Committed Recruits Update Thread

by **grizz** » Mon 12/26/11 12:41 pm

Hammy wrote:Hudson Fasching has committed to the Gophers.

what a nice late christmas present!

by **streakygopher** » Mon 12/26/11 12:44 pm

grizz wrote:
Hammy wrote:Hudson Fasching has committed to the Gophers.

what a nice late christmas present!

Nice...an embarrassment of riches!

Not complaining about Lucia, but wow, hard to believe he wouldn't want to be part of this recruiting run.

by **Bushwood Gopher** » Mon 12/26/11 12:55 pm

Hammy wrote:Hudson Fasching has committed to the Gophers.

Tremendous! Thanks for the update Hammy.

by **streakygopher** » Mon 12/26/11 1:08 pm

What year is he coming in?

by **Hammy** » Mon 12/26/11 1:17 pm

Can't imagine it wouldn't be Fall of 2013

by **streakygopher** » Mon 12/26/11 1:24 pm

Hammy wrote:Can't imagine it wouldn't be Fall of 2013

thought maybe he was one of these kids gunning for early graduation....

by **5 O.T.** » Mon 12/26/11 1:28 pm

streakygopher wrote:
grizz wrote:
Hammy wrote:Hudson Fasching has committed to the Gophers.

what a nice late christmas present!

Nice...an embarrassment of riches!

Not complaining about Lucia, but wow, hard to believe he wouldn't want to be part of this recruiting run.

To paraphrase Groucho Marx: "A verbal commitment isn't worth the paper it's printed on". Sooo, until Mario puts pen to paper and signs his LOI with Notre Dame you never know. Stranger things have happened.

Very nice add for the Gophers. Great news.

by **g_manpucker** » Mon 12/26/11 1:30 pm

As someone who only knows what I read here about these incoming recruits I am not sure where all of these commitments rank in the recruiting landscape. Hammy, in your opinion what grade would you give the U for the list of commitments they have received in the last 6 months or so? An A...B...? Are these guys going to be 1 or 2 year wonders looking for NHL glory or 3-4 year standouts looking for NCAA championships for SKI-U-MAH? I'm excited especially since most everyone else has been high on these guys but I am just wondering how they rank?

by **frozen4champs** » Mon 12/26/11 1:39 pm

Here is a great story on Hudson and his family.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/columns/s ... id=6145415

by **JDUBBS1280** » Mon 12/26/11 1:44 pm

g_manpucker wrote:As someone who only knows what I read here about these incoming recruits I am not sure where all of these commitments rank in the recruiting landscape. Hammy, in your opinion what grade would you give the U for the list of commitments they have received in the last 6 months or so? An A...B...? Are these guys going to be 1 or 2 year wonders looking for NHL glory or 3-4 year standouts looking for NCAA championships for SKI-U-MAH? I'm excited especially since most everyone else has been high on these guys but I am just wondering how they rank?

IMO, a very solid A+

We've landed whom many regarded as the Top 3 recruits in the 1995 birth year in Fasching, Cammarata, and Guertler, and picked up commitments from very solid recruits in Brodzinski, Bischoff, Lettieri, and Nanne.

Future is very, very bright

by **Hammy** » Mon 12/26/11 1:56 pm

g_manpucker wrote:As someone who only knows what I read here about these incoming recruits I am not sure where all of these commitments rank in the recruiting landscape. Hammy, in your opinion what grade would you give the U for the list of commitments they have received in the last 6 months or so? An A...B...? Are these guys going to be 1 or 2 year wonders looking for NHL glory or 3-4 year standouts looking for NCAA championships for SKI-U-MAH? I'm excited especially since most everyone else has been high on these guys but I am just wondering how they rank?

It is tough to give them anything other than an A. Since last off-season started (I am including Kloos as he committed in April), they have really been dialed in. It is a very highly skilled group of kids and there is a lot to be excited about. IMO, Fasching is the only one that is the type you get real concerned about leaving after a year or two of college. The rest are more likely to be 3 or 4 year types. You could make an argument that Cammarrata could be the type to leave after two years as he has great skill. But he is in 5'6 or 5'7 range and NHL teams are much less likely to sign a player like that after a year or two of college. So I am inclined to think he is more likely a 3 year kind of kid.

Moving forward, I believe you will see them balance things out a bit with a few older, gritty guys up front to balance out the high end skill guys of that class.

Definitely a lot to be excited about though.

by **g_manpucker** » Mon 12/26/11 2:19 pm

Hammy wrote:
g_manpucker wrote:As someone who only knows what I read here about these incoming recruits I am not sure where all of these commitments rank in the recruiting landscape. Hammy, in your opinion what grade would you give the U for the list of commitments they have received in the last 6 months or so? An A...B...? Are these guys going to be 1 or 2 year wonders looking for NHL glory or 3-4 year standouts looking for NCAA championships for SKI-U-MAH? I'm excited especially since most everyone else has been high on these guys but I am just wondering how they rank?

