Here we are at the final weekend of the regular season and nothing is settled in the standings. That is par for the course in the ECAC West.
Everything is on the line Friday, as every team but Neumann is in action. If Elmira can tie or beat Utica, the Soaring Eagles clinch the regular season title. All of the other teams are battling for playoff position.
It could come down to Sunday afternoon before the dust settles and the playoff picture becomes clear.
Last Week: 2-1
Overall: 49-23 (.681)
{predicted winners bolded}
Manhattanville at Hobart: This is the only weekend series being played, and it is a doozy. Manhattanville and Utica haven’t played each other since November 4. Both teams have grown a lot since then. Hobart is rallying behind goaltender Nick Broadwater, and Manhattanville is riding its own netminder Pierre-Olivier Lemieux. Manhattanville takes Friday’s game and Hobart rallies on Saturday.
Friday, February 17
Utica at Elmira – This game has the most on the line as Elmira tries to clinch the regular season title and Utica wants to secure a first round bye. Neither team has been particularly consistent of late, but Elmira’s offense has been more prolific.
Sunday, February 19
Elmira at Neumann – The regular season standings might be resolved before this game, but maybe not. Assuming so, Neumann will have a bit more to play for and will be more rested than Elmira.
