UPDATE: The fifth-ranked Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs secured a crucial 3-1 victory over the Arizona State Sun Devils in NCHC action at Amsoil Arena on December 15, 2023. This win marks the Bulldogs’ impressive 10-0 record in Friday night series openers this season.
In a dramatic finish, the Bulldogs had to fend off a major penalty in the final six minutes, showcasing their resilience. Max Plante, who leads the nation with 29 points, alongside Kyle Gaffney and freshman Daniel Shlaine, provided the scoring power for Minnesota Duluth (14-5 overall, 7-3 NCHC).
Bulldogs’ sophomore goaltender Adam Gajan made a remarkable 16 saves, effectively limiting the Sun Devils to just 17 shots on goal. Despite a major power play opportunity, ASU (7-9-1, 3-5-1) struggled, recording only five shots in the third period.
The game also marked a significant milestone for Bulldogs head coach Scott Sandelin, as he celebrated his 1,000th game behind the bench—becoming the first coach in UMD history to reach this milestone and joining the ranks of just 27 coaches in NCAA Division I men’s ice hockey history to achieve it.
Tensions rose in the final minutes when ASU junior captain Kyle Smolen was carried off the ice after a heavy hit from Bulldogs defenseman Adam Kleber, resulting in a major interference penalty. The Sun Devils capitalized on the power play but failed to convert. Shlaine sealed the Bulldogs’ victory with an empty-net goal just as Kleber returned to the ice.
Gaffney scored his first goal as a Bulldog, contributing to the team’s success after Sandelin shuffled the lines. The new combination paid off when freshman Hunter Anderson assisted Gaffney for the game-winning goal late in the second period, giving the Bulldogs a crucial 2-1 lead.
The Bulldogs demonstrated their offensive prowess, scoring their fourth power play goal in the last five attempts. Plante’s quick shot from the slot, set up by Jayson Shaugabay, illustrated their effective strategy.
Arizona State initially took the lead with a goal from Ty Nash late in the first period, but the Bulldogs quickly regrouped to dominate the remaining game time.
Looking ahead, the Bulldogs will face Arizona State again on Saturday at 5 p.m. at Amsoil Arena, seeking to extend their winning streak before a two-week holiday break. UMD will return to action on January 2, hosting Manitoba in an exhibition.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Bulldogs continue their pursuit of excellence on the ice!