It is tough to give them anything other than an A. Since last off-season started (I am including Kloos as he committed in April), they have really been dialed in. It is a very highly skilled group of kids and there is a lot to be excited about. IMO, Fasching is the only one that is the type you get real concerned about leaving after a year or two of college. The rest are more likely to be 3 or 4 year types. You could make an argument that Cammarrata could be the type to leave after two years as he has great skill. But he is in 5'6 or 5'7 range and NHL teams are much less likely to sign a player like that after a year or two of college. So I am inclined to think he is more likely a 3 year kind of kid.

Moving forward, I believe you will see them balance things out a bit with a few older, gritty guys up front to balance out the high end skill guys of that class.

Definitely a lot to be excited about though.

Thanks, Hammy! Like I said I have been excited about these commitments while following your reactions on twitter I could tell they weren't just run of the mill type recruits. Hopefully with how this year is going, the maturing of the guys here currently, and then the guys coming in I feel a good run on tap for the next few years. :good2:

by **LeoPohl** » Mon 12/26/11 2:25 pm

JDUBBS1280 wrote:
g_manpucker wrote:As someone who only knows what I read here about these incoming recruits I am not sure where all of these commitments rank in the recruiting landscape. Hammy, in your opinion what grade would you give the U for the list of commitments they have received in the last 6 months or so? An A...B...? Are these guys going to be 1 or 2 year wonders looking for NHL glory or 3-4 year standouts looking for NCAA championships for SKI-U-MAH? I'm excited especially since most everyone else has been high on these guys but I am just wondering how they rank?

IMO, a very solid A+

We've landed whom many regarded as the Top 3 recruits in the 1995 birth year in Fasching, Cammarata, and Guertler, and picked up commitments from very solid recruits in Brodzinski, Bischoff, Lettieri, and Nanne.

Future is very, very bright

Agreed. Streaky said it best:

streakygopher wrote:Nice...an embarrassment of riches!

Now I'm just curious to see who Michigan brings in to keep it's hold on the top recruiting class for 2013. Watch out, Mario. That stench you smell is Red coming to get ya'. :biggrin2:

by **gator** » Wed 12/28/11 2:48 pm

Hammy wrote:Hudson Fasching has committed to the Gophers.

Kinda late to the rodeo... Just read the news on Hockey Hub. Good to see and hear.

by **LeoPohl** » Wed 12/28/11 3:42 pm

Just out of curiosity to those who have seen them, do Vinni Lettieri and Lou Nanne play wing or center?

by **FargoGopher7** » Thu 12/29/11 12:49 am

Was at the force game tonight a lot to look forward to in regardes to guetler looks better than he did earlier this year good sign!

by **Hammy** » Thu 12/29/11 1:38 am

FargoGopher7 wrote:Was at the force game tonight a lot to look forward to in regardes to guetler looks better than he did earlier this year good sign!

From what I hear, Guertler has been playing very good all around hockey. He's known as a scorer against his own age group but he's not really going to be called upon in that role as a 16 year old rookie in the USHL (pretty rare to do that at that age). Surprisingly physical for his size and doing well working on his overall game (defense, face offs, etc). He'll get back to that scoring role as he matures on that level. But he's looking good for the future.

by **FargoGopher7** » Thu 12/29/11 8:42 am

By the way he played last night he will find himself on the score sheet quite often!

by **BlueBandit24** » Thu 12/29/11 10:37 am

FargoGopher7 wrote:Was at the force game tonight!

Any thoughts on Lincoln's Tommy Schutt? I liked his all-around game at Minnetonka and he seems to acclimating pretty well to the USHL.

by **JDUBBS1280** » Thu 12/29/11 10:54 am

Gopher Recruiting Update

Justin Kloos - 13-16-29 in 9 games (Lakeville South - MNHS)
Vinni Lettieri - 11-18-29 in 11 games (Minnetonka - MNHS)
Lou Nanne - 5-4-9 in 11 games (Edina - MNHS)
Michael Brodzinski - 6-7-13 in 10 games (Blaine - MNHS)
Jake Bischoff - 2-10-12 in 5 games (Grand Rapids - MNHS) *** Actually only played 4 games and 1 period of 5th before getting injured
Taylor Cammarata - 12-15-27 in 24 games (Waterloo - USHL)
AJ Michaelson - 1-6-7 in 22 games (Waterloo - USHL)
Gabe Guertler - 5-4-9 in 25 games (Fargo - USHL)
Adam Wilcox - 8-6-0 with 2 SO, 2.67 GAA, 9.12 SV% in 14 games (Tri City - USHL). *** Traded from Green Bay mid-season for 1st round pick
Brady Skjei - 1-9-10 in 28 games (USNTDP-U18)
Hudson Fasching - 5-6-11 in 22 games (USNTDP-U17)
Connor Reilly - 26-35-61 in 35 games (Penticton - BCHL)
Ryan Reilly - 21-22-43 in 35 games (Penticton - BCHL)
Mike Reilly - 14-34-48 in 31 games (Penticton - BCHL)

by **Chris Eckes** » Thu 12/29/11 11:00 am

This is awesome, thanks Jdubbs!

by **Golden FE Ranger** » Thu 12/29/11 11:18 am

LeoPohl wrote:Just out of curiosity to those who have seen them, do Vinni Lettieri and Lou Nanne play wing or center?

