Hak Pre-Game Comments:
We've played well. We've got a consistent hockey team effort wise. Played through the Final 5 and West Regional for great preparation for this type of atmosphere.
All year experience helps you. BC plays with great team speed and has a great transition game. I expect to see a similar opponent as our last two games. We don't want to chase BC around. Most importantly, we need to play our game, which is strong defense, but on the flip side, puck possession game. Let's grind and create opportunities off our cycle.
I don't believe anyone is unbeatable, regardless of the situation. We won't put all our eggs in one basket regarding the first goal. Saw Maine get off to a quick early lead, and sometimes, that creates a team that relaxes. It's a 60 minute game. 3 teams remaining in this tournament. You have to play very well and consistent throughout the 60 minutes.
I don't know if we want to play over physical. They're not the biggest team, but they're an aggressive team. I think we can skate with any team in the country. I think we need to use our size and strength down low to distinguish ourselves.
Our specialty teams have been good and need to remain good. No time for relapse. The way we play, we'll take 3 or 4 penalties a night. If we can limit that, our PK unit has done good at eliminating the PP.
This time of year, you have to be ready to play right from the drop of the puck and play a full 60 minutes. Our teams hungry. We've been hungry for the past 9 days, and we need to go out and lay it on the line for 60 minutes.
Phil battled the last two games. He didn't get off to a good start vs Michigan, but he battled back, and that's what we want to see tonight.