Hobey Baker Watch: Jan. 16

It has been an outstanding college hockey season so far which has seen a lot of change.

There have been many teams that have surprised, while others have disappointed.

One of the most surprising teams this season has been Michigan State which is currently ranked No. 1.

The Hobey Baker Award is considered the Heisman of college hockey. This far into the season, the finalists for the award start to show.

Here are the players to watch for the award.

Isaac Howard, Michigan State, F

Michigan State is ranked at No. 1 in the national at the moment.

Their success has been led by Tampa Bay Lightning's prospect Isaac Howard. Howard the Minnesota-Duluth transfer is already one point shy of his point total from last year.

He has 37 points on the season.

Goals have been up for Howard this season. He had eight goals last year and has more than doubled that this year with 19 so far.

Howard has been one of the best players in college hockey and is a front-runner for the award.

Jack Devine, Denver, F

The National Champions from last year have found help from multiple people this season.

One of the biggest has been from forward Jack Devine. After a great season last year, the senior has taken yet another step forward.

He has totaled 31 points in 22 games this season. His most notable impact has been as a playmaker for the Pioneers.

Devine has 27 assists this season.

Trey Augustine, Michigan State, G

Besides Isaac Howard Michigan State has obtained No. 1 so far thanks to other players.

Goalies are one of the most important parts of a team and Trey Augustine has been the backstop for the Spartans.

In the 18 games he has played this season, he has posted a 12-3-3 record. Along with this, he has a .931 Save Percentage and a 2.02 Goals Against Average.

It is very difficult for a goalie to win the award, but if anyone can do it, Augustine can.

Quinn Finley, Wisconsin, F

Wisconsin hasn’t had their best season so far but Quinn Finley has been a surprise for the Badgers. Finley has posted 29 points in 22 games.

He has been putting the puck in the net with 16 goals in those 22 games.

His best game came against Ferris State where he scored two goals and one assist.

Finley has been on another level this year and has taken the next step for the Badgers.

Aiden Fink, Penn State, F

Penn State has struggled this year in conference play. They have only won two games in the conference one of which was in a shootout.

Despite the struggles, Aiden Fink has been one of the best players in college hockey. He leads the Nittany Lions in points with 28.

He also leads the team in goals with 11.

Fink was great as a freshman for the Nittany Lions and has been even better for them this season.

There are plenty of great players who could win the Hobey Baker Award this year. The race will continue to heat up as the college hockey season reaches its peak.

Andrew Matz is a third-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email atm5759@psu.edu.