I only saw Lettieri play one game this year, but most of his shifts were at center.

by **Iceburg** » Thu 12/29/11 11:22 am

Lettieri and Nanne both play mostly center. I see Nanne likely moving to a wing in college while I think Lettieri projects more to staying at center. Just a guess.

by **Iceburg** » Thu 12/29/11 12:06 pm

Another holiday international tournament going on in Canada. NTDP U-17 team wins a pre-tournament game leading into the "World Under-17 Hockey Challenge".

"U17s roll in exhibition"

"No shortage of future NHLers at 2012 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge"

EDIT: Looks like you can watch games from this tournament for free if you go through the steps outlined HERE.

by **FargoGopher7** » Thu 12/29/11 12:25 pm

BlueBandit24 wrote:
FargoGopher7 wrote:Was at the force game tonight!

Any thoughts on Lincoln's Tommy Schutt? I liked his all-around game at Minnetonka and he seems to acclimating pretty well to the USHL.

He was there best forward on the ice lastnight. He had two goals along with the game winner. He played like a beast out there kinda reminded me of ambroz

by **JDUBBS1280** » Thu 12/29/11 12:29 pm

The X Factor wrote:This is awesome, thanks Jdubbs!

No prob

by **BlueBandit24** » Thu 12/29/11 1:09 pm

FargoGopher7 wrote:
BlueBandit24 wrote:
FargoGopher7 wrote:Was at the force game tonight!

Any thoughts on Lincoln's Tommy Schutt? I liked his all-around game at Minnetonka and he seems to acclimating pretty well to the USHL.

He was there best forward on the ice lastnight. He had two goals along with the game winner. He played like a beast out there kinda reminded me of ambroz

Thanks!

by **ND GOPHER** » Thu 12/29/11 2:46 pm

FargoGopher7 wrote:
BlueBandit24 wrote:
FargoGopher7 wrote:Was at the force game tonight!

Any thoughts on Lincoln's Tommy Schutt? I liked his all-around game at Minnetonka and he seems to acclimating pretty well to the USHL.

He was there best forward on the ice lastnight. He had two goals along with the game winner. He played like a beast out there kinda reminded me of ambroz

Definitely noticeable last night ( 2G 6 PIM.) Played with an edge, although took dumb penalties that allowed Fargo to stay in the game. His line dominated the offensive zone, too bad he plays for Lincoln....

by **puckluck** » Thu 12/29/11 5:15 pm

thanks for the update on the incoming recruits. Right before I read it, i was checking in on the USHL players to see how things are going on the scoring front. I hate to be a naysayer, but I think AJ Michaelson may not live up to what he was touted as...I hope I am wrong as I was really excited to get him, but all the early speculation seemed to lead to him coming in next year. If that is truly the case, I'm not sure that we have much to be excited about given his success in the USHL. He really appears to be challenged at getting on the score sheet.

by **minnhkyruls** » Thu 12/29/11 6:18 pm

JDUBBS1280 wrote:Gopher Recruiting Update

Justin Kloos - 13-16-29 in 9 games (Lakeville South - MNHS)
Vinni Lettieri - 11-18-29 in 11 games (Minnetonka - MNHS)
Lou Nanne - 5-4-9 in 11 games (Edina - MNHS)
Michael Brodzinski - 6-7-13 in 10 games (Blaine - MNHS)
Jake Bischoff - 2-10-12 in 5 games (Grand Rapids - MNHS) *** Actually only played 4 games and 1 period of 5th before getting injured
Taylor Cammarata - 12-15-27 in 24 games (Waterloo - USHL)
AJ Michaelson - 1-6-7 in 22 games (Waterloo - USHL)
Gabe Guertler - 5-4-9 in 25 games (Fargo - USHL)
Adam Wilcox - 8-6-0 with 2 SO, 2.67 GAA, 9.12 SV% in 14 games (Tri City - USHL). *** Traded from Green Bay mid-season for 1st round pick
Brady Skjei - 1-9-10 in 28 games (USNTDP-U18)
Hudson Fasching - 5-6-11 in 22 games (USNTDP-U17)
Connor Reilly - 26-35-61 in 35 games (Penticton - BCHL)
Ryan Reilly - 21-22-43 in 35 games (Penticton - BCHL)
Mike Reilly - 14-34-48 in 31 games (Penticton - BCHL)

