During his college career, University of Maine defenseman Dave MacIsaac tallied 80 penalty minutes in 110 games. He also had 14 goals and 65 assists.

MacIsaac has a new enforcer role these days, although his offensive prowess has also shown through during the American Hockey League’s Calder Cup playoffs.

MacIsaac and all-time Black Bear point-getter Jim Montgomery (301 points in 170 games) have led the Philadelphia Phantoms into the Calder Cup finals against Saint John, New Brunswick, beginning Saturday in Philadelphia.

MacIsaac, 26, had 241 penalty minutes and 28 points in 80 games during the regular season and was a plus-22, second-best among AHL defensemen.

“I’ve always been a fighter. But you can’t do it in college,” said MacIsaac. “I’ve been in 16 or 17 fights this season and I’ve only lost one. I’m not a goon, but I stand up to people. That’s my role.”

In the playoffs, his 15 points in 12 games top all defensemen. He has only 14 penalty minutes.

MacIsaac’s transformation from fighter to scorer in the playoffs has even surprised him.

“I don’t know what’s going on,” said MacIsaac, who considers this his best pro season. “The puck has been going in for me lately. They’ve put me on the first power-play unit and that has helped a lot.”

One of the primary reasons MacIsaac hasn’t fought in the playoffs is because he is wearing a full face shield to protect a broken sinus cavity courtesy of a stray puck.

Montgomery, meanwhile, has registered nine points in his last three playoff games and has eight goals and 13 assists in 14 games. He is third in the league in playoff scoring. He had 19 & 43 in 68 regular-season games and was a plus-20.

“My play was average during the regular season, but I’ve picked up my game in the playoffs,” said the 28-year-old Montgomery. “I’m playing to the best of my capabilities. I’m on a roll right now. Every time I’m on the ice, I feel like I’m going to do something. I feel like a threat.”

Both said the Flyer organization treats the Phantoms very well, the fan support has been excellent, and they would love a title.

“All I care about is winning a championship. I’ve always wanted to be a winner. That’s why I chose Maine,” said Montgomery.