Governor's Cup Stage Set in Fairbanks

This isn't going anywhere. Credit @AKHockeyEquip

This is a big one folks. It's not like this is just another conference series, its the Governor's Cup. The series that needs no introduction. I hate to bring up the sanctions, but with no postseason this year this is the Nanooks' seniors last hardware to claim save for the potential regular season championship trophy. There are quite a few seniors this year that would love to destroy their in-state rivals. And with all of the Fairbanks locals on this team, it means a lot to them.

As a team, the Nanooks didn't have a great road series against Bowling Green. They know they lost to a good team on the road, and let a win slip through their grasp. This week is about redemption. I could go on and on about stats, essentially that the Nanooks are better in nearly every facet of the game. But it doesn't matter. Rivalries send all of the stats out the window, and they don't matter.

Realistically, the only thing I see as a potential issue for Anchorage is their special teams. They're 2nd most in the country in penalty minutes per game, but their penalty kill is a little worse for the wear. 35th in the country at only 81.6%. With all of the energy this game brings, special teams is going to be a key factor for the Nanooks. They're going to get chances on the power play and they need to execute. Simple as that.

On the personnel side, Kyle Froese is injured but other than that all of the guys are healthy. Sean Cahill is reported to start between the pipes tonight for the 'Nooks.

The guys tonight are also wearing throwback jerseys to honor the 1970's era of Nanook hockey during the team's club days. I think they look pretty good, although there are mixed opinions.

The jerseys are provided as a fundraising opportunity for the Nanook Hockey Alumni. They enrich the heritage of Nanook Hockey and raise money to support the team. For those unaware, the new banners throughout the Carlson Center were created and donated by the Alumni as well.

These jerseys will be auctioned off online after the series is over. And the silent auction is going on at the Carlson Center this weekend too. Get there early, register as a bidder and get your number and put your names down on some items to help raise money for Justin Woods and his family.

See you at the rink tonight! Go 'Nooks!