Skille, Smith, Gardiner to represent USA at IIHF Men's World Championships

The United States squad that will compete in the 2011 IIHF Men's World Championships April 29 - May 15, in Kosice and Bratislava, Slovakia will have a major Wisconsin presence as two former Badgers (Jack Skille, Jake Gardiner) and one current member (Craig Smith) have been named to the roster.

Florida Panthers forward Jack Skille was named to the roster earlier in the week. The Madison native is no stranger to international competitions as he won a bronze medal with the United States World Junior team in 2007 and a gold medal with the USA U18 squad at the World Championships in 2005. A product of Verona high school and the United States National Team Development Program, Skille recorded 19 points in 62 games between the Chicago Blackhawks and after a mid-season trade, the Florida Panthers.

Looking for another puck moving defenseman that can skate, the United States added Toronto Marlies defenseman Jake Gardiner to the roster today. Gardiner recently finished up his junior season with the Wisconsin Badgers before signing a pro contract with Toronto. The Minnetonka, Minnesota native recorded 41 points in 41 games for the Badgers during his junior season and was named a second team All-American by the American Hockey Coaches Association. Gardiner won a gold medal for the United States during the 2010 World Junior Championships.

In somewhat of an eyebrow raising move, the team USA brass has also added current Wisconsin forward Craig Smith to the roster. The Madison native paced all Badger forwards in scoring this season with 43 points in 41 games including a team leading 19 goals. The Madison La Follette product is only one of two players not currently playing pro hockey to be named to the roster. Boston College forward Chris Kreider is the other. Smith represented his country in the World Junior A challenge in 2007 and 2008, winning a gold medal with the 08 squad when was named to the all tournament team.

Skille, Gardiner, and Smith will begin play on Saturday, April 30th when they kick off the tournament against Austria at 9:15 AM CST. The United States will also play Norway and Sweden in first round action.

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09/10 Men's Preveiws: #33 Brett Bennett

Vitals:

Position: Goalie
Year in School: Junior
Catches Left
Height: 6-2
Weight: 187
Hometown: Williamsville, NY
Major: History
Previous Team: Indiana Ice (USHL) last season

NHL Considerations: 5th round pick of Phoenix (sorry you got stuck in that organization Brett) in the 2006 NHL Draft.

08/09 Stats: 35-17-2, 2.59 GAA, 0.910 save %
07/08 Stats: 16-10-3, 2.63 GAA, 0.888 save % @ Boston U

09/10 Role: Fighting for the starting spot in goal, and I think he’ll win it as the season goes.

08/09 Recap: After being let go by Boston U, Brett landed in the USHL w/ the Indiana Ice. Its safe to say he had a great season. He was a work horse, he lead the USHL in minutes played and wins by nine over Mike Lee, and was 4th in save %. In the post season, he was nothing short of dominate. In the finals it was a battle between the league’s best in net against Fargo and the aforementioned Mike Lee, but Brett got the better of it and helped his team to the Clark Cup. In the playoffs, he led the playoffs in GAA and wins (obviously) going 9-4-1, 2.36 GAA and .920 save %. He was All USHL 1st Team along w/ Craig Smith.

Biggest Strength: I saw him play once last season, and while the Gamblers didn’t challenge him much that night, I liked his positioning. Reminded me of Brian Elliott; the key word in that sentence is ‘reminded.’ I have a lot of hope for Brett.

Biggest Weakness: As the rumors go, he was let go by Boston U because he had a bad attitude and was not good for the team, or something along those lines. Will he bring the baggage to UW or did a year in the USHL and the second chance clear the slate? I’m all about 2nd chances.

09/10 Thoughts: Brett comes in as the new goalie on the block and should start the season fighting w/ Scott Gudmandson for the starting role. Many have hypothesized that Eaves will rotate one each night, and guessing I’d have to agree, but I think Brett will eventually take the reins and be the regular in net. He has the potential and background to be the next in the line of great Badger goalies.

On message boards, people question his past issues and I’d ask Badger fans to give him a chance before passing judgment.

Prediction: 23 games, 2.35 GAA, 0.917 save %*
*Regular season only

Photo from uwbadgers.com

09/10 Men's Previews: #35 Mitch Thompson

Vitals:

Position: Goalie
Year in School: Freshman
Catches Left
Height: 5-11
Weight: 187
Hometown: Onalaska, WI
Major: Undeclared
Previous Team: Bozeman IceDogs (NPHL) last season

NHL Considerations: Long way to go.

08/09 Stats: 20-7, 2.93 GAA, 0.906 save %

09/10 Role: Redshirt

08/09 Recap: Played last season in the North Pacific Hockey League, and was a late addition to the Badgers as a walk on w/ the opportunity to gain a scholarship as he progresses.

Biggest Strength: Never seen him play.

