Early reaction to Jutting firing

It's three days before the Frozen Four, but a lot of college-hockey followers are looking toward Mankato right now after the news that Troy Jutting is out as Minnesota State's coach. 

I'll get more reaction today, starting with an MSU press conference at 10:30 a.m., but here are some of the things being said about Jutting and the decision this morning ...

Former assistant coach and current MSU women's coach Eric Means: (from The Free Press' story): "I guess I'm kind of shocked. ... Looking at the writing on the wall, they're set up for a good year. If you really break it down, there may not be a David Backes, tub there are a lot of good hockey players there. They're set up to be a really good hockey team."

Former MSU defenseman Channing Boe tweeted: "Jutts was a great coach and mentor in my 4 years at MSU. Very classy and (professional) guy. Can't thank him enough for everything. Wish him the best."

Dan Myers of College Hockey News, who covered the Mavericks for the MSU Reporter and USCHO.com, wrote a column about Jutting being a class act.

Joe Schiller, who just finished his Maverick career, responded to Myers' column via Twitter: "Great job capturing Jutts the man. I thank for every opportunity."

Jess Myers of Inside College Hockey tweeted: "Sadded to hear about Troy Jutting. Always a class act, and good to deal with. Hoping he lands on his feet."

Bruce Ciskie, radio guy in Duluth, tweeted: "Jutting leaves some solid pieces in place with guys like Leitner, Lafontaine, Gaede, etc., ready to make a leap."

Eric Stromgren, former Bemidji State beat writer, tweeted: "Troy Jutting is out as coach at Mankato. He was a colorful interview and one of a kind in the WCHA. Bold move by MSU."

Chris Dilks, who writes the Western College Hockey blog, has a post about the move and also tweeted: "As much as a move had to be made, college hockey is definitely losing one of its most colorful characters."

Also, the Twitter is blowing up with thoughts of Jutting's successor. The usual suspects have been mentioned, including Minnesota assistant Mike Guentzel and North Dakota assistant Carey Eades. Other names that have popped up include Ohio State assistant and former Duluth assistant Steve Rohlik and Nebraska-Omaha assistant Mike Hastings, among others.

Stay tuned for more throughout the day.