Men’s Ice Hockey: Player Ratings vs. Union

By: Dan Shulman

TOP – Doyle Somerby

GRADE: A-

STATS: +2, two assists

Somerby was seemingly the only positive for the blue liners on the night. He assisted on two goals, created numerous more scoring chances, got pucks to the net, and was solid defensively. He and fellow third line defender Shane Switzer held the Union offense in check, something the rest of the defense struggled with. Somerby also created a physical presence. Despite drawing a penalty, he was one of the only positives on an otherwise negative night.

BOTTOM – Brandon Hickey

GRADE: D

STATS: -3 on the night, no points, two shots

One of the most anticipated sophomores on the roster, Hickey was an opening night letdown. One of last year’s team leaders in shots, the Alberta-native mustered just two attempts on target for the night. He was held to zero points, a rarity for Hickey last season. And worst of all, his defensive line was on the ice for three Union goals, namely the game tying and go-ahead scores. It might be some rustiness, but the sophomore needs to shake it immediately.

SURPRISE – Bobo Carpenter

GRADE: B

STATS: +1, no penalties, first assist

Carpenter shined in his first collegiate game. Normally a goal scorer, the local product is adapting to his roll on the wing, and immediately made an impact by creating scoring chances. He assisted on the Matt Lane goal, stayed disciplined, moved the puck well, and had a plus rating. His impact on the ice was felt as Union were pressed every time Carpenter had the puck. The freshman is only going to get better, and it should be fun to watch him mature into a solid player.