Each week during the NCHC season, MagnessMayhem.com will take a look at Denver’s upcoming opponent. First up it’s No. 8 North Dakota.

This weekend’s games

Friday at 6 p.m. and Saturday at 5 p.m. (MDT)

Records

No. 8 North Dakota 4-3 (26 GF, 21 GA); No. 11 Denver 4-2 (30 GF, 18 GA)

Overview

The Fighting Hawks have balanced scoring, four players average a point or more per game, but their goaltending hasn’t been as elite thus far as in the past. That’s a bit surprising given they brought in grad transfer Zach Driscoll (2.74 goals-against average, 2.74 save percentage) from Bemidji State. He’s one of five incoming transfers for North Dakota. Junior Ashton Calder, who has seven points, is another. … It took until Denver’s fifth game before it allowed an even strength goal, then seven of the 10 it allowed in the Northeast came that way. … After outscoring its first two opponents 24-8, DU allowed 10 goals against Providence and Boston College, neither an easy road destination. … After sweeping Niagara, UND split with Bemidji and No. 7 Quinnipiac before losing to Penn State on Saturday.

Keys for Denver

1. Play your game. North Dakota would love nothing better than a physical series. Denver has to use its speed to create chances and be patient. The Fighting Hawks are masterful at clogging shooting lanes.
2. Stay out of the box. The Fighting Hawks’ faithful undoubtedly will be in a frenzy, but the young Pioneers can’t let that rattle them. Given the penalty kill has been effective just 57.7 percent of the time, DU has to avoid penalties. North Dakota is too skilled.

©First Line Editorial 2021