With the 2020-21 season still months out, it’s time to take a look at teams from all over the State of Hockey and examine what happened this past season and what’s ahead. The next team we’re breaking down is Hopkins.
How last season went
Playing in the Lake Conference has made things very challenging for the Royals in recent years. The 2019-20 season was no different. Things started poorly early for Hopkins with six of seven losses to open the season.
Eventually, the Royals grasped some confidence as they picked up wins against St. Louis Park, Bloomington Kennedy and Shakopee. Those three wins propelled Hopkins to a 7-15-3 regular season record.
Playing in an incredibly difficult Section 6AA, Hopkins got the unenviable task of playing top-seeded Blake in the quarterfinals. The Bears took care of their business and sent the Royals home after just one section game.
Who’s back and who’s gone
Jake Reiner played a key role for Hopkins last season and graduates after a 32-point senior season (20 goals, 12 assists). Meanwhile, many of those players who skated besides Reiner are set to return to the Royals’ roster next season.
Among the returners are Dominic Valentini, Matt Stuessi and Louis DeGiulio. They combined for 22 goals and 40 assists last season.
The biggest returner for Hopkins may come in the form of goaltender Zach Hayes. He posted a .913 save percentage last season and may have the skills to be in the running for next year’s Frank Brimsek Award, which goes to the state’s top senior goaltender.
What to expect next season
Just based on numbers and the luck of playing in both the Lake Conference and Section 6AA, the Royals will continue to have their work cut out for them on the ice. If Hayes can continue to play at the high level he did last year, that should help Hopkins make some modest improvement.