Scouting the Cadets: Giant killer a year ago, St. Thomas Academy coach Trent Eigner said, “A No. 8 seed is what we were last year. I don’t feel that way this year.” A reason for optimism: The Cadets “won” three of the six periods in the two losses to Eden Prairie. Conversely, they also gave up five goals in a period to Hill-Murray. “We know why we’re good and why,” Eigner said. “We also know why we’ve struggled.” Another surprise tournament runs starts with goalie Carsten Lardy and two forward lines anchored by Jackson Hallum and Jared Wright, respectively. And Max Nagel is a scoring threat.

Scouting the Eagles: Here they come. Again. Eden Prairie, runner-up the past two seasons, seeks its first crown since 2011. Several veteran players bear the scars. But what coach Lee Smith admires is “our kids always had a purpose for why they were showing up to the rink. They knew what they wanted to get back to.” The potent top line of Carter Batchelder, Jackson Blake and Drew Holt dazzles, but the Eagles’ best attribute is five returning defensemen. “We defend better than those past teams,” Smith said. “And our goalie, Zach Hayes, has been playing really well against the top teams.” The senior has stopped 93% of shots faced.

Worth knowing: Batchelder, Hallum and Eden Prairie defenseman Luke Mittelstadt are three of 10 finalists for the Mr. Hockey Award, presented to the state’s top senior skater.

White Bear Lake watch party: Downtown White Bear Lake will play host to the “Bear Paw Thaw” on Friday and Saturday. An outdoor hockey state tournament viewing party will start at 1 p.m. Saturday. A large mobile viewing screen will be parked on Washington Square. Local restaurants will offer to-go specials so folks can eat at picnic tables while watching the games. Admission is free.

NHL flavor: Wednesday’s quarterfinal meeting of No. 1 seed Eden Prairie and St. Thomas Academy features two players already drafted by NHL teams. Eagles’ senior defenseman Mason Langenbrunner and Cadets’ senior forward Jackson Hallum were drafted last summer. The Vegas Golden Knights chose Hallum in the third round (91st overall) while Boston chose Langenbrunner in the fifth round (151st overall).

Tickets might be available: An e-mail Tuesday to state tournament season-ticket holders indicated that a small quantity of tickets could be available. The Minnesota State High School League did not make tickets open for public sale. But if the schools don’t use their allotment for the semifinals and finals, season-ticket holders could get the opportunity. Season-ticket holders were encouraged to “stay connected to your e-mail” for any ticket notifications.