Biggest Weakness: See above.

09/10 Thoughts: When he committed, it was stated that he would redshirt this season. There really wouldn’t be any PT anyway. Mitch is another home grown walk on, replacing Jeff Henderson and Ryan Jeffery who graduated last season.

Prediction: Redshirt practice goalie

Photo from uwbadgers.com

09/10 Men's Previews: #28 Jordy Murray

Vitals:

Position: Forward
Year in School: Sophomore
Shoots left
Height: 5-9
Weight: 175 lbs
Hometown: Fairbault, MN
Major: Undeclared
Previous Team: Shattuck St. Mary’s in 07/08

NHL Considerations: His brother has played for the Kings and his dad coaches the Blues, he has a ways to go, but he’s on the right track.

08/09 Stats: 40 games, 8-5-13, +1, 40 PIM
07/08 Stats: 60 games, 38-57-95

09/10 Role: 3rd line, PK

08/09 Recap: Jordy played in every game last season as a freshman. Started strong w/ two points against Boston College, and finished strong w/ two goals against North Dakota at the Final Five to earn All-Tourney honors. He was one of the hardest workers on the ice each night and rarely made any mistakes.

Biggest Strength: He’s great in his own end, played the PK the whole season.

Biggest Weakness: He needs to be more consistent, some nights he looks ready to be a bigger contributor on offense, but then disappears. He was a freshman, no big deal.

09/10 Thoughts: Jordy should be ready to take his game to the next level this season and be a bigger part of the offense. I would expect him to be a regular again on the PK, and might even see some PP time. His game suits any role he needs to play on the team. He can grind in the corner, plays great defense and can also be a playmaker. I want to see more of the playmaker this season. I’m hoping that Eaves agrees w/ Chuck and I and puts Jordy on the LW w/ Craig Smith and Derek Stepan. The “kids” line could be a good one.

Prediction: 35 games, 8-14-22*
*All predictions for regular season only

Photo from uwbadgers.com

09/10 Men's Previews: #27 Cody Goloubef

Vitals:

Position: Defenseman
Year in School: Junior
Shoots Right
Height: 6-1
Weight: 189 lbs
Hometown: Oakville, Ontario
Major: Undeclared
Previous Team: Oakville Blades (OPJHL) in 06/07

NHL Considerations: 2nd round pick of Columbus in the 2008 NHL Draft.

08/09 Stats: 36 games, 5-8-13, +6, 38 PIM
07/08 Stats: 40 games, 4-6-10, E, 36 PIM

09/10 Role: 2nd pairing, PP & PK

08/09 Recap: The highlight of Cody’s season was winning gold w/ Team Canada at the WJC, he didn’t put up big stats w/ the team, but was one of the better defensemen, always steady on the blue line. He was the only NCAA player on the team. As a Badger, he found himself paired most of the season w/ Ryan McDonagh and they were outstanding. Cody’s is good in all situations, and was probably the best blue liner on the PK. He was part of the 2nd PP unit, and still didn’t get a chance to show off his offensive skills behind Jamie McBain and Brendan Smith on the depth chart. Had both GWG when UAA visited the KC in December.

Biggest Strength: He is the silent backbone of the Badgers defensive core, you don’t notice him because he rarely makes a mistakes, and I think this season we’ll see what he can do on offense w/ regularity.

Biggest Weakness: None, he does everything well.

09/10 Thoughts: I think Cody is going to have a breakout season. It will be interesting to see what Eaves does w/ the pairings. I think both Cody and McDonagh are too good all around to stay together. Either way, Cody should get the chance to showcase some more offense, but one thing Badgers can count on is continued solid play in his own end and on the PK. If Cody ends up paired w/ Brendan Smith, hopefully some old chemistry can return to the former Ontario Juniors teammates. I’m really excited about Cody this season, the Badgers have four All-American candidates on the blue line this season.

By the end of the season, I think he’ll remind some Badger fans of Tom Gilbert; solid all around, but w/ much shorter hair. 60 do you think that is a fair possible comparison?

Prediction: 35 games, 8-20-8*
*All predictions for regular season only

Photo from uwbadgers.com

09/10 Men's Previews: #26 Keegan Meuer

Vitals:

Position: Forward
Year in School: Freshman
Shoots Right
Height: 5-10
Weight: 175 lbs
Hometown: Madison, WI
Major: Undeclared
Previous Team: Waterloo (USHL) last season

NHL Considerations: Too early to tell.

08/09 Stats: 54 games, 8-19-27, -8, 107 PIM
07/08 Stats: 52 games, 2-22-24, +7, 49 PIM

09/10 Role: fighting for PT

08/09 Recap: Played last season w/ teammate Craig Smith and UW recruit Tyler Barnes in Waterloo. Had another good season for the Black Hawks, playing in all situations. Will be the third Madison native on the this season.

