The Michigan Wolverines hockey team boasts of a high-powered offense that is averaging five goals per game, stacked with elite talent and depth with a defensive system that’s function is to play stingy, and this Michigan team is looking to make the Frozen Four. The Wolverines have used their speed, strength, and skillful play making to make a statement.
The Wolverines offense is the best in the country. Getting offensive production from all over the lineup is making it difficult for opposing teams to defend them. Head coach Brandon Naurato has prioritized skill development and having players attack the puck and not sit back. This philosophy and system are producing NHL-ready talent.
Michigan’s defense is on pace for allowing the fewest points in the university’s history. There has been a focus shift from trying to out score teams to shutting them down. That switch has proved to be a solid one. This has not been the case as Michigan gave up a lot of goals just a season ago, so the new approach has been welcomed with open arms.
Naurato has instilled a mindset into his team of winning puck battles and puck possession while imploring his defenders to track the puck better, all of which has propelled the hockey team to a new level of play. High-end talent has also factored in, and Michigan is set to send many players to the NHL this summer, many of whom will be first-round draft picks.
So what does all of this mean? It means that Michigan looks to be headed back to the Frozen Four with a chance to win the school’s 10th National Championship and the first one since 1998. It would be the 29th Frozen Four appearance should the Hockey team finish the season strong.
