The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
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MICHIGAN HOCKEY MVP — Forward J.T. Compher: The sophomore had been largely dormant offensively this year, scoring just four goals with 10 assists in Michigan's first 28 games — this after a rookie season in which he had 11 goals and 20 help- ers to earn Big Ten Freshman of the Year distinction. Compher came alive in Michigan's recent eight-game stretch, scoring seven goals with two assists, while missing a contest, and recording a plus/minus of plus-5. The 5-11, 193-pounder recorded his first ca- reer hat trick in a win over Wisconsin Feb. 28, then added his second three- goal game at Penn State March 7. On The Rise — For ward Tyler Motte: Often paired with classmate Compher, Motte has broken out on his own this season, finding himself on the left wing of various centermen. More of a playmaker than goal scorer, he has a career-high 20 assists this season, including three helpers in the past eight games (along with two goals). Motte ranks third on the team in points (29) and assists. Top Freshman — Defenseman Cutler Martin: It is tough to be a rookie in a freshman class that also includes Dylan Larkin and Zach Werenski, but Martin has steadily improved this year and ranks among Michigan's top four defense- men at this point. The 6-0, 208-pounder has recorded two goals with two assists, and was plus-3, over the Wolverines' recent eight-game stretch. Returning to his hometown of East Lansing, he put Michigan up 2-0 in a 5-3 win March 13 with a first-period breakaway goal. Game to Watch — There is only one way into the NCAA Tournament — win- ning the Big Ten Tournament March 19-21. Michigan meets Wisconsin in a No. 3 seed versus No. 6 seed matchup at 8 p.m. March 19 and would have to face No. 2 seed Michigan State if it were to advance to the semifinal round. The final takes place March 21 at 8 p.m. All games can be seen live on the Big Ten Network. — Michael Spath Sophomore forward J.T. Compher posted seven goals and two assists, and had a plus/minus of plus-5, in U-M's last eight games. PHOTO BY LON HORWEDEL