Biggest Strength: From the one game I saw him play last season, he reminded me a lot of Patrick Johnson. His offensive skills are ok, but he does well in his own zone, and leaves his best effort out on the ice.

Biggest Weakness: He had a lot of PIM last season in Waterloo, haven’t seen him play enough to offer more of an opinion.

09/10 Thoughts: W/ the depth at forward, I don’t see Keegan getting a ton of PT this season. I’d estimate that he is 16 on the depth chart, but he’s a hard worker, so if some of the regulars in Eaves’ doghouse find themselves there again this season, Keegan would be happy to make the most of the opportunity.

Overall, a good 4 year player for the Badgers. He is the nephew of Badger greats Jeff and Rob Andringa.

Prediction: 4 games, 0-1-1*
*All predictions for regular season only

Photo from uwbadgers.com

09/10 Men's Previews: #55 John Ramage

Vitals:

Position: Defenseman
Year in School: Freshman
Shoots Right
Height: 6-0
Weight: 195 lbs
Hometown: St. Louis, MO
Major: Undeclared
Previous Team: US NTDP last season

NHL Considerations: I was surprised he wasn’t drafted this summer. His dad Rob was the #1 overall pick in the 1974 NHL Draft, he has the bloodlines, and now has the best blue line coach in the NCAA’s.

08/09 Stats: 54 games, 2-10-12

09/10 Role: fighting for the 6th dman spot

08/09 Recap: Skated w/ the US National Team Development Program last season on their U-18 team after winning the Robertson Cup w/ the St. Louis Bandits the previous season in the NAHL. The U18 team won gold at the 2008 World U18 Championships.

Biggest Strength: All scouting reports say that he is a solid stay at home defenseman, something the Badger roster could really use. I heard he has a booming slap shot too.

Biggest Weakness: Having never seen John play, he’ll have a big transition to make to the WCHA especially fighting for PT against a group of future NHL blue liners.

09/10 Thoughts: W/ five top NHL draft picks in front of him, John will be battling w/ three other defensemen for playing time, and based on how well Craig Johnson was playing last season, it will be an uphill battle. I think he’ll see some PT, Eaves will want to get him out there to get experience and see what he can do, but w/ the depth on the blue line and at forward there won’t be many openings. I’m looking forward to seeing John play, I think the Badgers landed another recruiting steal as he was sitting out there uncommitted during the middle of last season.

John will be the first player in modern history to wear a non-traditional #, traditionalist need to get over it.

Prediction: 8 games, 1-2-3*
*All predictions for regular season only

Photo from uwbadgers.com

09/10 Men's Previews: #24 John Mitchell

Vitals:

Position: Forward
Year in School: Senior
Shoots Left
Height: Tall
Weight: 224
Hometown: Neenah, WI
Major: Sociology
Previous Team: Indiana Ice (USHL) in 05

NHL Considerations: Had interest last summer, didn’t hear much this summer, but he has NHL size, and you can’t teach that.

08/09 Stats: 40 games, 15-11-16, +6, 118 PIM
07/08 Stats: 40 games, 8-5-13, +4, 49 PIM

09/10 Role: 2nd line, PP

08/09 Recap: John continued his progression as a hockey player last season, tying for the team lead in goals, and doubling most of his stats from the previous season. He was productive on offense at EV and on the 2nd PP unit, but also led the team in PIM. It’s still amazing how far he has come during the past few seasons.

Biggest Strength: John has a knack to be in the right place at the right time, which led to a lot of goals last season. His size makes him a factor as well.

Biggest Weakness: His decision making still has room for improvement. While his goal and assist totals increased, so did his PIM. He was booted from several games for checking from behind. Sometimes its an accident, but when it happens w/ regularity (among other foolish penalties) that is an issue.

09/10 Thoughts: Not sure what to think of John for the coming season. There were several times last season, sitting next to 60 on a Friday night, when John would make a colossal blunder, and I’d then miss the goal he’d score making up for his blunder because I was ranting about the blunder. As I said above, he really needs to work on decision making, his skating is vastly improved, and he has a nice scoring touch, while he’s a good in his own zone as well. Offensively I’d be surprised to see him improve a ton more, but he certainly has some other parts of his game to refine in his final season, to impress NHL scouts on the way to a contract. He’ll definitely be part of the offense, where, well only Eaves can answer that, and he’ll change his mind (w/ the forward lines) often.

All in all, it has certainly been fun to watch John for the past several seasons, and watch him improve almost from game to game.

Prediction: 34 games, 12-10-22*
*All predictions for regular season only

Photo from uwbadgers.com

09/10 Men's Previews: #23 Derek Lee

Vitals:

Position: Forward
Year in School: Freshman
Shoots Right
Height: 5-10
Weight: 165
Hometown: North Vancouver, BC
Major: undeclared
Previous Team: Victoria Grizzlies (BCHL) last season

NHL Considerations: He’s a talented player, he’ll need some time at UW to gain some strength, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see him land a contract someday.

