021619: MN X OSU II
A team effort earns the Gophers a sweep over the conference-leading #2 Buckeyes
Really wanted to catch this game because of the upset last night. My notes are going to be more scattered and brief on this one. Click here for last night’s recap. Ohio State lost last night in a tight finish, playing a strong third period while Minnesota are seeming like a sleeping giant who could be ready to rev up into the playoffs. They were outshot pretty heavily on the night (Nappier recorded 12 saves to Robson’s 43) but there was plenty to like about how the Gophers executed. The Buckeyes, who had penalty issues last night, got called early on but for the most part kept it pretty disciplined after. It was Minnesota’s night to be taking untimely penalties. They were 3-5 on the PK. Things weren’t so different though, Minnesota seized the opportunity to establish themselves on the board and then held on after the Buckeyes couldn’t get back into the game in a timely manner.
The Ranta - Novak - Reedy - line to open the game was apparently inspired: Tommy Novak spots Sampo Ranta exploding past the two Buckeye defenders perfectly and it was basically unstoppable. Glittering pass 2-on-0 becomes the 5th goal on the year for Scott Reedy. He continues to come on strong. Later in the period, Nathan Burke and Sammy Walker used their speed and skill to out-maneuver the Ohio State defenders and Burke roofed it in close. 2-0
It was an uncharacteristic night for Nappier: getting scored on more than twice, that is. Brent Gates would blip one past Nappier from Sheehy and Nanne off the rush to make it 3-0 in the 2nd.
OSU’s powerplay got a chance soon after and they got to work immediately. There are times when they look so capable and polished. Mason Jobst handled the puck for maybe 1.5 seconds longer than you would want but he picked his spot, loaded up: 3-1.
Jack Ramsey got called for a trip on Dakota Joshua which was somewhat questionable, I didn’t see much contact to trip, it seemed more like he really was pushing it with his skating and likely to fall getting past Ramsey. OSU PP really wasted no time, again. Carson Meyer ripped a centering pass home: 3-2
BMW line has to be the best going in the conference right now, no disrespect to the KHLers. Burke’s finishing was so on point and the two Minnesotans continue to find ways to be massively effective when it matters.
Other notes
Matt Robson came up with some major stops late.
Rem Pitlick +++++++ That take-away and entire play to create the pass for Sheehy to finish. Guy is insane, I hope he doesn’t get pushed into pro hockey because he’ll absolutely go off next year with an improved surrounding cast. Him and Ben Meyers? Him and anyone, really. On the other hand, he’s one guy I could see somehow sneaking his way onto an NHL team next year. His growth as a player has been incredible. Either way I wouldn’t bet against his NHL prospects.
Ronnie Hein ++++ First saw Hein back in 2013 and he is one of the most pleasant surprises I’ve come across. Always looked good in his own right but he just gets better and better. Should break 20 points this season but if he’s back as a senior he’ll be a huge piece on and off the scoresheet next year. Someone who has stepped up in the wake of some big losses at forward.
Jack Ramsey ++ Another night where he was noticeable, winning a lot of the little battles and that helped them maintain momentum on a weekend where they needed all of it.
Tommy Nappier Mentally, there has to be a shock when the game starts with two hard-to-stop goals against in the first period. On the other hand, Nappier has done so well this season, I wonder if he was even fazed. Thought he was alright.