Mattika's assist was a big one too. I was hoping he'd get a little more time, but this was certainly big game experience.
The refs lost control of this game though. At one point in OT, Buccigross said, "It's prison yard rules out there." And the other announcer pointed out that the officials failed to set the standard early, then lost confidence as the game went along on the national stage to make really obvious calls. I think it might have effected the outcome of the game. But it was also good to see high stakes college hockey get rough and tumble and how the squads and players reacted.
For me, this was Celebrini vs. Buium in a big-time game with lots of NHL prospects, and these younger, draft eligible guys stood out to me as players with game-changing talent.
Fun game and I'm excited to watch the final.