Do you know what the university or hockey team will do to honor Rico Blasi when he returns this upcoming weekend?
There will be something pre-game both nights. What that is remains to be seen, but the fans will have an opportunity to finally recognize and applaud him for what he did at Miami.
398-311-76 in his 20 years at the helm of the RedHawks, spanning from 1999, when he took over at 27 years old, is no joke. He and his staff built this program into what it became today, “the Brotherhood,” which lives on under Noreen.
Over those 20 seasons, Blasi’s RedHawks appeared in the NCAA Tournament 10 times, went to two Frozen Fours, won an NCHC Frozen Faceoff in 2015, and earned five CCHA Coach of the Year awards. That is an elite resume, and the fanbase knows that, so he will surely be welcomed back with open arms.
What is the energy like around town heading into Rico’s return?
In terms of Rico Blasi, everyone (including me) is excited to welcome him home and applaud what he means to the program. The two pregame ceremonies, whatever they entail, will certainly give fans the opportunity to cheer and applaud him in person. Lots of people have been reminiscing about the prime era of Miami hockey and the many Frozen Four runs. Many are also excited to get back there under Noreen, and everyone loves the 2024 Noreen hire.
Do you think Yegor Yegorov will get more minutes? Think we’ll see him start a game this weekend?
I would lean toward Drobac most of the time as of right now. Drobac even got in last Saturday night, and I’m happy he did since the team was struggling. Depending on how Friday’s game against St. Thomas goes, we’ll see if Yegorov gets in this weekend. I expect Drobac to start the majority of the time in NCHC play, though.
Who are the three most indispensable players on the team?
It’s hard to choose because there are more than three who are must-haves, so I’ll give you four:
David Deputy (F)
Ilia Morozov (C)
Vladislav Lukashevich (D)
Matteo Drobac (G)
Which side has been better, offensively or defensively? Has it been well balanced?
As of now, I’d say the RedHawks have played better defensively in some games but have been well-balanced in most games.
I have just the offensive graphic for you, courtesy of Ryan Sikes.
When looking at this, Miami had produced tons of chances but lacks a little bit of finishing five-on-five, aka, putting pucks in the net. The RedHawks are averaging 32.2 shots on goal per game and 3.7 goals per game.
The Redhawks are allowing 1.67 goals per game and just 21 shots on goal per game. They have been one of the best defensive team this season, blocking shots and clearing opponents out of the net-front.
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