The status of Maine's leading scorer, Hockey East POY and Hobey Baker finalist Spencer Abbott is uncertain for tonight's Hockey East Championship Game with the Eagles. Abbott took a vicious hit to the head in the third period of last night's 5-3 victory over Boston University.
"Abbott chased a puck into the corner to the right of the Boston University net. Terrier defenseman Sean Escobedo pursued Abbott and looked to finish a check, when Abbott lost his footing. Escobedo's forearm struck Abbott in the head as he hit the ice, and his left ankle appeared to jam as he hit the boards.
Abbott did not return following the hit, and Maine coach Tim Whitehead did not say whether or not he would be available on Friday."
If Abbott misses the game, Maine coach Tim Whitehead will likely move sophomore Mark Anthoine to the first line alongside Flynn and Joey Diamond. Anthoine potted the game-winning goal in last night's semifinal victory over the Terriers.
Boston College faces Maine tonight in the 28th Hockey East Championship Game at 8 PM at the Garden. BC is 7-5-0 all-time against the Black Bears in the Hockey East Tournament, including six meetings in the title game (the most of any other HEA opponent for Boston College). The Eagles have won each of the last three meetings with the Black Bears at the Garden, including a 7-6 overtime victory in the 2010 title game.
Both BC and Maine, along with Boston U. and UMass-Lowell are a lock for next week's NCAA Tournament, regardless of the outcome of tonight's title tilt. Merrimack is squarely on the bubble and needs some help tonight.
Go Eagles!
Boston College vs. Maine in the Hockey East Tournament Title Game
2010: Boston College def. Maine, 7-6 (OT)
2000: Maine def. Boston College, 2-1
1998: Boston College def. Maine, 3-2
1990: Boston College def. Maine, 4-3
1989: Maine def. Boston College, 5-4
1987: Boston College def. Maine, 4-2