Entering this season, the Minnesota State men's hockey team had numerous questions to answer. One of the most important ones was goaltending.
But thanks to the play of junior goalie Mike Zacharias, one of the Mavericks' biggest questions has been answered.
The Plymouth native has been one of the team's biggest surprises this season, mostly because he was expected to share time with fellow junior netminder Dan Tormey.
Tormey's play so far this season, however, has left a lot to be desired. Luckily for the Mavericks, Zacharias' play has been the main headline for the team through 12 games.
Junior defenseman Brian Kilburg is in his fifth season playing in front of Zacharias - as the two were also teammates in the United States Hockey League.
"I think he's just warming up right now," Kilburg said. "He's a hard worker and just keeps working harder and harder. He's just getting his opportunity now."
Zacharias earned the start in the season opener last season at Notre Dame, but never played in the game after injuring his leg during warm-ups. Tormey played a majority of the time until a hand injury forced him out of the line-up for an extended period. During that time, Zacharias was counted on to carry the load.
"It helped a lot," Zacharias said. "Getting into those games really boosted my confidence which helps goalies a lot. It was a great learning experience."
That trial by fire has paid off this season.
Through 12 games, Zacharias ranks in the top-six in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association in goals against average (1.82) and save percentage (.930). If he maintains those numbers over the rest of the season, it is almost assured he will rank in the top-10 in the nation.
"He's played very well and needs to continue to play well," said Mavericks head coach Troy Jutting. "If you're going to be successful, you need to get his type of performance."
Zacharias doesn't point out any changes in off-season regiment or daily routine. Very humble, Zacharias instead talks about his teammates playing well in front of him.
"I knew coming we had some good young defense," Zacharias said. "I'm very pleased with how they have come out and played so far."
His experience last season seems to have also slowed the pace of the game down. Zacharias has rarely made the spectacular save this season because he's put him in position to make it look routine.
"At an earlier day, Zacharias used to be a little flashy," Kilburg said. "But I think now he has realized he needs to keep it simple. He doesn't need to make that play as long as he's just stopping the puck."
Zacharias has thrived while playing a lot of games in the USHL, leading the league in ice-time in his final season.
"I like to play in every game I can," Zacharias said. "I know back in juniors I was kind of a workhorse, and I've had that reputation all the way back since squirts. That's the condition I'm used to."
This weekend's opponents - the Wisconsin Badgers - will provide Zacharias with a new challenge this weekend. The Badgers bring offensive punch with top-line forwards Kyle Turris and Ben Street. Freshman Ryan McDonagh and senior Kyle Klubertanz can score from the blueline.
"I haven't watched any film of these guys, but I've heard all the hype," Zacharias said.
Minnesota State and Wisconsin will get underway Friday night at 7:37 p.m. and Saturday at 7:07 p.m. Both games will be played at the Alltel Center.
Dan Myers is the Reporter sports editor
