Hobey Baker Watch: Week of Jan. 30

The calendar is turning to February. We’re one month closer to NCAA playoff action and players across the nation are stepping up their game for a chance at the trophy. Which players are looking unstoppable this week?

Macklin Celebrini, Forward, Boston University

Celebrini tallied a goal against Boston College in the battle of Comm Ave., then followed it up with a two-point performance against Northeastern days later. Not even a quick turnaround can slow the freshman down.

Now up to 35 points on the year through 22 games, Celebrini is finding ways to make his first-overall projected stock even higher. Still only 17, he’s only gotten better against older competition as the year progressed.

Gabe Perreault, Forward, Boston College

The kid has the talent to find a needle in a haystack with his eyes closed. The freshman just continues to impress against even the toughest opponents in the nation. In the No. 1 vs. No. 2 between Boston College and Boston University, Perreault tallied two goals en route to a huge sweep over the rival Terriers.

The New York Rangers prospect has accumulated 36 points in 23 games this season. It will be exciting to see how the rest of Perreault’s season pays off.

Rutger McGroarty, Forward, Michigan

In a big series against Wisconsin, McGroarty brought his best. In the two-game series, the sophomore tallied three points against a stubborn defense. His efforts allowed the Michigan Wolverines to grab a win and an overtime point.

In 19 games this season, McGroarty has racked up 34 points. Last year he tallied 39 points in 39 games, so looking at his improvements, he’s on pace to smash his previous records.

Seamus Casey, Defenseman, Michigan

On the same Michigan boat as McGroarty, Casey had himself a nice three-point weekend of his own. With three assists on the weekend, he was a big factor in Michigan’s efforts.

The sophomore is already beating his career high in points with 33 after tallying 29 in his freshman season. Casey is second in the NCAA in assists with 28, leading defensemen in that category.

Aiden Fink, Forward, Penn State

The youth movement in Happy Valley got to work against Ohio State over the weekend. Aiden Fink rattled off three goals and an assist in a crucial sweep over the Buckeyes.

He leads all Big Ten freshmen in scoring with 32 points on the season. He’s tied for 11th in the nation in points while also being top 15 in goals with 15 twinefinders. He’s also up to eight powerplay goals on the year, a Penn State single-season record.

He’s dangerous with and without the puck, making him a must-watch player every time he’s on the ice.

Chris Hedden, Defenseman, Air Force

This might be the first time that an Air Force player has made the list, but Chris Hedden has had a superb season. A three-point weekend against Canisius bumps his season point totals up to 32 in 29 games.

Only the best blueliners collect this many points, and Hedden is making a name for himself by matching his play with the best.

Anthony Desher is a third-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email acd5698@psu.edu.