Get ready for an ice-cold showdown that could decide more than just tonight's winner! No. 20 Miami takes on No. 3 UND in a high-stakes hockey clash, and the tension is palpable as these two powerhouses wrap up their two-game series at the iconic Ralph Engelstad Arena. UND already claimed the first victory with a nail-biting 1-0 win, but Miami isn't going down without a fight. And this is the part most people miss: With UND just three wins away from clinching the Penrose Cup, every puck drop counts. But here's where it gets controversial—UND has dominated Miami in their last 11 meetings. Can the RedHawks break the streak, or will UND's streak continue? Let’s dive into the details.
Game Details
When: 6:07 p.m. tonight
Where: Ralph Engelstad Arena, Grand Forks
How to Watch: Catch the action on Midco Sports (GF Ch. 27/622 HD), tune in to The Fox (96.1 FM) for radio coverage, or stream live at NCHChockey.com/tv.
In-Game Updates
The first period ended scoreless, setting the stage for a tight battle. Here’s a breakdown of the lineups:
UND’s Lineup
Forwards:
- Mac Swanson, Ellis Rickwood, Will Zellers
- Dylan James, Cole Reschny, Ben Strinden
- Cody Croal, Ollie Josephson, Jack Kernan
- Anthony Menghini, Cade Littler, Tyler Young
Defensemen:
- Jake Livanavage, Keaton Verhoeff
- Abram Wiebe, E.J. Emery
- Sam Laurila, Andrew Strathmann
- Jayden Jubenvill (replacing Bennett Zmolek due to body maintenance)
Goaltenders: Jan Špunar, Gibson Homer, Zach Sandy
Not in Lineup: Josh Zakreski (taking warmups), David Klee (injured), Dalton Andrew, Bennett Zmolek (body maintenance), Ian Engel
Miami’s Lineup
Forwards:
- Kocha Delic, Ilia Morozov, David Deputy
- Ryan Smith, Maximilion Helgeson, Doug Grimes
- Bradley Walker, Ethan Hay, Blake Mesenburg
- Casper Nassen, Justin Stupka, Brayden Morrison
- Nicholas Mikan (replacing Matteo Giampa, who’s out with an injury)
Defensemen:
- Kyle Aucoin, Michael Phelan
- Shaun McEwen, Michael Quinn
- Ryder Thompson, Nick Donato
Goaltenders: Matteo Drobac, Mathis Langevin, Benji Motew
Not in Lineup: Matteo Giampa (injured), Vladislav Lukashevich (injured), Owen Lalonde (injured), David Grosek, John Emmons
Officials:
Referees: Jake Jackson and Nolan Bloyer
Linesmen: Kyle Stephens and Eric Steele
Supervisor: Thor Nelson
Pregame Notes
UND’s only change is Jayden Jubenvill stepping in for Bennett Zmolek, who’s out for another night of body maintenance. Miami’s forward Matteo Giampa is sidelined after an injury in the first period of the last game, with Nicholas Mikan taking his place. The RedHawks have also shuffled their top line, pairing Ilia Morozov with Kocha Delic and David Deputy. But here's where it gets controversial: UND’s goalie Jan Špunar has been on fire, stopping 37 of 38 shots in his last two games. Can Miami’s Matteo Drobac rise to the challenge? And will UND’s 11-game winning streak against Miami continue, or will the RedHawks turn the tide?
Thought-Provoking Question: With UND on the cusp of clinching the Penrose Cup, do you think Miami has what it takes to spoil their plans tonight? Let us know in the comments—we want to hear your take!
About the Author: Brad Schlossman has been the go-to voice for college hockey in Grand Forks since 2005. Recognized by the Associated Press Sports Editors as the top beat writer for the Herald's circulation division four times and North Dakota sportswriter of the year twice, he brings unmatched insight to every game. Reach him at bschlossman@gfherald.com and stay tuned for more thrilling hockey coverage!
