Offseason breakdown No. 51: Mora/Milaca
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 Mora/Milaca.…
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Continue ReadingWith 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 Mora/Milaca.
How last season went
The Mustangs kicked off the 2019-20 season in a strong way as they opened the season with consecutive wins. Then, Mora/Milaca followed that up with an unbeaten streak that spanned from Dec. 19 to Jan. 3.
When the regular season concluded, the Mustangs sported a 15-9 record that included wins against Moose Lake and Ely.
Mora/Milaca headed into the Section 5A tournament in the play-in round. Going up against Sauk Rapids-Rice, the Mustangs struggled to find the net as they lost 2-0 to the Storm and saw their season draw to a close.
Who’s back and who’s gone
Parker Mitchell certainly established himself as a legitimate scorer last season with Mora/Milaca and is set to return for the Mustangs. He scored 28 goals to go along with 20 assists. Those numbers were aided by a two-game stretch where Mitchell notched 9 points.
Jack Kritzeck also appears to be a key returning piece. He was the team’s second leading point-getter with 28 (13 goals, 15 assists). Ben Nordenstrom, the team’s starting goaltender most of last season, is also set to return after posting a .887 save percentage last season.
Two key graduating players for the Mustangs are Kolton Brodal and Nate Burski. These two seniors provided a punch on offense as they combined for 21 goals and 17 assists.
What to expect next season
Mitchell clearly established himself as a dominant force for the Mora/Milaca offense. It’s logical to say those numbers could increase next season. With other key returners, there’s a chance for the entire team to take a step forward. It also benefits the Mustangs that their section is chalked full of non-traditional powers and there’s an open door for a number of teams to come out of that section.