Carol quotes John Gilbert's article thusly: > Boston University stands as the preseason favorite to win the Hockey East and > return to the NCAA tournament. Boston College also returns a strong nucleus. I can't help but laugh at all the people declaring BU the favorite to win Hockey East. Do these guys hang out together? As I've pointed out before, "Boston College also returns a strong nucleus" is an understatement, to say the least. While Greg Brown was (and is) a great player, he wasn't a dominating player, the kind who can turn a mediocre team into a champion. BC has many fantastic returning players who turned over the spotlight to Mr. Brown the past two years. This is the year they will gain the recognition they deserve. As much as I don't like to admit it :-), I think BC just may jump out in front pretty early and leave BU & Maine to fight it out for 2nd and 3rd, with UNH a solid bet to finish 4th & earn home ice at the very least. Oh, and Merrimack *will* move up from its last-place finish in 89-90. To where depends on 1) goaltending, 2) ability to develop a consistent offense, 3) what Northeastern does or doesn't do. The graduation of NU's Harry Mews (Washington Capitals) means Matt Saunders & Brian Sullivan are stuck where they were in 88-89, when Mews centered Rico Rossi & Dave Buda - they now have no one to give them the puck. Should be an interesting year. - mike