But a high-octane offense will only win you games against poor clubs, but a solid defense is just as valuable against the country's top teams during the regular season as it is in postseason play. Michigan's win over the Lake State last Saturday was also a one-goal affair. Three weekends ago, the Lakers won 5-4 in overtime against Michigan in Sault Ste. The other two matchups between the CCHA's top two squads were blowouts. The winning margins were four goals or more.
Defense is an integral factor in tournament success, but it's also an integral part of a good team.
We had a big win over Lake State, but we have to play our best hockey from here on out. That's really the key if you need to single something out. Mistake-free hockey wins championships. By the time Michigan takes the ice at 2 p.m. Sunday in East Lansing, only six teams will still have ice to skate on. And you can bet all will be excellent teams led by experienced coaches and talented players.