A confident Fargo Force team came out hard and established a fore check early on a shorthanded Des Moines squad. Des Moines only dressed 10 forwards as they had an injury and a couple of healthy scratches. Fargo’s play at home in the second game of a back to back was just too much for Des Moines. Fargo pushed the pace and physicality early and never looked back. The final ended up with Fargo earning the weekend sweep by downing the Bucs 6-1.
Lynden Breen (4 Star Amateur Rating, NHL Grade — C) Forward
Lynden had a strong season in 18-19 for Central Illinois (USHL) and was on the 2019 Draft radar. He went undrafted but is having a great season in 19-20 for the Fargo Force. His game tonight was no exception as he was the best player on the ice in our opinion. He possessed the puck in the offensive zone and made several cut backs opening time and space for himself by escaping defenders. For a smaller player he was hard to push off the puck down low. His quick feet and stick allowed him to make plays in tight areas whether it was finding an open man or creating danger by taking the puck to the net. He may go undrafted again, but he has the makings of a great college player which could land him as a free agent down the road. GAME LINE: 0-2-2 (4 SOG) GAME GRADE: A
Tristan Broz (4 Star Amateur Rating, 2021 NHL Grade — C+) Forward
Tristian is in his first junior hockey season coming out of Minnesota high school hockey from The Blake School. He has adjusted quiet well by seeing plenty of quality ice time as well as producing. He is a late ‘02’ and won’t be eligible for the NHL Draft until 2021. His game tonight was very strong and he found the back of the net twice. He had a great stick and was shifty with the puck. His best game came on the power play while he showed the ability to score from the top of the circles as he netted two wristers. It’s always hard to find players with the release that can beat a goaltender from distance and be a constant threat to score with minimal opportunities. His edges and feet were strong as he changed direction while being poised with the puck. Another off season of strength and adding some pace or urgency to his play with experience could land him as a 2021 NHL pick. GAME LINE: 2-1-3 (3 SOG) GAME GRADE: A-
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images
Game Evaluation: Lenny Hofmann