CC hockey: Defensive effort fuels Schultz's scoring streak

Stephen Schultz is doing better than expected, much like the No. 13 Colorado College Tigers as they head into a road series this weekend at Minnesota State-Mankato.

The junior wing from Westbury, N.Y., has a six-game streak with at least a point.

His offense may not be surprising after three game-winning goals last season and seven points (six assists) this year, but it’s how he’s doing it.

“He’s always had offensive skills and good hands. That part doesn’t surprise me,” coach Scott Owens said. “I’m pleased with the consistency and his work on defense.”

That has helped his line — paired with senior Mike Testwuide and David Civitarese — become effective and start most games.

Schultz said his streak can be connected to an offseason commitment to the defensive end that’s paying off on the other side.

“It’s about playing as a whole and being the best player I can,” he said. “To me blocking a shot is as big as getting a point. Those kinds of plays are paying off on offense because the defense is setting up those opportunities.”

Schultz’s improvement mirrors the team. Players expected to do well offensively — like Bill Sweatt and his 12 points in the past five games — are chipping in on defense and vice versa. For example, senior defenseman Nate Prosser has a five-game points streak, with most points coming on the nation’s No. 2 power play (34 percent).

It’s all developed into a well-rounded team highlighted by unselfish play.

“We’re playing a good team game,” Owens said. “A lot of guys have improved.”

Unranked Mankato (3-4-1, 1-4-1) had two weeks to prepare for the Tigers (5-2-1, 4-1-1) after losing and tying at Denver. The Pioneers, North Dakota and CC are tied for first.

Mavericks junior Rylan Galiardi leads a balanced squad with six points (three goals) ahead of four players, including senior Zach Harrison (four assists), with five points each. Sophomore goalie Austin Lee (2-2, 3.26 goals against, .904 save percentage) and freshman Kevin Murdock (1-2-1, 3.58, .899) are splitting time.

CC is paced by Sweatt (14 points, nine assists), junior Tyler Johnson (10, five goals), freshman Rylan Schwartz (10, seven assists) and freshman goalie Joe Howe (5-1-1, 2.41, .925).