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Hockey East rivals Boston University and Providence will face off for the NCAA Title tonight in an all-New England matchup.
The Terriers are looking for their sixth title, while the Friars just want their first.
Here’s what you need to know:
The Basics
Who:
Providence vs. Boston University
When:
April 11, 7:30 p.m. Eastern
Channel:
ESPN
Where:
TD Garden, Boston, Massachusettes
Last Meeting:
Providence 2, Boston University 1 on November 1, 2014 in Boston
Scouting Providence
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The Friars finished their season 25-13-12 and were the first to clinch their spot in the title game after a 4-1 won over Nebraska-Omaha. It’s their first Frozen Four appearance in 30 years. They’ve never won the title.
They’ve often been led by center/left wing Nick Saracino, who scored an empty netter in their last game and had 38 points on the season. The 23-year-old is expected to enter the NHL draft and be a high pick.
Another huge piece of Providence’s success is goalie Jon Gillies, a draft pick of the Calgary Flames. This season, he has a 1.98 goals against average and .930 save percentage in 38 starts.
Providence outscored their opponents 119-81 this season.
Scouting Boston University
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The Terriers went 28-7-5 on the season, and secured their 22nd trip to the Frozen Four after defeating the University of North Dakota, 5-3. Their looking for their sixth title and first since 2009.
Jack Eichel has arguably been the best player for BU this season. He had two goals and an assist against UND, and finished the season with 70 points.
Matt O’Connor has led the team between the pipes, posting a 2.10 goals against average and .928 save percentage this season.
Boston University has outscored their opponents 155-91 this season.
Heavy’s Pick
Boston University 3, Providence 2
Boston University will be up against a strong goalie, but Gillies will be facing a strong offense. It’s likely that he will be the make-or-break player of the game.
O’Connor and his higher GAA and lower save percentage will have to rely on his offense more than Gillies, which O’Connor can afford to do.
In the end, BU has more experience in these types of games, and will likely come out on top, but in a nail biter.
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Providence vs. Boston University: Time, Channel & Prediction