08/09 Stats: 58 games, 12-47-59, 34 PIM
07/08 Stats: 52 games, 21-56-77, 35 PIM

09/10 Role: 2nd or 3rd line, PP

08/09 Recap: Derek had another good season in the BCHL. His stats were down a little, but he was on a better team and was more consistent as the season went on. The Victoria Grizzles were the BCHL regular season champs.

Biggest Strength: Derek was a highly sought after recruit, and a very smart kid, who has excellent playmaking skills. He’s not going to notch a ton of goals, but teammates will because of him.

Biggest Weakness: He is a smaller forward and will need gain strength, adding muscle to his frame. He’ll get plenty of time in the weight room at UW.

09/10 Thoughts: Similar to Craig Smith, Derek is a talented freshman who could contribute right away to the Badger offense. I’ve learned to temper my expectations for freshman so when they play like Derek Stepan its icing on the cake, but when they are just ok transitioning to the WCHA, I won’t be disappointed either. W/ the depth at forward, anything the Badgers get from Derek will be a bonus, though if he plays well it could be another piece in a run at #7 in Detiolet.

Prediction: 24 games, 4-12-16*
*All predictions for regular season only

Photo from uwbadgers.com

09/10 Men's Previews: #22 Ben Street

Vitals:

Position: Forward
Year in School: 5th Year Senior
Shoots Left
Height: 5-11
Weight: 197
Hometown: Coquitlam, BC
Major: Real Estate
Previous Team: Salmon Arm in 04/05

NHL Considerations: He’ll play at some level of the pros (ECHL or AHL) next season if he chooses that direction.

08/09 Stats: 4 games, 1-0-1, E, 8 PIM
07/08 Stats: 40 games, 13-17-30, -3, 36 PIM

09/10 Role: 2nd line, PP, PK

08/09 Recap: Came into the season as a co-Captain w/ Blake Geoffrion, but saw his season end early when he tore up his knee in the fourth game of the season. Was granted a medical redshirt.

Biggest Strength: Ben is one of the best two way forwards on the team, he gives the Badgers everything he has in both ends.

Biggest Weakness: Since he missed most of the season I can’t really remember, which either means he doesn’t have any glaring weaknesses or I just have a faulty memory tonight.

09/10 Thoughts: There should be no player on the Badgers hungrier for the season to start than Ben. Having to sit and watch all those games in street clothes is only fun when you are a fan, not a player. The beginning of the season should be fun, I would expect Ben to go all out and set a great explain for the team to follow. It might have been something they were missing, his leadership, as he returns as a tri-Captain. His leadership style appears to be completely different than Geoffrion’s. Michael Davies is the only other Badger on the team to score 10 or more goals in their first three seasons. As I mentioned, he is a great two-way player, and will fit in there somewhere in the pantheon of Badger PKers.

Ben is also the last remaining link to the ’06 Championship team.

Prediction: 35 games, 12-18-30*
*All predictions for regular season only

Photo from uwbadgers.com

09/10 Men's Previews: #21 Derek Stepan

Vitals:

Position: Forward
Year in School: Sophomore
Shoots Right
Height: 6-0
Weight: 180
Hometown: Hastings, MN
Major: making bags of $$$ w/ McDonagh in the Rangers organization in the near future
Previous Team: Shattuck St. Mary’s in 07/08

NHL Considerations: 2nd round pick of the NY Rangers in 2008 Draft, and was praises excessively during prospect camp this summer.

08/09 Stats: 40 games, 9-24-33, +4, 6 PIM
07/08 Stats: 60 games, 42-62-104, 16 PIM

09/10 Role: 3rd line, 1st PP, PK

08/09 Recap: Derek started off the season slow, but as the season progressed, he was like a wave building and building and building and then all of a sudden he was crashing down on the WCHA. He worked his way into all situations and did well in all situations. He was the most effective forward on the team in the last 20 games, scoring 20 points. By the end of the season he was one of the top PKers after not even participating on the PK to start the season. Derek and the Bohmber did an exceptional job, especially on the same PK against North Dakota on Senior Night, scoring two SH goals on the same PP. Derek should have been on the WCHA All Rookie team.

Biggest Strength: Derek is a talented playmaker, and he is only going to get better this season.

Biggest Weakness: I don’t think he has an obvious weakness, he is good at most things and outstanding at everything else.

09/10 Thoughts: Derek is ready for a breakout year; I think he is ready to go Joe Pavelski on the WCHA. Do I really need to say anything else? He will be key in all situations, continuing where he left off last season. He will be joining Jake Gardiner on the WJC at mid-season, and should be one of the top forwards on that team. I’m very anxious to see Derek on the ice again, he was playing so well at the end of last season, he does that for a whole season and the WCHA will quake in their skates.

