PHILADELPHIA — Some of our staff writers give their thoughts and a pick on Saturday’s Frozen Four championship game between Minnesota and Union (7:30 p.m. EDT, ESPN):
Drew Claussen, Big Ten Columnist: I think Adam Wilcox is going to be the difference in the game for Minnesota as he was in the semifinal game. However, with the way my bracket has played out this year, Union fans should be elated that I’m picking Minnesota and sparing the Dutchmen of my curse. Minnesota 3-1
Jim Connelly, Hockey East Columnist: Although the popular pick may be Minnesota, I think that Union is the better, deeper team. Union 3-2
David H. Hendrickson, Hockey East Columnist: I was too impressed by Union’s play against Boston College to pick against the Dutchmen now. Not to mention that the Dutchmen had to beat three Hockey East teams to get here. Union 3-2
Chris Lerch, Atlantic Hockey Columnist: While Minnesota is coming off arguably the most dramatic non-overtime win in Frozen Four history, I think Union will be able to contain the Gophers and win a close game. Union 3-2
Nate Owen, ECAC Hockey Columnist: The Dutchmen should be patient and solid enough defensively to get by Minnesota. Union 4-3
Matthew Semisch, NCHC Columnist: Minnesota’s last-second win over North Dakota was one for the ages, but North Dakota would’ve won that game if not for Adam Wilcox, and I think Union might be able to do what UND didn’t. Union 3-1
Paula C. Weston, Big Ten Columnist: The Dutchmen look like they are playing complete, nearly flawless hockey. The Golden Gophers just squeaked by North Dakota. Union 3-2
