Denver vs. UNLV

Saturday, 6 p.m., Magness Arena

Streaming: NCHC.tv and Evoca.tv

Points of interest

Two things stand out with this exhibition.

First, it’s an opportunity to see the nine new players on the Pioneers’ roster. The defending national champions have to replace six of their top nine forwards, and it’s a good bet that some of the five freshmen forwards, highlighted by Minnesota Wild pick Rieger Lorenz, and transfers Casey Dornbach (Harvard) and Tristan Broz (Minnesota) will be among them. Dornbach is a grad transfer and former captain of the Crimson. DU should be set on the back end with all three goalies, headlined by senior Magnus Chrona, back, as well as five of their top six defensemen – led by senior captain Justin Lee. The two newcomers on the blue line – Kent Anderson and Lucas Olvestad – are both big and mobile, and they bear watching as well.

Second, this is the second year in a row the Pioneers will play an exhibition against an ACHA level squad. Last year, they drilled Lindenwood, 9-1. It was a dress rehearsal of sorts for Lindenwood, which now is an independent Division I program. Rumors have swirled that UNLV would like to follow the same path, although nothing seems imminent. Nonetheless, the Rebels have the opportunity to see where they stack up against one of the elite programs in college hockey.

More DU hockey: Season preview series

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