Minnetonka vs. Maple Grove
7 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 15

Minnetonka visits Maple Grove on Thursday in a nonconference meeting between talented teams fed by large and successful youth development programs from these hockey-loving communities. 

After dropping the first two games of the season, Minnetonka responded by winning three consecutive games, including an impressive 10-1 win over Blaine on Dec. 6. The No. 8-2A Skippers (3-2-0), who outscored opponents 17-4 on the streak, are getting goals by committee, with 12 players registering at least one score through five games.

No. 17-2A Maple Grove improved its record to 4-1 following a 6-2 victory over Anoka on Saturday night, a win in which the Crimson outshot the Tornadoes 25-8 through the first two periods and converted on four of their five power plays. Maple Grove has been productive on offense, averaging more than five goals per game, and is powered by senior captain Sam Huff, who has eight goals and 15 points.