CC loses it all

This was not supposed to be the year of the big market college teams dominating the WCHA. This was supposed to be the year where UND and CC made a run for the post season.

That was at the beginning of the season, and today tells a different story.

Colorado College has had a rough season. From coaching all the way down to goal-tending, CC has had problems with it all. To give a break down, I will analyze the Colorado College issues from the very top to bottom:

Coaching:
Colorado College has seen ups and downs over the years, but this could possibly be one of the worst downs in the Owens era. This was supposed to be the season that the Tigers did something. Instead of doing something, the coaching let the fans, players and school down. Owens clearly showed his inability to make valuable changes from Friday to Saturday night. Most of the time, CC would win on Friday and not make any adjustments resulting in a Saturday loss. On the last game of the season, when everyone needed Owens present, he was gone. His adjustments were weak and thus cost this team a chance at the post season and a shot in the WCHA final five. Another problem with Owens is that he relied too much on the Schwartz brothers and Gabe Guentzel. All three are remarkable athletes but two of the three are guaranteed to be gone next season. With a hole that deep in the team, CC is destined to be relegated to a low spot next season less any adjustments which Owens could not seem to make this season.

Offense:
This was the story of the season. At one point, CC had the best offense in the nation. Everything seemed to be clicking. Unfortunately for the Tigers, most of the offense was a result of the Schwartz brothers. Rylans back-to-back hat tricks against UND. Jadens flawless ice vision and showmanship. Unfortunately most of the offense failed to show outside of these two players. Unfortunately, one for sure but maybe both of the Schwartz brothers will be gone next season.

Defense:
This was the bad story of the year. Ryan Lowery left a hole to fill that no one could do. Having the captain on offense proved to be disastrous. The defense needed the leadership. They just didn't have it. Which brings me to the last point.

Goaltending:
Joe Howe was absolutely horrible this year. This was not the time to hit a slump but never the less, Howe hit one. Luckily Thorimbert picked up his tab and earned the fans money. Unfortunately, Thorny came too late. Too little experience coming from last season. This situation is probably the only area the tigers have that will improve. Thorny should be a starting lock for best goaltender next season. I doubt Joe will recover before graduation.

Prediction:
CC's 21 consecutive winning season streak will end. So too will other things.