Mercyhurst Lakers vs. Air Force Falcons: Key Matchup Insights for Atlantic Hockey Series

Mercyhurst Lakers vs. Air Force Falcons: Key Matchup Insights for Atlantic Hockey Series

November 15, 2024 Catherine Williams - Chief Editor Sports

Mercyhurst Lakers Men’s Hockey Preview: Air Force Series

The Mercyhurst Lakers Men’s Hockey team will face the Air Force Falcons this weekend in a two-game series. The Lakers aim to improve their performance after a rough patch. Air Force comes into the series with strong offensive play and good goaltending.

Historical Matchup

Air Force has a 28-20-5 lead in the all-time series against Mercyhurst. In recent encounters, Air Force has won three of the last four games. Last season, the teams split their two-game series in Erie. The Lakers have struggled at Cadet Ice Arena, having not won there since 2018 and holding a 10-13-2 overall record at that venue.

Mercyhurst Team Overview

The Lakers have a current record of 2-10-0 and 2-6 in Atlantic Hockey. Mickey Burns is the leading scorer for the Lakers with 10 points, including 5 goals and 5 assists. Dustin Geregach contributes with 4 goals and 6 assists. Goaltender Simon Bucheler has a .900 save percentage and has made 288 saves in nine games. The Lakers’ power play is converting at 20.5%, which they will look to improve against Air Force.

Air Force Team Overview

Air Force holds a 6-6-0 record and a 3-1 mark in conference play. Clayton Cosentino leads the Falcons with 10 points, scoring 4 goals and providing 6 assists. Brendan Gibbons adds offensive firepower with 5 goals. In goal, Guy Blessing has a .889 save percentage and a 3.19 goals-against average. The Air Force penalty kill is effective, allowing a conversion rate of only 17.8% for opponents.

Key Players to Watch

Mickey Burns from Mercyhurst and Clayton Cosentino from Air Force will be critical for their teams. Their performance can significantly impact the game’s outcome.

Goaltending Battle

Both goalies, Simon Bucheler and Guy Blessing, are expected to face many shots during the series. Their ability to stop pucks will be vital for their teams’ success.

Upcoming Schedule

After facing Air Force, Mercyhurst will host Canisius in another Atlantic Hockey matchup. The Lakers previously lost to Canisius 6-3 earlier this season in Buffalo.