Prediction: 32 games, 14-28-42* (go big or go home)
*All predictions for regular season only

Photo from uwbadgers.com

09/10 Men's Previews: #19 Jake Gardiner

Vitals:

Position: Defenseman
Year in School: Sophomore
Shoots Left
Height: 6-2
Weight: 184
Hometown: Minnetonka, MN
Major: Business
Previous Team: Minnetonka (MN HS) in 07/08

NHL Considerations: 1st round pick of Anaheim (17th overall) in the 2008 draft.

08/09 Stats: 39 games, 3-18-21, +4, 16 PIM
07/08 Stats: 25 games, 20-28-48

09/10 Role: 2nd Pairing, PP & PK

08/09 Recap: Jake burst on to the scene in the Cardinal and White and never looked back. He had a few issues on defense at times, but overall he looked more like a returning player instead of a freshman. He made an impact on offense early in the season and saw that role expand when Brendan Smith went down w/ injury and he stepped up to the top pairing w/ Jamie McBain and they barely missed a beat. I was worried he'd struggle on defense like Smith did as a freshman, but he blew me away at times at how quickly he transitioned from HS to the WCHA. For his outstanding freshman season, he was named to the WCHA All-Rookie Team.

Biggest Strength: He is the best skater on the ice regardless of position. Sometimes the wind stops to applaud he is moving so fast, yet it looks effortless. His offensive skills from all those years at forward don’t hurt either.

Biggest Weakness: Still a little rough around the edges on defense, but for a kid who played forward 3 seasons ago, he is improving by leaps and bounds.

09/10 Thoughts: Jake should be given every opportunity to step up and contribute in all situations this season as a sophomore. It will be interesting to see how he progressed over the summer, defenseman has a bigger learning curve at the NCAA level, and other blue liners on the roster were noticeably improved their sophomore years. McBain really took off, while Cody Goloubef and Ryan McDonagh really asserted themselves on the Badger blue line. If Jake follows this progression, he could be in for a stellar year. He’ll likely miss a few games at mid-season as he should be part of Team USA at the WJC’s along w/ Derek Stepan.

Prediction: 33 games, 5-25-30*
*All predictions for regular season only

Photo from uwbadgers.com

09/10 Men's Previews: #17 Ryan McDonagh

Vitals:

Position: Defenseman
Year in School: Junior
Shoots Left
Height: 6-1
Weight: 216
Hometown: Arden Hills, MN
Major: making $$$ in the NHL after the season
Previous Team: Cretin-Derham Hall (MN HS) in 06/07

NHL Considerations: 1st round pick of Montreal (12th overall) in the 2007 draft, but had his rights traded to the NY Ranger during the off season.

08/09 Stats: 36 games, 5-11-16, -2, 59 PIM
07/08 Stats: 40 games, 5-7-12, +7, 42 PIM

09/10 Role: 1st Pairing, PP & PK

08/09 Recap: Not long after the season started, Ryan found himself as an alternate captain. Eaves broke up the wildly successful pairing of McD/McB early in the season only to find Ryan as successfully paired w/ Cody Goloubef. While the McBain/Smith or McBain/Gardiner pairing was #1, the McDonagh/Goloubef pairing was the most consistent and the guys to bring out when a defensive presence was required. Ryan found himself on Team USA for the WJC, and though they didn’t medal he played well. Overall, he had another stellar season and established himself as a leader.

Biggest Strength: Ryan is great in all areas, but the thing I like about him the most is his physical presence on the ice. The other top defensemen have similar skill sets and are talented, but none of them lay down the big hit like McD.

Biggest Weakness: Is there really any weaknesses in Ryan’s game?

09/10 Thoughts: If you aren’t excited about Ryan McDonagh yet (first what the hell is your problem!) you will be by the end of the first period on Friday October 16th. His return to the Cardinal and White was never guaranteed this off season, but his return spells great things for the Badgers this season. He is clearly the leader on the blue line and should wear his tri-captain “C” w/ pride this season. What makes Ryan great doesn’t always show up in the boxscore, but you’ll know when he’s out there this season. W/ McBain gone to the pros, Ryan should see an expanded role in the offensive, which will be fun to see. I heard he showed up at the first captain’s practice ripped and ready to kick the WCHA’s ass, only 4 weeks til the domination begins.

Prediction: 35 games, 5-20-25*
*All predictions for regular season only

Photo from uwbadgers.com

09/10 Men's Previews: #16 Sean Dolan

Vitals:

Position: Forward
Year in School: Junior
Shoots Right
Height: 6-3
Weight: 196
Hometown: Chesterfield, MO (why do they list St. Louis?)
Major: Consumer Science
Previous Team: Chicago (USHL) in 06/07

NHL Considerations: See how the next two seasons go.

