The Hockey News:     http://www.thn.com
 
Here's how things measure up in Hockey East this season. Teams are listed in
predicted order of finish. Last year's league records, finishes and play off
fortunes in parentheses. Eight teams qualify for the playoffs.
 
1. Boston University
2. New Hampshire
3. THE MAINE BLACK BEARS- (16-7-1, third place, barred from post season play
for NCAA violations). Coach: SHAWN WALSH. Kingpin: Left Winger STEVE KARIYA,
19, made a 28 point improvement from a year ago and has become a dominant
player with his speed, craftiness and creativity. Fresh Face: TUOMO
JASSKELAINEN,
20, combines all -around skills and hard nosed intensity. Outlook: A strong
second half from goalie ALFIE MICHAUD; the addition of several good first
year forwards and the incentive of being able to play in the NCAA tournament
will compensate for inexperience on defense.
4. Boston College Eagles
5. UMass Lowell Riverhawks
6. Merrimack Warriors
7. Providence Friars
8. UMass Ameherst Minutemen
9. Northeastern Huskies
 
 
 
Vicki Price