Two-time defending NCAA hockey champion Denver was chosen third in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association coaches’ preseason poll released Tuesday, tied with Colorado College. The Pioneers were ranked No. 1 and No. 2 nationally in preseason media polls.
DU coach George Gwozdecky wasn’t surprised national media members think more of his team than his WCHA peers.
“At this time of year you base your predictions on previous strengths and what you have returning, and I don’t know how many teams outside our league know what we’re returning,” Gwozdecky said. “But I guess it tells you how we’re perceived across the country, so we’ve got that going for us.”
WCHA favorite Minnesota obtained seven of 10 first-place votes and 78 points. Wisconsin, picked second with 66 points, had one first-place vote, along with Denver and CC, each with 65 points. North Dakota (51 points) is fifth, followed by Minnesota-Duluth (37), Minnesota State (35), Michigan Tech (20), St. Cloud State (19) and Alaska-Anchorage (14).
“Minnesota is going to be stronger, coming off a Frozen Four year,” CC coach Scott Owens said. “I think they’re hungry from last year and rejuvenated. I like Denver, too, (with) key guys back, and they know how to win. And Wisconsin is going to be a little better. The five top teams in the country could be from the WCHA.”
CC senior center Marty Sertich, the reigning Hobey Baker Award winner as the country’s top player, collected seven of 10 votes for preseason player of the year. CC senior wing Brett Sterling, DU senior center Gabe Gauthier and Minnesota junior center Danny Irmen each received a vote.
Minnesota freshman forward Phil Kessel, who likely will be the No. 1 selection in the 2006 NHL draft, received all 10 votes for preseason rookie of the year.
Mike Chambers can be reached at 303-820-5453 or mchambers@denverpost.com.
