Will Zellers, a standout player from the United States Hockey League, has made a significant impact on the University of North Dakota (UND) hockey team. Known for scoring 44 goals last season, Zellers has transitioned into college hockey with remarkable skill, despite initially questioning his adaptability to the competitive National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC).
Zellers’ Overtime Goal Secures Series Sweep for UND
On Saturday night, Zellers scored a power-play goal just 10 seconds into overtime, leading UND to a 2-1 victory over Bemidji State at Ralph Engelstad Arena. This goal not only marked a thrilling end to the game but also completed a two-game sweep for UND, improving their season record to 10-4 under head coach Dane Jackson.
Key Performance Metrics
- Zellers’ January Stats: He scored seven goals in November, leading all rookies across the nation.
- Season Overview: Zellers now has nine goals for the season, positioning him among the top freshman scorers nationally.
- Goaltending Highlights: Freshman goaltender Jan Špunar achieved a 6-0 record, marking the best start for a UND goalie since Jordan Parise in 2003-04.
This game featured a tense atmosphere, particularly as UND faced Bemidji State for the second consecutive night. The match’s intensity reflects the challenges of completing a sweep in college hockey, an achievement acknowledged by Zellers post-game.
Game Summary
The scoring opened with UND’s Ben Strinden netting a goal, followed by a response from Bemidji State’s Kasper Magnussen. The tie led to overtime, where Zellers’ decisive goal stole the spotlight. Zellers credited his success to an opportunistic bounce that allowed him to capitalize quickly.
Coaching Insights
Coach Dane Jackson expressed confidence in Zellers, highlighting his ability to attack defenders and assess risky plays effectively. The coaching staff’s support appears to foster Zellers’ growth and confidence on the ice.
Further Developments
UND’s ability to secure this sweep was vital, especially considering the team’s injury struggles. Key players such as Josh Zakreski, Ellis Rickwood, and Bennett Zmolek missed the game due to various injuries, yet the team showcased resilience.
As the season continues, UND prepares for its next challenge with a non-conference series against Mercyhurst scheduled for January 2-3, aiming to maintain momentum in the NCHC.
