Hobey Baker Watch: Week 17
We’re almost at the finish line and players are getting every point they can to help their team win. Every second of hockey counts more than ever. Who has been perfecting their craft down the stretch?
Adam Fantilli, Forward, Michigan
Fantilli scored two points over the weekend against the Michigan State Spartans, adding to his 47 points on the year in just 25 games. He’s been a big reason why the Wolverines are as hot as ever winning seven straight games.
Averaging 1.88 points per game leads the entire NCAA. Fantilli is simply unstoppable. He’ll find a way to create chances, and if it’s not a goal, he’ll send a nice dish to a teammate for an assist. With the Big Ten standings tighter than ever, Fantilli will be counted on in these last few weeks of the season.
Matt Coronato, Forward, Harvard
Coronato had an amazing Beanpot tallying four goals over two games. 30 points in 25 games isn’t as much as other players fighting for the Hobey Baker, but just the way he was able to rise to the occasion on one of the biggest stages should be admired.
He’s been a great compliment to Sean Farrell all season long and should get recognized as a prime candidate for the award.
Logan Cooley, Forward, Minnesota
By the time you’ve finished reading this, Logan Cooley has already dangled around your entire team. The “e” in his last name stands for elite, and he’s as “cool” as it gets. 38 points in 29 games has Minnesota and Arizona fans celebrating every week.
The one-two punch with Jimmy Snuggerud is the Golden Gophers’ bread and butter. Just like Fantilli, he is going to be looked at a lot down the road.
Jason Polin, Forward, Western Michigan
Scoring goals isn’t an easy task, but at the rate Polin does it, it’s clockwork. He still leads the NCAA in goals with 24 through 30 games. He’s the captain of the Broncos, showing leadership and clutch every game.
Polin has helped push Western Michigan to No. 8 in the USCHO and the Pairwise. The Broncos are 7-1 in the new calendar year and hope to continue their strong play in the playoffs.
Devon Levi, Goaltender, Northeastern
Good luck scoring against Devon Levi. He’s casually carrying a .930 save percentage and a 2.32 goals-against average. He shut down the competition en route to Northeastern’s Beanpot title win and was also named MVP of the tournament.
Levi looks like a player who will be able to translate very well in the NHL, his skills match those of some NHL goalies. I wouldn’t be surprised if he ends up in Calder or Vezina trophy talks soon.
Anthony Desher is a second-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email acd5698@psu.edu.
