These two Northwest Suburban clubs are trying to scratch and claw their way to the top of the conference standings.

The Huskies (4-1) are coming off a 9-1 thrashing of Holy Family. The Huskies are led at forward by juniors Gavyn Thoreson (5 goals, 8 assists, 13 points) and Elk River-transfer Cayden Casey (4-8-12), as well as senior Hudson Zinda (4-3-7). Andover's power play is operating at 19%, but perhaps a bit puzzling is its 61.5% penalty kill, which is not what you would expect for a team known for playing well in their end of the ice.

Senior defensemen Kyle Law (3-3-6) and Weston Knox (0-5-5) mentioned in this article in the Hockey News have had their ups and downs this season. Head Coach Mark Manney has gone with senior goaltender Austin Brauns (.890 save percentage) most of the starts so far.  

The Crimson (4-1-1) is currently sitting atop the Northwest Suburban standings and is coming off a hard-fought 3-2 win over Centennial. Maple Grove is led by forwards in juniors Jack Kernan (5-7-12), Landen Gunderson (5-6-11), and Finn Brink (5-3-8), as well as senior Nathan Jaglo (3-4-7). On defense, junior Luke Margenau (1-3-4) is a capable puck mover, and Parker Wente (1-1-2) rounds out a solid two-way tandem.

Head Coach Tom Starkey has played senior goaltender Toby Hopp (2.32 goals-against-average) most of the season. I think he will get the start against the Huskies.