08/09 Stats: 35 games, 4-7-11, +2, 42 PIM
07/08 Stats: 40 games, 4-4-8, +1, 28 PIM

09/10 Role: 4th line while fighting for PT

08/09 Recap: After a nice freshman season, Sean, while he didn’t take a step back, didn’t really take a step forward either. He was a successful member of the grind line w/ Ben Grotting and John Mitchell, but that line was broken up last season. He was a regular on the 4th line and that line provided consistent energy throughout the season.

Biggest Strength: Very good defensively and a nice addition to the PK.

Biggest Weakness: I think there is more to Sean Dolan than Badger fans have seen so far. His offensive game shows flashes of progressing, but he never quite takes that next step. Could be a function of his role on the team as well.

09/10 Thoughts: I see Sean in a group w/ a few other players (Josh Turnbull, Ratty Johnson and Matt Thurber) who will be fighting hard for playing time this season. It will be very interesting to see who busts it in practice to start this season and who improved over the summer, because it could go a long way to determining who plays a lot. Sean has the advantage of size, and his consistent play in his own zone. He is a good centerman as well, though he could be fighting Aaron Bendickson and Thurber for that spot on the 4th line.

Prediction: 12 games, 3-3-6*
*All predictions for regular season only

Photo from uwbadgers.com

09/10 Men's Preview: #15 Craig Smith

Vitals:

Position: Forward
Year in School: Freshman
Shoots Right
Height: 6-0
Weight: 195
Hometown: Madison, WI
Major: unknown
Previous Team: Waterloo (USHL) last season

NHL Considerations: Drafted in the 4th round by Nashville this past summer.

08/09 Stats: 54 games, 28-48-76, +32, 108 PIM
07/08 Stats: 58 games, 13-10-23, -3, 90 PIM

09/10 Role: 3rd line (hopefully w/ Murray and Stepan) and special teams

08/09 Recap: I think its safe to say Craig had a breakout year in his final USHL campaign. He was 2nd in the league in scoring and assists, and 4th in +/-. He was a 1st team All-USHL selection, joining teammate Brett Bennett. During the middle of the season, he took part in the Junior A Challenge where he was the captain of Team USA. He led the team to gold w/ some stellar play which earned him a spot on the all-tourney team. He again led Waterloo (Badger Hockey USHL factory) to the USHL playoffs, but lost in the 1st round to Green Bay.

Biggest Strength: I was able to see Craig play once last season in GB. The one thing that really stuck out to me that night is that he plays much bigger than 6 feet tall, 195 lbs. He used his body well, and was a contributor in all scenarios on the ice.

Biggest Weakness: Based solely on his stats, he has an issue w/ PIM. He’s going to have to learn to control his temper, much like his further Nashville teammate Blake Geoffrion did.

09/10 Thoughts: I’ve learned to temper my expectations of freshman since Kyle Turris graced Madison w/ his presence for one season. Had the blog existed then and had I done these previews, I would have predicted a 45 pt regular season for young KT. I expect Craig to contribute, he is older, being 20 at the start of the season, and comes off an outstanding USHL season. How much he contributes is a different story. He played in all situations in Waterloo, and I would expect to see him on the 2nd PP unit, though getting a spot on the PK might be difficult. If he beats my expectations, great, but w/ the depth at forward this season, there is no reason for unreasonable KT like expectations to cause disappoint. Getting his feet wet in some WCHA action and being ready to step up in 10/11 will be key.

I think Badger fans will like what they see of the Madison native (if you haven’t seen him already). I’ve been hyping him here on the blog for months, and can’t wait to see him play.

Prediction: 32 games, 8-8-16*
*All predictions for regular season only

Photo from uwbadgers.com

09/10 Men's Previews: #14 Ben Grotting

Vitals:

Position: Forward
Year in School: Senior
Shoots Right
Height: 6-1
Weight: 197
Hometown: Birmingham, AL
Major: History
Previous Team: Lincoln (USHL) in 05/06

NHL Considerations: Could find a minor league contract after the season.

08/09 Stats: 35 games, 5-9-14, +1, 25 PIM
07/08 Stats: 39 games, 2-7-9, +1, 27 PIM

09/10 Role: 4th line and PK

08/09 Recap: I think Ben’s season can best be remembered for the beating he put on Patricia “Whitey” White when the gophers came to town in October. Nothing like watching your team fall to 0-5-1, but very proud to be a Badger have watching a hated rival’s player turtle on the ice while he received a much deserved beating. Overall, I’m not a fan of fighting in hockey just to fight, but when someone pulls some **** its time to drop the gloves. Overall, Ben had a very nice season, and was consistently one of the better defensive forwards on the team, while increasing his offensive production.

