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 Cloquet-Esko-Carlton.
How last season went
Through seven games, things were looking up for the Lumberjacks as they posted a 5-1-1 record. Though that trend didn’t continue at the same rate, Cloquet-Esko-Carlton still found success during the 2019-20 season.
The team averaged 3.72 goals per game while picking up wins against Bloomington Jefferson, Duluth East, Centennial, Holy Angels and White Bear Lake. That helped the squad to a 13-11-1 record and a second-place finish in the Lake Superior Conference.
In a wide open Section 7AA, the Lumberjacks emerged as the No. 3 seed. Though they were looked at as a team able to compete in this section, Cloquet-Esko-Carlton was stunned in the quarterfinals as Elk River pulled off the 5-4 win.
Who’s back and who’s gone
When looking at the Lumberjack roster, Christian Galatz immediately pops out. He’s set to return following a season where he tallied 54 points (32 goals, 22 assists). During this successful season, Galatz posted a goal and two assists in the victory over White Bear Lake and tallied a hat trick with an assist during a win against Duluth East.
There are three major departures via graduation. Aaron Moore Aaron Moore Forward Cloquet-Esko-Carlton | 2020 State MN (11G, 21A), Cole Ketola Cole Ketola Forward Cloquet-Esko-Carlton | 2020 State MN (15G, 10A) and Kaden Crane (2G, 15A) are all gone from the program after their senior seasons.
In net, there is a returner in the form of Jacob Walsh. He posted a .902 save percentage in 10 games last season.
What to expect next season
It’s safe to say those within the Cloquet-Esko-Carlton are disappointed with the end of the 2019-20 season. However, there are some bright spots, including the fact Section 7AA has been as wide open as any among those in Class 2A.