Gopher glasses or not, that is a lot of AWESOME in one post!! :dup:

by **Iceburg** » Fri 12/30/11 12:36 pm

"U17s down Czechs in opener"

by **LeoPohl** » Fri 12/30/11 3:36 pm

minnhkyruls wrote:
JDUBBS1280 wrote:Gopher Recruiting Update

Justin Kloos - 13-16-29 in 9 games (Lakeville South - MNHS)
Vinni Lettieri - 11-18-29 in 11 games (Minnetonka - MNHS)
Lou Nanne - 5-4-9 in 11 games (Edina - MNHS)
Michael Brodzinski - 6-7-13 in 10 games (Blaine - MNHS)
Jake Bischoff - 2-10-12 in 5 games (Grand Rapids - MNHS) *** Actually only played 4 games and 1 period of 5th before getting injured
Taylor Cammarata - 12-15-27 in 24 games (Waterloo - USHL)
AJ Michaelson - 1-6-7 in 22 games (Waterloo - USHL)
Gabe Guertler - 5-4-9 in 25 games (Fargo - USHL)
Adam Wilcox - 8-6-0 with 2 SO, 2.67 GAA, 9.12 SV% in 14 games (Tri City - USHL). *** Traded from Green Bay mid-season for 1st round pick
Brady Skjei - 1-9-10 in 28 games (USNTDP-U18)
Hudson Fasching - 5-6-11 in 22 games (USNTDP-U17)
Connor Reilly - 26-35-61 in 35 games (Penticton - BCHL)
Ryan Reilly - 21-22-43 in 35 games (Penticton - BCHL)
Mike Reilly - 14-34-48 in 31 games (Penticton - BCHL)

Gopher glasses or not, that is a lot of AWESOME in one post!!

To extrapolate on JDUBBS, I thought I'd put a list of a potential 2013-2014 roster when most of these guys would be playing. Bischoff, Brodzkinski, and the Nanne boys left off because of room issues. Budish and Bjugstad are assumed to have left early. Granted there are certainly things that could change, but the team looks flat jacked. The only thing missing is a reserve goaltender.

UMN 2013-2014.pdf: (122.3 KiB) Downloaded 183 times

by **Iceburg** » Fri 12/30/11 10:57 pm

Not a good day for the red, white & blue in international hockey

"U17s edged out by Russia"

In a postive light, Fasching scores.

by **JDUBBS1280** » Sat 12/31/11 10:55 am

LeoPohl wrote:
minnhkyruls wrote:
JDUBBS1280 wrote:Gopher Recruiting Update

Justin Kloos - 13-16-29 in 9 games (Lakeville South - MNHS)
Vinni Lettieri - 11-18-29 in 11 games (Minnetonka - MNHS)
Lou Nanne - 5-4-9 in 11 games (Edina - MNHS)
Michael Brodzinski - 6-7-13 in 10 games (Blaine - MNHS)
Jake Bischoff - 2-10-12 in 5 games (Grand Rapids - MNHS) *** Actually only played 4 games and 1 period of 5th before getting injured
Taylor Cammarata - 12-15-27 in 24 games (Waterloo - USHL)
AJ Michaelson - 1-6-7 in 22 games (Waterloo - USHL)
Gabe Guertler - 5-4-9 in 25 games (Fargo - USHL)
Adam Wilcox - 8-6-0 with 2 SO, 2.67 GAA, 9.12 SV% in 14 games (Tri City - USHL). *** Traded from Green Bay mid-season for 1st round pick
Brady Skjei - 1-9-10 in 28 games (USNTDP-U18)
Hudson Fasching - 5-6-11 in 22 games (USNTDP-U17)
Connor Reilly - 26-35-61 in 35 games (Penticton - BCHL)
Ryan Reilly - 21-22-43 in 35 games (Penticton - BCHL)
Mike Reilly - 14-34-48 in 31 games (Penticton - BCHL)

Gopher glasses or not, that is a lot of AWESOME in one post!!

To extrapolate on JDUBBS, I thought I'd put a list of a potential 2013-2014 roster when most of these guys would be playing. Bischoff, Brodzkinski, and the Nanne boys left off because of room issues. Budish and Bjugstad are assumed to have left early. Granted there are certainly things that could change, but the team looks flat jacked. The only thing missing is a reserve goaltender.
UMN 2013-2014.pdf

Awesome job Leo!

by **LeoPohl** » Sat 12/31/11 11:13 am

JDUBBS1280 wrote:
LeoPohl wrote:
minnhkyruls wrote:
JDUBBS1280 wrote:Gopher Recruiting Update

