PLUS/MINUS: Four Takeaways from BU vs. Merrimack on Friday

By: Dan Shulman

• Slow Starts Trend Continues

Something that has haunted the Terriers in every game so far has been slow starts. Friday in North Andover was no different, falling behind just 48 seconds after the puck dropped. Another defensive zone breakdown by the Terriers led to yet another goal for a Terrier opponent. Last season, the Terriers were no stranger to allowing the first goal, falling behind in 20 of 41 games last year. Going 11-7-2 when being scored on first in 2014-15, this BU team knows how to play from behind. However, it was only a matter of time before it began to haunt the Terriers. BU must play better at the beginning of the games or falling behind will become a death sentence.

• Defensemen Finally Shooting

Aside from Brandon Fortunato, Terrier defensemen had been reluctant to shoot the puck until Friday. John MacLeod and Brandon Hickey unleashed rockets, both of which ended up behind Merrimack goalie Collin Delia. With a point presence on offense, BU looks even more dangerous. Last season, Hickey was never one to pass up on a shot. If he can get more shooting opportunities this season, Brandon Hickey and his lethal one-timer will lead to more Terrier goals. The same goes for all BU defensemen, each of whom has a hard, fast shot that will give opposing goaltenders fits.

• 4-on-4 Weakness Exploited

The Terriers have done well out-hustling opponents this season. For the first time this season, BU had an extended 4-on-4 opportunity. With more space out on the ice, the Terriers were stunned by the fast-paced Merrimack puck movement, as they saw a tie game turn into a two-goal deficit. BU is a very speedy team, but they looked lethargic against the Warriors’ four-man offensive unit. Although this situation comes up rarely, it happens often enough that if BU continues to play poorly in this situation, it could spell trouble. Of course, the easy way to fix this is to not get penalties, of which the Terriers had seven on Friday.

• Goaltending Doubts

Going into the Friday’s game, the Terriers certainly had doubts about who the full time starting goaltender would be for. After Connor LaCouvee allowed five goals on Tuesday, all eyes were on Sean Maguire. Following two quick goals in the second period, Connor LaCouvee got a shot at redemption and slammed the door. However, the Terriers need to find which goalie will play well night in and night out. Whether that involves giving third-string Max Prawdzik a look, or continuing to alternate until a clear starter emerges, BU has to figure out their goaltending situation and do so quickly.