Erie, Pa. – The Mercyhurst Lakers Men's Hockey team is set to face off against the Canisius Golden Griffins this weekend in an Atlantic Hockey showdown. The Lakers will look to bounce back after a challenging road series at Air Force, while Canisius enters the weekend aiming to build momentum after splitting their recent games. Puck drop is set for Friday evening at 7 PM and Saturday at 5 PM at the Mercyhurst Ice Center. 

History 

The Lakers and Golden Griffins share a competitive rivalry, with Canisius leading the all-time series 24-17-3. The Lakers are 8-11 all-time at home against the Golden Griffins and are averaging 2.86 goals per game in the series history.  Canisius claimed the first meeting this season, securing a 6-3 victory on October 22. 

Laker Outlook 

Mercyhurst (2-12-0, 2-8-0 AHA) continues to rely on the offensive contributions of Mickey Burns and Dustin Geregach, who lead the team with 10 points apiece. Burns has tallied five goals this season, including two on the power play, while Geregach has added six assists. Defensively, Caleb Price and Trent Sambrook have been stalwarts on the blue line, with Sambrook leading the team in blocked shots with 27. 

Between the pipes, Carter McPhail and Simon Bucheler have split time in net. McPhail boasts a .911 save percentage, while Bucheler has recorded two wins and 288 saves. The Lakers' power play has converted at 21.4%, while their penalty kill stands at 80.0%. 

A Look at Canisius 

Canisius (3-8-0, 3-2-0 AHA) is led offensively by Matteo Giampa, who tops the team with 12 points on three goals and nine assists. Grant Porter and Trey Funk have also been key contributors, with Porter netting a team-high four goals. On defense, Jack Budd has been a steady presence, recording 26 blocked shots this season. 

Goaltender Ethan Robertson has been a standout for the Golden Griffins, posting a .910 save percentage and a 2.49 goals-against average. Canisius' power play has operated at 18.8%, while their penalty kill has been effective at 85.0%. 

What to Watch For 

• Mercyhurst's power play, led by Mickey Burns, against Canisius' strong penalty kill. 

• A battle of top playmakers: Matteo Giampa for Canisius and Dustin Geregach for Mercyhurst. 

• Key defensive performances from Trent Sambrook (Mercyhurst) and Jack Budd (Canisius). 

Next Up 

Following the series against Canisius, Mercyhurst will have some time off before returning to the ice for a home series against Bentley.