Justin Kloos - 13-16-29 in 9 games (Lakeville South - MNHS)
Vinni Lettieri - 11-18-29 in 11 games (Minnetonka - MNHS)
Lou Nanne - 5-4-9 in 11 games (Edina - MNHS)
Michael Brodzinski - 6-7-13 in 10 games (Blaine - MNHS)
Jake Bischoff - 2-10-12 in 5 games (Grand Rapids - MNHS) *** Actually only played 4 games and 1 period of 5th before getting injured
Taylor Cammarata - 12-15-27 in 24 games (Waterloo - USHL)
AJ Michaelson - 1-6-7 in 22 games (Waterloo - USHL)
Gabe Guertler - 5-4-9 in 25 games (Fargo - USHL)
Adam Wilcox - 8-6-0 with 2 SO, 2.67 GAA, 9.12 SV% in 14 games (Tri City - USHL). *** Traded from Green Bay mid-season for 1st round pick
Brady Skjei - 1-9-10 in 28 games (USNTDP-U18)
Hudson Fasching - 5-6-11 in 22 games (USNTDP-U17)
Connor Reilly - 26-35-61 in 35 games (Penticton - BCHL)
Ryan Reilly - 21-22-43 in 35 games (Penticton - BCHL)
Mike Reilly - 14-34-48 in 31 games (Penticton - BCHL)

Gopher glasses or not, that is a lot of AWESOME in one post!!

To extrapolate on JDUBBS, I thought I'd put a list of a potential 2013-2014 roster when most of these guys would be playing. Bischoff, Brodzkinski, and the Nanne boys left off because of room issues. Budish and Bjugstad are assumed to have left early. Granted there are certainly things that could change, but the team looks flat jacked. The only thing missing is a reserve goaltender.
UMN 2013-2014.pdf

Awesome job Leo!

Thanks. It should have included the other recruits, but somehow I spent an hour trying to figure out how to make the "M" logo right and by that time the WJ game was starting. (That's why I wanted to know what position the Nanne boys played--Thanks Iceburg.)

I still can't believe it's been downloaded 88 times so far. :shock:

by **Hammy** » Sat 12/31/11 12:06 pm

LeoPohl wrote:To extrapolate on JDUBBS, I thought I'd put a list of a potential 2013-2014 roster when most of these guys would be playing. Bischoff, Brodzkinski, and the Nanne boys left off because of room issues. Budish and Bjugstad are assumed to have left early. Granted there are certainly things that could change, but the team looks flat jacked. The only thing missing is a reserve goaltender.
UMN 2013-2014.pdf

Realistically, I doubt Haula is around for 2013-2014. Same with Alt.

If Schmidt keeps playing/improving as he has, I'd suspect he'll get a free agent deal before 2013.

Holl is a wild card. Hasn't done enough to warrant early departure talk but high enough draft pick where you can't rule it out either.

by **LeoPohl** » Sat 12/31/11 1:11 pm

Hammy wrote:
LeoPohl wrote:To extrapolate on JDUBBS, I thought I'd put a list of a potential 2013-2014 roster when most of these guys would be playing. Bischoff, Brodzkinski, and the Nanne boys left off because of room issues. Budish and Bjugstad are assumed to have left early. Granted there are certainly things that could change, but the team looks flat jacked. The only thing missing is a reserve goaltender.
UMN 2013-2014.pdf

Realistically, I doubt Haula is around for 2013-2014. Same with Alt.

If Schmidt keeps playing/improving as he has, I'd suspect he'll get a free agent deal before 2013.

Holl is a wild card. Hasn't done enough to warrant early departure talk but high enough draft pick where you can't rule it out either.

I'm not going to argue that. Haula is tough to gauge because there are clearly deficiencies in his game that he needs to fix and he's in an organization that (hopefully) has enough young talent to keep his signing a low priority. Schmidt is tough to gauge because he is undrafted, and it's tough to look at all 30 teams and pick one to take him, although he could very well be similar to Joe Piskula and Jason Garrison who both left after their junior seasons after going undrafted. Holl and Alt are fairly difficult to gauge, as well. Alt has seemingly regressed, but has his rights owned by a team who is desperate for defensemen. Holl's rights are owned by a team that seemingly is in good shape on defense, but is a high enough pick for a team to take him early, despite his very slow progression--like you said. One thing that may impact the Blackhawk's decision with Holl is that the Dylan Olsen experiment has gone less than desired, but that could also mean they'd be needing a RD sooner rather than later, as well. Another thing in favor of both Alt and Holl staying is that neither Vancouver or San Jose went after White and Montreal stayed pretty far away from Fischer, as well. Even though Schmidt is clearly the best of the the three right now, I'd actually say the two RD are more important, as otherwise the team could see all six regular defensemen shoot left-handed if Alt and Holl both leave early. The team would still have Marshall, Skjei, Parenteau, and Reilly to pick up the slack of Schmidt if/when he leaves early.
I think all of us expect Bjugstad to be gone after this season, and Budish will be in a Stoa situation by 2013 where he will have graduated and not have much reason to stay, so they are a lot easier to predict. I'd also keep an eye on the discussion the NHL GMs are having about raising the draft age to 19 in the new CBA. If it goes through (and it looks like it has a good chance to), it would take effect in 2013, basically rendering the 2013 draft as rounds 8-14 of 2012. Teams could be looking more closely for an undrafted free-agent like Schmidt or be looking to sign their own draft picks that they believe are not too far off from NHL ready.

