The Star
Maple Grove's Bump Rules 

Like the legendary Jordan Rules, Maple Grove employed a specific attack to slow down Prior Lake's version of John Mayasich. Bump was given almost zero room to breathe whenever he was in the offensive zone, especially with the puck. Instead of waiting for Bump to make his decisions, the Crimson skaters eliminated his room to work and never passed on an opportunity to knock Bump around. While he did manage a goal in the loss, Maple Grove avoided the trap of letting one opposing player dictate the game.

The Stalwart 
Blake Steenerson, Maple Grove 

Steenerson notched a pretty goal yesterday, but it was his physical play that made him stand out on Friday night. Labeled a forward, Steenerson is more brawn than beauty, spending the game dumping more bodies than the Sopranos. Steenerson, along with Chayton Fischer and Sawyer Skanson, among others, played a vital role in the Crimson's ability to slow down the Lakers' top line. 

The Savior 
Alex Bump, Prior Lake 

Bump's Lakers took the loss on Friday night, but he reminded the state that it's okay to be in awe of a single player. When Bump touched the puck against Maple Grove, the crowd noise was enough to raise goosebumps, a rare thing to say about a high school athlete. Bump's five-goal performance in the quarterfinals will from now on be woven into the fabric of the tournament's history. 

The Quote

"It brings a whole 'nother aspect to the team. We're all buddies. When everyone's into it, and not just relying on one play, it's a lot of fun to watch and be a part of.

- Maple Grove's Chayton Fischer on this year's team chemistry

The Star 
Gavyn Thoreson, Andover 

Thoreson earns his second Star nod in as many days, scoring two goals in the Huskies’ 4-2 win over Hill-Murray. Thoreson drew high praise from Andover Head Coach Mark Manney after the game, who dubbed him the most skilled player he’d ever had in the program. Thoreson’s ability to slow the game down, survey his options with the puck, and make the best decision is among the best in the state, and will be heavily relied upon when the Huskies face Maple Grove. 

The Stalwart 
Weston Knox, Andover 

A senior captain and one of NHL Central Scouting’s top 220 North American skaters, Knox logs serious minutes of the Huskies in all situations. His quick feet (his all-important first three steps are like a bottle-rocket launching), smart reads, and steadfast positioning helped keep the Hill-Murray offense at bay. Manney lauded Knox’s positive leadership in the locker room, saying Knox is “like FEMA after Hurricane Manney comes through.” 

The Savior
Cooper Conway, Andover 

Conway picked a fabulous time to return from injury when he came back to the Andover lineup near the end of the season. Conway missed nearly a month of the 2021-2022 campaign, but has made his presence more than felt with 13 points during the postseason, including two assists on Friday night. Conway may want another crack couple of scoring chances against the Pioneers, but his presence adds another talented dimension to a Husky squad that’s peaking at the best time.  

The Quote 

“He’s always in people’s heads. I can promise you that. He’s constantly (talking) with people. I’ve seen some of the most calm guys, most poised guys, just freak out because of the kid. It’s awesome to see.”

- Andover's Weston Knox on Gavyn Thoreson