In noting the recent postings about the national top 20, I would like to
state a brief case for MINNESOTA.  I noticed a lot of reasons for the top 4
(and then MN #5) were returning players.  Well, speaking from local
knowledge the Gophers only lost a few players and the reason they were at
the final four was due to tough defense and scoring at the right time.  This
year, Minnesota returns its entire defense, but loses a few forwards; mainly
Scott Bell.  But to cover that, once again Minnesota had  an outstanding
recruiting year signing many players from the high school ranks within the
state.  Experience from last year's freshman (Crowley, Kraft, etc.) will
just make them that much better in key situations.
        In conclusion, I think many will be surprised as to how well the
Gophers do this year.  From a confident and biased standpoint, I think the
Gophers should be considered for higher ranking than #5, but I guess we'll
just have to see when the season starts.
 
 
Nat Malen
UW- Eau Claire
 
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