by **Hammy** » Sat 12/31/11 1:42 pm

Undrafted guys are often more of a threat to leave than people think because all it takes is one team. If a guy starts showing some success like Schmidt has, offers are going to come. If not this off-season, very likely the next one if he keeps it up at the current rate. Hard to believe given his frosh year but a distinct possibility at the rate he is going.

In terms of Haula, I just think it is unlikely to expect a guy that is already ringing up good performances to stay all the way to through senior year. I'd like to see it but I'm not about to count on it.

The good thing is I think we are well covered defensively for a departure or two. I do want to see them add another forward or two with some size, grit, and maturity to the team. They've got the skill guys nailed down for the next few years. Now it comes down to rounding things out with another Serratore or two that will bring it every game... do the dirty work and throw their weight around. I think they are going to go that route too.

by **LeoPohl** » Sat 12/31/11 2:44 pm

Hammy wrote:Undrafted guys are often more of a threat to leave than people think because all it takes is one team. If a guy starts showing some success like Schmidt has, offers are going to come. If not this off-season, very likely the next one if he keeps it up at the current rate. Hard to believe given his frosh year but a distinct possibility at the rate he is going.

100% agree. The hard part is to pin down which team would actually be the one to sign him.

In terms of Haula, I just think it is unlikely to expect a guy that is already ringing up good performances to stay all the way to through senior year. I'd like to see it but I'm not about to count on it.

I wouldn't count on it either, but I do think it is also a legitimate possibility. The parts that give me some hope is that he is inconsistent offensively, usually poor defensively, and is owned by a team with several young players at his position that are just about the same age that are likely ahead of him on the depth chart now.

The good thing is I think we are well covered defensively for a departure or two.

True, although I'd like to see a RD commit soon. Would there be a chance a right-handed Parenteau would be available and come?

I do want to see them add another forward or two with some size, grit, and maturity to the team. They've got the skill guys nailed down for the next few years. Now it comes down to rounding things out with another Serratore or two that will bring it every game... do the dirty work and throw their weight around. I think they are going to go that route too.

I asked about that several posts back!

Are there any the team is going after now for next season? I'd love to see a right-handed Serratore next season to compliment all the left-handed scorers.

by **Iceburg** » Sun 1/01/12 9:34 pm

U.S. beats Canada West 7-3. I'll post a link for a story and box score when one becomes available. Fasching scores at least one of the goals.

by **Bash Brother** » Sun 1/01/12 10:18 pm

Iceburg wrote:U.S. beats Canada West 7-3. I'll post a link for a story and box score when one becomes available. Fasching scores at least one of the goals.

Fasching had 1. Louis had 3. Compher had 1. Chatham had 1. And Luke voltin had 1.

I'm fairly certain those were the scorers but not in that order.

by **Iceburg** » Sun 1/01/12 11:05 pm

Iceburg wrote:U.S. beats Canada West 7-3. I'll post a LINK for a story and box score when one becomes available. Fasching scores at least one of the goals.

by **Bash Brother** » Sun 1/01/12 11:21 pm

Do I get a prize?

by **Chris Eckes** » Mon 1/02/12 9:49 am

Not to spark a riot here, but last year I spoke with a family friend of Erik Haula who had mentioned that "Haula's plan" all along was to play 2 years of college and then turn pro. I wouldn't think he's done enough at the college level to turn after this season, but stranger things have happened. Either way, I wouldn't expect him to be here as a senior. Take it for what it's worth

by **g_manpucker** » Mon 1/02/12 10:39 am

The X Factor wrote:Not to spark a riot here, but last year I spoke with a family friend of Erik Haula who had mentioned that "Haula's plan" all along was to play 2 years of college and then turn pro. I wouldn't think he's done enough at the college level to turn after this season, but stranger things have happened. Either way, I wouldn't expect him to be here as a senior. Take it for what it's worth

Ness should still be in college this year and look where he is right now. Haula is a pretty player than Ness was, so I guess you can't say that this isn't possible. I guess to me you can't blame some of these kids going to play minor league hockey; who wouldn't want to get paid to play a game, no matter how little the pay is. My problem with these kids is, to me, it just shows their selfishness no respect for the teams they were playing for. Sorry for my little rant. :evil:

by **Grittyguy** » Mon 1/02/12 4:11 pm

The X Factor wrote:Not to spark a riot here, but last year I spoke with a family friend of Erik Haula who had mentioned that "Haula's plan" all along was to play 2 years of college and then turn pro. I wouldn't think he's done enough at the college level to turn after this season, but stranger things have happened. Either way, I wouldn't expect him to be here as a senior. Take it for what it's worth

Erik Haula's plan might not be the same as Chuck Fletcher's. I'm guessing Fletcher's matters more. With all the quality prospects the Wild have I doubt they are in a big rush to sign Haula. If he wants to go back to Finland and play that's a different story.

by **sec 16 row16 seat 16 17** » Mon 1/02/12 4:13 pm

winning should keep HAULA here.

by **frozen4champs** » Mon 1/02/12 4:20 pm

sec 16 row16 seat 16 17 wrote:winning should keep HAULA here.

