10 for '10: The Hobey
The following article appeared April 28 on the InsideCollegeHockey (INCH) Web site.
We're only a few weeks removed from the 2009 national
championship game, but here at Inside College Hockey we can't
resist casting our gaze toward the future. A lot can change between
now and the drop of the puck in October, but that doesn't stop our
10 For '10 feature.
In the upcoming days, we will take a look at the top 10 teams
headed into next season; in addition to our thoughts on 10 big
questions headed into the upcoming campaign. For now, we begin the
10 For '10 feature by taking an early look at who will be next
year's contenders for the Hobey Baker Award.
Zane Kalemba, Princeton
Princeton has just completed the best two-year run in program
history and looks to be taking on the appearance of team that
expects to be in the national tournament every year rather than
hoping to be in the NCAAs. For all of that optimism, however,
pessimists can point to what Princeton hasn't been able to do
– no ECAC Hockey championships in 2009 and two one-and-dones
in the NCAAs. A big senior year from Kalemba, a returning Hobey
finalist, could mean big things for Princeton and individual
recognition is bound to follow.
David McIntyre, Colgate
The biggest challenge that McIntyre faces is getting his name out
there enough to earn strong consideration from coaches and voters
for this award. Colgate doesn't play on television much and hasn't
been in the mix for conference titles or an NCAA playoff spot in
the last two years. That being said, McIntyre got a lot of the
"get-to-know-you" stuff out of the way last season as his 21-goal,
43-point campaign made him one of the top-10 Hobey finalists. Eyes
will be on him from the start of the year this time around.
Riley Nash, Cornell
Cornell's leading scorer asserted himself in the second half of
the season and finished the year with a team-high 35 points as the
Big Red qualified for the NCAA Tournament for the first time in
three years. Nash had 16 points in Cornell's last 15 games, which
spanned the start of February through the NCAA quarterfinals. His
impact on games has increased with every passing semester through
two years. Consistent dominance in his junior year (if there is
one) would make him a strong candidate for individual honors.
Complete article can be accessed via the INCH Web site by clicking here.
