Everyone seems to be talking about Penn State adding hockey -- no official word yet -- and the formation of a Big Ten Conference -- that's a bigger leap. But we will try to keep following the story as it develops at University Park, Pa.
Meanwhile, Gophers will be on ice for first time this season with their coaches this afternoon. NCAA allows two hours of ice time this week and next two before official practices start Sat., Oct. 2.
What Hockey's Future has to say about ex-Gopher Jordan Schroeder, whom it rates the No. 2 prospect in Vancouver system:
2. (4) Jordan Schroeder, C, 19
Drafted 1st round, 22nd overall, 2009
A dominant player at every level he's taken on, the ultra-competitive Schroeder needs only a chance to shine at the NHL level before he becomes an impact player there as well. Signing an entry-level deal after the trade deadline last spring, Schroeder put up a point per game pace in the AHL playoffs and looks primed to challenge for a spot on the Canucks this year.
A smallish size center at 5'9, he is supremely well conditioned physically and compensates for his lack of height by reading the game and anticipating the play. The USA's all-time leading scorer at the World Junior Championships, Schroeder slipped to the 22nd spot at the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, an opportunity the Canucks seized with both hands and a decision the fans are prepared to applaud for many years to come.
