The biggest thing that has changed between then and now for Lowell is freshman Connor Hellebuyck who has taken over the starting job in net, defeating last year's playoff hero, Doug Carr. In fact, Hellebuyck has not lost a game since 11/30 @ New Hampshire. This weekend, he stopped 39 of 40 BU shots, with Friday being a 3-0 shutout win for Hellebuyck and the River Hawks. When I look at this Lowell team, I see a squad that has a really deep group of forwards (as mentioned above), a defensive corps that ranks up with the best in Hockey East, led by Jr Chad Ruwhedel and So Jake Suter. The River Hawks are currently third in the league in goals given up per game (2.34) and are also third in goals scored per game (3.07) Lowell is as complete a team as BC will see all season long. They can score, they can defend, they are solid both on the PK and the PP, and they continue to get great goaltending night in and night out. This all makes for a pretty lethal combination.
When I take a look at this matchup, I see two teams that are very even. I mean they're two of the best teams not just in Hockey East but in the whole country. I look for tomorrow to be a tough, up tempo style game with more goals scored than you saw in BC vs Merrimack. Lowell plays a style similar to Boston College. They skate well north-south and they can create something out of nothing, much like BC can. This isn't going to be a game like Sunday's where we had a whistle every 15 seconds with a ton of dumping and changing. I expect to see a really entertaining style of hockey between two very good hockey teams come 7 O'clock tomorrow night.
Keys for the Eagles-
1. Staying out of the box. I might as well copy and paste this to every preview. The only two goal's given up vs Merrimack the past two weeks were power play goals. Can't be giving teams 5 on 3s for over a minute late in the third period, such as BC did Sunday.
2. Containing Lowell's big guns. This is something BU did just a horrible job of this weekend. Wilson and Pendenza lit O'Connor and Maguire up like Christmas trees on Friday and Saturday. Obviously, they're facing a different beast this time around with BC's two big lines.
3. I'd like to see BC open things up and get some more offensive chances tomorrow night. It was hard for the Eagles to get things rolling until the midway point last night. I'd like to see them get going and generating chances right from the get-go.
Scouting Lowell-
Pairwise Rank- 11th
Hockey East rank- 4th
Season series vs BC- 0-2
Leading Scorer- Joe Pendenza-28 points
Best wins- vs Providence @ Colorado College
Worst Loss- None really. Lost 2 vs Maine.
Go Eagles !
Soaring with the UMass Lowell River Hawks: A Comprehensive Preview
As the world of college sports prepares for another exhilarating season, one team that has consistently captured the hearts of fans and inspired athletes is the UMass Lowell River Hawks. With a rich history of athletic excellence and a commitment to academic success, the River Hawks have become a source of pride for their university and their community. In this article, we'll take an in-depth look at the UMass Lowell River Hawks, previewing their upcoming season, exploring their achievements, and answering some frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide a comprehensive overview of this dynamic athletic program.
FAQ #1: Who are the UMass Lowell River Hawks, and what makes them unique?
The UMass Lowell River Hawks are the athletic teams representing the University of Massachusetts Lowell, located in Lowell, Massachusetts. What sets them apart is their dedication to fostering both athletic excellence and academic success among their student-athletes. The River Hawks are known for their competitive spirit and their contributions to the broader community.
A Legacy of Excellence
Before diving into the upcoming season, let's first acknowledge the legacy of excellence that the UMass Lowell River Hawks have built over the years.
Championship History
The River Hawks have a storied history in NCAA Division I athletics, with numerous conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances across various sports. Their commitment to competing at the highest level has resulted in a legacy of success.
FAQ #2: Which sports are the UMass Lowell River Hawks known for, and what championships have they won?
The UMass Lowell River Hawks compete in a range of sports, including ice hockey, basketball, soccer, and more. Notable achievements include multiple appearances in the NCAA Men's Ice Hockey Tournament, with the team consistently ranking among the top in the nation.
