College hockey

MAINE vs. NORTHEASTERN

Time, site: Friday and Saturday, 7 p.m.; Alfond Arena, Orono

Records: Maine 20-1-5 (8-0-5 Hockey East); NU 9-9-3 (5-5-3)

Series: Northeastern leads 26-21-6

Key players: Maine – C Tim Lovell (12 goals, 15 assists), D Jeff Tory (4-22), C Dan Shermerhorn (16-8), C Brad Purdie (15-8), D Chris Imes (3-19), LW Scott Parmentier (8-12), G Blair Allison (20-1-5, 2.55 goals-against ave., .891); Northeastern – LW Jordon Shields (11-20), RW J.F. Aube (13-9), RW Jason Melong (8-12), D Danny McGillis (6-11), C Mike Collett (4-12), C Scott Campbell (4-12), G Todd Reynolds (2-7-1, 4.91, .856).

Outlook: The Black Bears expect a tough series against the reeling Huskies, who are 2-6-1 in their last nine games. Maine hopes to capitalize on an NU defense that has allowed 38 goals in its last six outings (6.3 gpg). Maine’s 2.54 goals per game average and its 33-percent power-play success rate lead the nation. Allison ranks No. 2 nationally with a 2.55 GAA. The Huskies rely on good starts, as they are 1-7-2 when tied or behind after one period. In HE play, 12 of Maine’s 14 games have been decided by two goals or less, with six going into overtime. Maine’s stingy defense has allowed 20 or fewer shots on goal in nine games.