Bjugstad and Gophers look for road wins in Vermont

It is the time of year when individuals give thanks for family, friends and loved ones. Fans of the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers men’s hockey team gave thanks before the season started to Nick Bjugstad and his decision to play his junior year for the Maroon and Gold.

Bjugstad will help to lead Minnesota on the road this weekend to the Gutterson Fieldhouse in Burlington, Vt. for two versus the Catamounts of the University of Vermont. The Gophers are looking to improve above a .500 win percentage on the road this year with at least three points on the weekend.

The 6-foot-6-inch, 220 pound forward who’s NHL rights are owned by the Florida Panthers, may have to lead from the bench or in the press box. A bit of the flu is in Bjugstad’s system and it is unclear what his role will be against the Catamounts.

Minnesota currently sits 2-2-1 on the road in the first quarter of the season. A couple victories against a Vermont team in the lower half of the Hockey East Conference standings would be something to be thankful about for Minnesota.

Wins cannot be guaranteed on the road, especially against a Vermont team that split last season at Mariucci Arena versus Bjugstad’s squad.

An Eastern time zone building means two 6:05 p.m. CT opening face offs for the Gophers in Vermont.

Prediction: Friday – 4-2 win for Minnesota. Saturday – 3-2 loss for the Gophers. Bjugstad with a goal in each game if he makes it on the ice. If not, look for Travis Boyd to break out.