Shaved Ice – March 30

It’s not very nice out today – so here’s the plan: everybody leave work early to read Shaved Ice and relax.  Brian Kalisher here to spread more great ideas.

Quick hits

Michigan junior forward Chris Brown has decided to leave Ann Arbor a year early to sign with the Phoenix Coyotes.  Coach Berenson didn’t seem thrilled with that plan, saying:

“We are disappointed in Chris’ decision to leave Michigan and not graduate with his class.”

Get ready for some Frozen Four action coming your way starting April 5.  The Ferris State Bulldogs will represent the Mitten for the first time in program history.

No Wings action to catch you up on this afternoon.  They dropped a 4-2 decision to Columbus on Wednesday and take the ice tonight against Nashville to duke it out for the fourth spot in the West.  Jimmy Howard says he’s ready to play – but Mike Babcock will make the final call.

Highlight reel

Check out this compilation of Ferris State’s journey to the Frozen Four.

Outside the Mitten

Former Michigan goaltender Al Montoya made his Michi-gamer debut, leading the New York Islanders to their second consecutive win over a tough Pittsburgh Penguins squad.  He’s our Michi-gamer of the night.

Montoya’s teammate Josh Bailey recorded two goals and three assists in the win for the first five-point night by an Islander at home since 1996.

Evgeni Malkin didn’t walk away empty-handed, however.  He notched his 100th point of the season and is in the lead to take home the Art Ross trophy.

Check it out

A few of the Mitten’s favorite CCHA players are leaving for the NHL.  Former MSU captain Torey Krug signed with Boston, Michigan netminder Shawn Hunwick is now with Columbus, Michigan’s Greg Pateryn inked a deal with Montreal, and Michigan forward Chris Brown joined up with Phoenix.

Next up

We’ll see you in April (or just after the weekend) to talk about how the Wings did and catch you up to speed on the latest college hockey news.