Michigan State is on a roll, making its third straight NCAA Tournament appearance-a feat they haven’t achieved since the late 2000s. With 30 overall appearances under their belt, the Spartans boast a balanced record of 31-31-1, including 11 Frozen Four showings and three national titles. This year, they’re stepping in as the No. 3 overall seed and leading the Worcester regional, where they’ll face off against Dartmouth, Wisconsin, and UConn.
Securing their third consecutive Big Ten regular-season title, the Spartans edged out Michigan and Penn State. Their defensive prowess was unmatched in the Big Ten, leading in goals against average, save percentage, and special teams efficiency. Offensively, they were no slouches either, ranking third in scoring.
Since January, Michigan State’s power play has been a force, converting at a nation-leading rate. Their 4.0 goals per game during this stretch highlight their offensive firepower.
The top line of Daniel Russell, Charlie Stramel, and Porter Martone has been electric, combining for 130 points and a stellar +86 rating. Martone’s 20 goals led the Big Ten, placing him among elite company in conference history.
Defensively, Matt Basgall earned the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, while Trey Augustine snagged the Goaltender of the Year award for the second year running. Stramel and Martone joined them on the All-Big Ten first team, with Russell earning honorable mention. Coach Adam Nightingale was deservedly named Big Ten Coach of the Year.
Augustine and Stramel are Hobey Baker finalists, marking a rare occasion of dual representation for MSU in the award’s history. Stramel’s dominance at the face-off circle and knack for game-winning goals have been crucial, while Augustine continues to shine, being a Mike Richter Award finalist again.
Martone and Stramel have both surpassed the 40-point mark this season, a first for MSU since 2007-08. With Russell close behind, the Spartans are poised to have three players hit this milestone for the first time since 2002-03.
Martone’s impressive freshman campaign sees him climbing the all-time ranks for goals and points, with a chance to break records set decades ago.
The Spartans are set to take on UConn in the first round in Worcester. Buckle up, it’s going to be a thrilling ride!