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 Red Lake Falls.
How last season went
For the Eagles, the name of the game during the 2019-20 season was scoring as they averaged more than 5 goals per game.
That scoring prowess propelled Red Lake Falls to significant success. The team went on a run from Jan. 11-Feb. 4 where the team won eight of nine contests. The Eagles picked up key victories against Lake of the Woods and Crookston. They finished the regular season with a 17-8 record.
No matter Red Lake Falls’ regular season, the team was facing an uphill climb in a very tough Section 8A. As the No. 6 seed, the Eagles went up against Thief River Falls and could not keep up as they lost 6-1 and saw their season draw to a close.
Who’s back and who’s gone
Red Lake Falls had this success during the 2019-20 season while playing with a group of players who were underclassmen. Chief among them was . He’s set to return after an eye-popping season where he scored 42 goals and 56 assists. One of his best games came against Park Rapids where he scored 2 goals and dished out 6 assists.
Other key returners include Ty Kennett, who’s set to be back following a 75-point season (34 goals, 41 assists). Evan Girdler (17G, 23A) and Nathan Huot (8G, 21A) also appear to be returning to the ice for the Eagles.
In net, it’s a mixed bag. Gone is senior goaltender Brenden Larson, who posted a .867 save percentage of .867. Andrew Johnson is back, however, after he played in 16 games with a .892 save percentage.
What to expect next season
This is a group that had a lot of success last season and can build on it next season. The problem is the section the Eagles are in is filled with some of the state’s top Class 1A schools. Red Lake Falls still has to prove that the squad is worthy of discussion as a top northern program.