Big Ten opening series: Gophers vs. Michigan at 3M Arena at Mariucci

TV: FSN Plus each game

Radio: 97.7-FM Friday, 1130-AM/ 103.5-FM Saturday and Sunday

Preview: The No. 3-seeded Gophers (16-15-4, 11-10-3 Big Ten) take on No. 6 seed Michigan (13-14-7, 9-10-5-2) in the conference quarterfinals. Michigan coach Mel Pearson said the Gophers have one of the best lines in college hockey in Rem Pitlick, Big Ten second star of the week Brent Gates Jr., and Tyler Sheehy, as well as the conference's most talented group of forwards.

Similarities: Pearson said he noticed a lot of similarities between this year's Gophers and his Michigan team last season. Both had early season struggles under first-year coaches. But Michigan ended up in the Frozen Four. The Gophers, who Pearson said have "hit their stride," will look to make the same kind of run.

Goalie watch: Gophers coach Bob Motzko said junior Mat Robson will be in net Friday but wouldn't say beyond that whether backup Eric Schierhorn would make an appearance. While the Gophers have had the benefit of two good goalies, Michigan has the opposite issue. Pearson said between Strauss Mann and Hayden Lavigne — who both have below-.900 save percentages — he's not sure who will start.

MEGAN RYAN