Biggest Strength: Ben brings a solid defensive game to the ice each night and isn’t afraid to get dirty out there to get the job done and help the team win.

Biggest Weakness: He is not going to be a big contributor to the Badger offense w/ any regularity.

09/10 Thoughts: Ben could possibly find himself as a regular on the 4th line w/ yesterday’s Badger Aaron Bendickson. It is possible that one of them could slide up in the lineup to add some defense and energy to a scoring line. Both players produce similar results on the ice, but have different styles of play. Should Ben find himself w/ Bendickson, Sean Dolan and/or Matt Thurber on the checking line, they would make a formidable trio against the scoring lines of the WCHA and make their lives hell, while chipping in a few goals when the opportunity arises.

Prediction: 30 games, 3-5-8*
*All predictions for regular season only

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09/10 Men's Previews: #13 Aaron Bendickson

Vitals:

Position: Forward
Year in School: Senior
Shoots Right
Height: 5-11
Weight: 170
Hometown: Thief River Falls, MN
Major: History
Previous Team: Des Moines (USHL) in 05/06

NHL Considerations: Could find a minor league contract after the season.

08/09 Stats: 33 games, 2-3-5, +5, 16 PIM
07/08 Stats: 37 games, 6-4-10, -2, 4 PIM

09/10 Role: 4th line and PK

08/09 Recap: Aaron was in street clothes early in the season due to injury, but was a regular in the lineup after returning. He was part of a solid 4th line group that did a good job agitating the opponents and working hard, and also saw some time on the PK. I really thought he was going to be more of an offensive part of the team, and he had a lot of good chances, but nothing went his way.

Biggest Strength: Not many Badgers leave it all on the ice every shift line Aaron does. He is full of hussle and never stops working til the shift is over, and I think this is a large part of the reason why he has been a regular the last two seasons.

Biggest Weakness: He’s shown flashes of offense, but overall that is not the strong point of his game. He more than makes up for it in his own end and on the PK.

09/10 Thoughts: Aaron should again be a regular in the lineup this season, and again should be a key part of the 4th line, w/ three solid scoring lines projected, that is let loose to cause havoc and shutdown opposing teams scoring lines. He has excelled in this role his entire career and hopefully he can find some chances to add some offense to a team that is pretty deep at forward and shouldn’t have much trouble scoring goals.

Prediction: 30 games, 4-6-10*
*All predictions for regular season only

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09/10 Men's Previews: #12 Matt Thurber

Vitals:

Position: Forward
Year in School: Sophomore
Shoots Right
Height: 5-9
Weight: 190
Hometown: Beaver Dam, WI
Major: Business
Previous Team: Omaha (USHL) in 07/08

NHL Considerations: He is just starting his hockey career.

08/09 Stats: 33 games, 2-6-8, -3, 24 PIM
07/08 Stats: 58 games, 14-41-55 +23, 71 PIM

09/10 Role: 4th line and PK (as a fan hoping for more)

08/09 Recap: After a high scoring season in the USHL, I had big hopes for Matt last season, and really he didn’t disappoint me. He was boxed into a 4th line grinder role (due to depth), while not a weakness, I think misses his game’s strength. He has some bright flashes between Thanksgiving and Christmas, especially the night against Michigan State where his line w/ Ben Grotting and John Mitchell accounted for all the offense. While his faceoff % needs to improve, Matt did something no one else was close to doing, which was almost scoring directly from the faceoff circle on a few occasions. Not a bad freshman season overall.

Biggest Strength: Playmaking, we haven’t seen a lot of it yet, but I’ve seen flashes. Hopefully as a sophomore Matt puts it together and shows off his skills. Strong on the PK as well.

Biggest Weakness: Nothing glaring sticks out at me, it appeared he adjusted slowly to the WCHA like most frosh. I won’t pass judgment until I see more of him this season.

09/10 Thoughts: W/ the immense depth at forward this season, Matt is going to have to fight for PT. As the season gets close to starting, I’m eager to hear who’s improved over the summer, who hasn’t and how that translates into an opening night lineup based on a few weeks of practice in October. I again have high hopes for Matt and would like to see him regularly in the lineup, and when he is in there Eaves using some of his playmaking ability instead of miring him as a PK/grinder/checking line role. Not that there is anything wrong w/ the PK, I tip my hat to those who perform that thankless job. There is a light at the end of the tunnel, Matt works hard through this season, he’ll be a big part of the 10/11 team’s offense.

Prediction: 30 games, 6-15-21*
*All predictions for regular season only

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09/10 Men's Previews: #11 Andy Bohmbach

Vitals:

Position: Forward
Year in School: Senior
Shoots Left
Height: 6-2
Weight: 198
Hometown: Hudson, WI
Major: Consumer Science
Previous Team: Waterloo (USHL) in 05/06

NHL Considerations: He’s the Bohmber; he creates his own destiny.