Hockey Dominance
Ice hockey is undoubtedly one of the crown jewels of UMass Lowell athletics. The River Hawks' men's ice hockey team has a storied history of success, regularly contending for conference championships and earning national recognition.
Commitment to Academic Excellence
While excelling in sports, the UMass Lowell River Hawks also prioritize academic achievement. Student-athletes are encouraged to excel in the classroom, and the university's dedication to their academic success sets them apart.
FAQ #3: How does UMass Lowell prioritize academic excellence among its student-athletes?
UMass Lowell places a strong emphasis on the academic success of its student-athletes. The university provides academic support services, including tutoring and study resources, to help athletes balance their coursework and athletic commitments. This commitment to education ensures that student-athletes have opportunities beyond their athletic careers.
Previewing the Upcoming Season
With a rich history as a backdrop, let's now turn our attention to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the UMass Lowell River Hawks' upcoming season.
Men's Ice Hockey: A Season to Watch
As mentioned earlier, men's ice hockey is a flagship sport for the River Hawks. The team consistently ranks among the top in the nation and is a perennial contender in the highly competitive Hockey East conference.
FAQ #4: What can fans expect from the UMass Lowell men's ice hockey team in the upcoming season?
Fans can expect the UMass Lowell men's ice hockey team to be a strong contender in the Hockey East conference and a force to be reckoned with on the national stage. With a history of success and a roster of talented players, the team is poised for an exciting and competitive season.
Basketball: Rising Stars
While ice hockey may take the spotlight, the UMass Lowell River Hawks' basketball teams are also gaining recognition. The men's and women's basketball programs have been steadily improving and are set to make their mark in their respective conferences.
FAQ #5: What are the prospects for the UMass Lowell men's and women's basketball teams in the upcoming season?
Both the men's and women's basketball teams are on the rise and have the potential to make significant strides in their respective conferences. With talented rosters and dedicated coaching staff, fans can look forward to competitive and exciting games.
Soccer: Kicking It Up a Notch
UMass Lowell's soccer programs have also been making waves, with both the men's and women's teams showcasing their skills on the field. The men's team, in particular, has garnered attention for its competitive play.
FAQ #6: What are the expectations for UMass Lowell's soccer programs in the upcoming season?
Expectations are high for both the men's and women's soccer teams at UMass Lowell. The men's team, in particular, has been a strong competitor in its conference, and fans can anticipate continued success and thrilling matches in the upcoming season.
A Thriving Athletic Community
Beyond the individual accomplishments and successes of UMass Lowell's athletic programs, it's important to recognize the broader impact that these teams have on the university and the community.
Community Engagement
The UMass Lowell River Hawks actively engage with the community through outreach programs, youth clinics, and volunteer efforts. These initiatives foster a sense of unity and provide role models for aspiring athletes.
FAQ #7: How do the UMass Lowell River Hawks engage with the community?
The UMass Lowell River Hawks engage with the community through a variety of initiatives, including youth clinics, community service projects, and partnerships with local organizations. These efforts help strengthen the bond between the university and its surrounding community.
Student-Athlete Development
The development of student-athletes goes beyond sports. UMass Lowell prioritizes the personal and professional growth of its athletes, preparing them for success both on and off the field.
FAQ #8: How does UMass Lowell support the personal and professional development of its student-athletes?
UMass Lowell supports the personal and professional development of its student-athletes through mentorship programs, leadership training, and career development resources. These opportunities help student-athletes excel in their future endeavors beyond their athletic careers.
As we eagerly await the start of another exciting season, the UMass Lowell River Hawks serve as a shining example of excellence in both athletics and academics. With a legacy of championship victories, a commitment to academic success, and a thriving engagement with the community, the River Hawks continue to inspire and unite their supporters.
Whether you're a dedicated fan, a student-athlete with dreams of success, or simply someone who appreciates the spirit of competition, the UMass Lowell River Hawks are a team to watch and admire. As they embark on their upcoming season, they remind us of the enduring power of teamwork, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence.
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