That is wishful thinking. I treat Haula like Vanek & even Nodl. They came over from Europe to play in the USHL and then college as a way to get to the NHL. Haula is no Vanek, but my best guess is that he would be eager to jump after this year. I agree that he needs 1 more year and being an asst capt next year would help him.

by **gopherguy13** » Mon 1/02/12 7:28 pm

I would not be surprised if Haula is gone after this year. After taking one class with him, and seeing his attitude (when he was there), I get the vibe that he is not a big fan of the "school side" of playing at the U.

I never talked to the guy, so that's all speculation on my part. Just wouldn't surprise me to see him leave if the Wild were willing to sign him.

by **Hammy** » Mon 1/02/12 7:35 pm

I'm not sure the Wild will be in any rush to sign a guy whose rights they will still have a few more years. But I do think he'll be gone before his senior year.

by **JDUBBS1280** » Mon 1/02/12 8:54 pm

Hudson Fasching with a Hat Trick against Canada Pacific in the World U17 Challenge thus far tonight (game isn't over). I believe that brings him to 5 goals thus far in the tourney.

by **streakygopher** » Mon 1/02/12 9:37 pm

Hammy wrote:I'm not sure the Wild will be in any rush to sign a guy whose rights they will still have a few more years. But I do think he'll be gone before his senior year.

Haula hasn't shown me much in terms of NHL readiness. I think he's undersized, average speed, average hockey IQ....Irmen was a better college hockey player and he couldn't make it in the NHL. We have some nice depth at forward so Haula won't be one of the guys I'll get worked up over if he leaves early.

by **Iceburg** » Tue 1/03/12 12:57 pm

JDUBBS1280 wrote:Hudson Fasching with a Hat Trick against Canada Pacific in the World U17 Challenge thus far tonight (game isn't over). I believe that brings him to 5 goals thus far in the tourney.

U.S. 4, Canada Pacific 2 final, LINK for story and stats.

by **JDUBBS1280** » Tue 1/03/12 1:34 pm

Iceburg wrote:
JDUBBS1280 wrote:Hudson Fasching with a Hat Trick against Canada Pacific in the World U17 Challenge thus far tonight (game isn't over). I believe that brings him to 5 goals thus far in the tourney.

U.S. 4, Canada Pacific 2 final, LINK for story and stats.

Must have rewarded one of Hudson's goals to someone else.

Bummer. Excited to see him play against Sweden today.

Game available for free at FastHockey.com for those interested.

by **frozen4champs** » Tue 1/03/12 4:07 pm

Wilcox named USHL goalie of the week.

http://www.ushl.com/news.php?action=detail&news_id=580

by **Iceburg** » Tue 1/03/12 8:25 pm

JDUBBS1280 wrote:Excited to see him play against Sweden today.

U.S. ties Sweden 1-1, advances on shootout (LINK). Faces Russia-Ontario winner tomorrow for gold.

EDIT: Russia 4, Ontario 3 in overtime in the other semifinal (LINK)

by **Iceburg** » Wed 1/04/12 9:50 pm

Russia 7, U.S. 4

LINK

by **frozen4champs** » Thu 1/05/12 4:01 pm

USHL releases players involved in prospects game. A couple of Gopher recruits will be playing.

http://www.ushl.com/news.php?news_id=586

by **LeoPohl** » Thu 1/05/12 4:13 pm

frozen4champs wrote:USHL releases players involved in prospects game. A couple of Gopher recruits will be playing.

http://www.ushl.com/news.php?news_id=586

I'm a little surprised Michaelson's on there considering his play. I know he went in with the hype of the world, but he's tied for twelfth on his own team in scoring, eighth among forwards. Think about that for a while.

by **frozen4champs** » Thu 1/05/12 4:40 pm

LeoPohl wrote:
frozen4champs wrote:USHL releases players involved in prospects game. A couple of Gopher recruits will be playing.

http://www.ushl.com/news.php?news_id=586

I'm a little surprised Michaelson's on there considering his play. I know he went in with the hype of the world, but he's tied for twelfth on his own team in scoring, eighth among forwards. Think about that for a while.