08/09 Stats: 39 games, 10-15-25, +4, 28 PIM
07/08 Stats: 17 games, 0-3-3, +1, 6 PIM

09/10 Role: 1st or 2nd line, PP & PK

08/09 Recap: Much like Tom Gorowsky, the Bohmber came out of no where last season to become a top contributor to the Badger offense and had a breakout season. This breakout really hit full swing following the much loved Andy Bohmbach week here on the blog. Andy did everything for the Badgers last season. He notched double digit goals, played big minutes in scoring situations, spending some time on the PP, and was a dominator on the PK. I don’t think I’ll ever forget the sweet passes from the Bohmber to Derek Stepan as they connected twice during the same PK against the Sioux on Senior Night. Who knew the Bohmber had some scoring and passing touch? Beyond all the things he did to fill the stat sheet, he never stopped being one of the hardest workers on the ice, which carried over from his sophomore campaign.

Biggest Strength: I’m not sure if there is anything I don’t like about the Bohmber’s game, but he is beyond solid in his own end and puts all his effort into each shift. Given the chance, he didn’t look bad on offense either.

Biggest Weakness: Weakness…not sure this word applies to Andy Bohmbach.

09/10 Thoughts: As my favorite Badger, it going to be sad to see the Bohmber graduate in the Spring. There will be time enough for melancholy feelings later, between now and then I predict the Hudson native will again vanquish his WCHA foes as he continues his strong play throughout his senior year. The tandem of Bohmbach and Stepan on the PK at the end of the season was lights out, and he should continue as a key PK guy this season. PK guys get no love, or not the love they are due. Being a lefty his place in the offense is assured, and besides that, he reminded us during Andy Bohmbach Week that he’s a goal scorer. I can’t wait to chant “Bohmber! Bohmber!” again this season. The Bohmber personifies Badger Hockey; while I'm sure he loves to score goals (who wouldn't?), he'll selflessly do all the hardwork in the corner or out in front blocking a shot just as readily.

I think it is only right to end this w/ a quote from RabidBucky over on Buckyville, “I don't even need to state that The Bohmber will dominate and lay waste to all in his path. You will find Andy Bohmbach by following the trail of broken hearted fans of opposing teams and broken spirited players who had the misfortune of opposing him.”

Prediction: 35 games, 12-18-30*
*All predictions for regular season only

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09/10 Men's Previews: #10 Patrick Johnson

Vitals:

Position: Forward
Year in School: Junior
Shoots Left
Height: 5-9
Weight: 156
Hometown: Madison, WI
Major: Not sure
Previous Team: Lincoln (USHL) in 06/07

NHL Considerations: 7th round pick of Montreal in the 2008 NHL Draft.

08/09 Stats: 35 games, 3-4-7, E, 44 PIM
07/08 Stats: 40 games, 8-13-21, +8, 36 PIM

09/10 Role: Fighting for PT

08/09 Recap: After a wildly successful freshman season and being drafted by the Canadiens in the NHL Draft, things were looking up for Ratty Johnson. Things didn’t quite go as well during his sophomore campaign. True, a lot of Ratty’s production as a freshman was the benefit of being linemates w/ Blake Geoffrion and Kyle Turris for a large part of the season, and there would be a drop off as his role moved off the 1st line. He was a regular on the PK to start the season, but wasn’t seeing regular shifts there by the end of the season. Ratty admitted that he was trying to be a different player than he was during his freshman year. He looked to be a scorer instead of the high energy player who became a fan favorite on the ice for reasons beyond his last name.

Biggest Strength: As I just mentioned, Ratty’s biggest strength is his high energy game filled w/ reckless abandoned. As a freshman, he took on everyone. NoDak pseudo thug Joe Finley cried in the shower after being owned by Patrick Johnson. I’m no NHL scout, but I think Montreal drafted him for this reason. He is rarely out hussled on the ice, he scores hardworking goals. He was very successful as a freshman doing all of the above. His defensive game isn’t too shabby either.

Biggest Weakness: Unlike his father, he is not big time playmaker, but doesn’t need to be either.
09/10 Thoughts: A familiar theme w/ some of the forwards that have been previewed so far, not sure what to expect this season. I was kinda disappointed last season w/ Ratty’s play. Unlike a few teammates, he always gives his best effort, but I thought as a freshman he was an essential part of the team, he brought something that no one else did. Last season, I didn’t see that. I’m really hoping Ratty returns to his freshman form; there is great depth at forward (common theme) so playing time will be precious. Based on last season’s performance, I think Ratty will fight for PT along w/ a host of other guys. He needs to do something to lock in a spot and I hope he does. When he’s playing his game, he is a fun player to watch.

Prediction: 10 games, 1-2-3*
*All predictions for regular season only

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