ASU Hockey: Sun Devils drop back-to-back games, leave the Three Rivers Classic winless

Following a 12-day break holiday break, Arizona State (4-12-4) was itching to get back on the ice at the Three Rivers Classic in Pittsburgh.

The Sun Devils were set to face No. 11 Providence in the first game and then either Robert Morris or Lake Superior State in game two.

Game One

The Sun Devils got off to a sluggish start against the Friars, allowing the first (and eventually game-winning) goal just five minutes in the game after a successful penalty kill.

The penalty kill; however, would be the only bright spot on the night as Providence piled on the goals, netting two more in the second period and three in the final frame to secure the 6-0 win.

The Devils did kill off four of the five penalties against them, but couldn’t capitalize on any of their three chances on the man advantage.

All things considered, Joey Daccord performed admirably. The North Andover, Massachusetts native saved 37 of 43 shots, including some big saves to keep ASU in the game early on.

The offense just never could get going as it mustered just 17 shots to Providence’s 43.

Following Lake Superior State’s 4-0 loss at the hands of Robert Morris, ASU faced LSSU in game two.

Game Two

The final game of the Three Rivers Classic got off to a rough start for the devils as once again they conceded the first goal.

Lake Superior State capitalized on a loose puck just 1:10 into the game to take the first lead.

It didn’t take long though for the Sun Devils to respond, as Tyler Busch scored just minutes later to knot the score up at one.

Busch’s goal would be the only one of the game for ASU. Lake Superior State goalie Nick Kossoff shut down the Devils from then on, stopping 48 of 49 shots he faced.

While they severely out-chanced Lake Superior State by a good margin, the Lakers were more opportunistic, scoring four goals on just 21 shots for a 4-1 win.

For Arizona State, the struggles have remained the same. A lack of effectiveness with the man advantage being one of the most glaring.

After New Years, ASU will head to the Ice Vegas Invitational where they will face off against Northern Michigan followed by either Boston College or Michigan Tech.

With the second half of the season officially in full swing, the Sun Devils will need to figure out the winning formula to get on the right track.