A few years ago they had a similiar event here in Sioux Falls and Blake Thompson :shock:

was on the team.

by **Hammy** » Thu 1/05/12 8:21 pm

frozen4champs wrote:
LeoPohl wrote:
frozen4champs wrote:USHL releases players involved in prospects game. A couple of Gopher recruits will be playing.

http://www.ushl.com/news.php?news_id=586

I'm a little surprised Michaelson's on there considering his play. I know he went in with the hype of the world, but he's tied for twelfth on his own team in scoring, eighth among forwards. Think about that for a while.

A few years ago they had a similiar event here in Sioux Falls and Blake Thompson was on the team.

The selection process for the players was completed in cooperation with USHL General Managers, NHL scouts and decision makers, and NHL Central Scouting. Which means they want to see AJ since it is his draft year. Based on production, I don't think anybody would argue that he shouldn't be there

by **dryfly** » Thu 1/05/12 9:10 pm

Hammy wrote:
frozen4champs wrote:
LeoPohl wrote:
frozen4champs wrote:USHL releases players involved in prospects game. A couple of Gopher recruits will be playing.

http://www.ushl.com/news.php?news_id=586

I'm a little surprised Michaelson's on there considering his play. I know he went in with the hype of the world, but he's tied for twelfth on his own team in scoring, eighth among forwards. Think about that for a while.

A few years ago they had a similiar event here in Sioux Falls and Blake Thompson was on the team.

The selection process for the players was completed in cooperation with USHL General Managers, NHL scouts and decision makers, and NHL Central Scouting. Which means they want to see AJ since it is his draft year. Based on production, I don't think anybody would argue that he shouldn't be there

Off year? Injuries? Or really not that good?

by **WestCoastGopherGuy** » Thu 1/05/12 11:41 pm

does he do much away from the puck or use his size? i havent seen him play. he was highly coveted as a recruit- there must be some intangibles there..

Dave

by **Iceburg** » Fri 1/06/12 3:13 am

Wednesday night Penticton highlights.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3p6FZxxw ... r_embedded

by **gopher_fan_in_sue_land** » Fri 1/06/12 10:17 am

Iceburg wrote:Wednesday night Penticton highlights.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3p6FZxxw ... r_embedded

Mike Reilly is a STUD. :shock:

by **gopherguy13** » Fri 1/06/12 12:04 pm

Iceburg wrote:Wednesday night Penticton highlights.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3p6FZxxw ... r_embedded

Love the graphic after the fight.
"FISTICUFFS" :lol:

by **Neely** » Fri 1/06/12 1:03 pm

gopher_fan_in_sue_land wrote:
Iceburg wrote:Wednesday night Penticton highlights.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3p6FZxxw ... r_embedded

Mike Reilly is a STUD.

I was thinking he was a little overrated.

I mean, put the puck in the net, kid.

by **Hammy** » Sun 1/08/12 6:19 pm

dryfly wrote:Off year? Injuries? Or really not that good?

It is simply a matter of people are going to need to adjust their expectations of him in college. He can still be a very effective college player but it is probably going to be in a different role than we all originally thought. Which is fine because they have recruited other guys that should be pretty good scorers in college. His size and speed will help in other areas.

by **steps1299** » Mon 1/09/12 9:36 am

Sounds like he is going to be a Taylor Matson type player.

by **minnhkyruls** » Mon 1/09/12 11:07 am

steps1299 wrote:Sounds like he is going to be a Taylor Matson type player.

That can't be a bad thing. I hope he is, any additional offense from a player like that is always nice.

by **Hammy** » Mon 1/09/12 11:49 am

steps1299 wrote:Sounds like he is going to be a Taylor Matson type player.

If he makes it here, I think he'll be a solid player.

by **bigred006** » Mon 1/09/12 6:05 pm

Are you implying that Michaelson might not end up here eventually?

by **Hammy** » Mon 1/09/12 6:17 pm

bigred006 wrote:Are you implying that Michaelson might not end up here eventually?

You never know... he flirted with the idea of playing for Portland (WHL) this past summer. Maybe if he doesn't see as much opportunity as he once did here, he may go that way in the end. Just saying you can't rule that out in his case.

by **bigred006** » Mon 1/09/12 6:55 pm

That is interesting. Do you know if he was guaranteed to be coming in next year when he was offered? It would seem with his lack of production in the USHL that he may benefit from taking another year there. Of course pushing him back may just push him even more towards the WHL.

by **Hammy** » Mon 1/09/12 7:20 pm

bigred006 wrote:That is interesting. Do you know if he was guaranteed to be coming in next year when he was offered? It would seem with his lack of production in the USHL that he may benefit from taking another year there. Of course pushing him back may just push him even more towards the WHL.

Pushing him back could be a part of the equation as well. Quite frankly, I don't know why they would fight it if he was asked. If you can't do more than .3 points per game in the USHL (for a good team) at 18, then I'm not sure you are going to do much in the WCHA at age 19.

Who is online