizona State struck back just 20 seconds into their power play, with Cullen Potter tying the game at 5:08. Bold prediction: This back-and-forth intensity is just the beginning—expect more fireworks as the game unfolds.
UND’s Lineup:
Forwards: Dylan James, Cole Reschny, Will Zellers, Mac Swanson, Ollie Josephson, Tyler Young, Cody Croal, Cade Littler, Ben Strinden, Anthony Menghini, David Klee, Dalton Andrew
Defensemen: Jake Livanavage, Bennett Zmolek, Abram Wiebe, Keaton Verhoeff, Andrew Strathmann, E.J. Emery, Jayden Jubenvill
Goaltenders: Gibson Homer, Jan Špunar, Zach Sandy
Injured/Out: Ellis Rickwood (inj), Jack Kernan (inj), Josh Zakreski (inj), Sam Laurila, Ian Engel
Arizona State’s Lineup:
Forwards: Cruz Lucius, Sean McGurn, Bennett Schimek, Jack Beck, Cullen Potter, Kyle Smolen, Sam Alfano, Logan Morrell, Noah Powell, Carmelo Crandall, Braxton Whitehead, Johnny Waldron
Defensemen: Brasen Boser, Joel Kjellberg, Richard Baran, Anthony Dowd, Justin Kipkie, Sam Court, Lincoln Kuehne
Goaltenders: Connor Hasley, Samuel Urban, Chase Hamm
Injured/Out: Justin Cloutier (ill), Ben Kevan, Tony Achille, Ty Nash, Tucker Ness, Austin Zemlak
Officials:
Referees: Jake Johnson, Brady Johnson
Linesmen: Tyler Liffrig, Tyler Landman
Supervisor: Thor Nelson
Pregame Insights:
UND’s Ellis Rickwood, a standout in Friday’s game with two assists and a 12-3 faceoff record, is sidelined with an injury. Jack Kernan and Josh Zakreski remain out, making way for Dalton Andrew’s season debut. Meanwhile, Arizona State shuffles its lineup, bringing in Noah Powell and Braxton Whitehead. Controversial question: Will these changes be enough to shift the balance in Arizona State’s favor, or will UND’s depth and momentum seal the deal?
UND’s Winning Streak:
The Fighting Hawks are on fire, winning four straight games and earning points in all five NCHC matchups this season. But Arizona State isn’t backing down—they’ve proven they can capitalize on power plays. Teaser: Who will come out on top in this battle of strategy and skill?
About the Author:
Brad Schlossman has been the go-to voice for college hockey in Grand Forks since 2005. Recognized by the Associated Press Sports Editors and named North Dakota’s sportswriter of the year twice, he brings unmatched expertise to every game. Reach him at bschlossman@gfherald.com.
Final Thought:
As the puck drops tonight, one thing’s certain: this game is a must-watch for any hockey fan. But here’s the real question: Who do you think will take the series? UND or Arizona State? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
