Mavericks dominate CCHA preseason picks

As I continue to consider the logistics of a Substack page/newsletter, possibly with a paid subscription. (for now, sign up here), the new CCHA came out with its preseason awards and predictions on Monday.

Minnesota State, which won the last four straight WCHA championships, is the favorite to win the first CCHA regular season title, per the league's head coaches, five of whom gave the Mavericks their first-place vote. Here are the results:

1. Minnesota State (5) 67 points

2. Bemidji State (1) 63 

3. Michigan Tech (2) 55

4. Northern Michigan 54

5. Bowling Green 46

6. Lake Superior State 45

7. Ferris State 32

8. St. Thomas 30

Mavericks junior forward Nathan Smith, who came on strong in the NCAA tournament, was picked as the conference's Preseason Player of the Year, a bit of a surprise, as senior goalie Dryden McKay was the WCHA's top player last season, as well as a Hobey Baker and Richter Award finalist. Smith, a second-team All-WCHA selection last season, had 25 points, including nine goals a year ago and was the WCHA's top power-play point scorer (13).

Smith and McKay were among four MSU players to make the CCHA's Preseason All-Conference Team, joining senior forward Julian Napravnik and sophomore defenseman Akito Hirose. Northern Michigan forward Joseph Nardi and Michigan Tech defenseman Colin Swoyer were the other selections.

Finally, Bowling Green forward Austen Swankler was named CCHA Preseason Rookie of the Year.