Terrier men's hockey returns for season opener against Holy Cross – Boston University News Service

By Allyn Tucker

Boston University News Service

The wait is finally over: Boston University Men's Hockey returns tonight. The anticipation has been building since April, when the second season of the Pandolfo era came to an end.

The Terriers open the season against the Holy Cross Crusaders. The game is expected to be the start of another successful season for BU Hockey. Since coach Jay Pandolfo took the reins, the team has made two consecutive Frozen Four appearances, so expectations remain high for continued strong postseason success heading into the 2024-25 season.

Although fans will find many familiar faces in the squad, the squad will look a little different this season. Former Terriers stars Lane Hutson and Macklin Celebrini, Hobey Baker Award finalists and winners respectively, both moved to the NHL in the offseason. The pair combined for 113 points in the 2023-24 season, meaning the team has big shoes to fill.

Luckily for the Terriers, while one Hutson leaves, another makes his debut. Defenseman Cole Hutson is one of the few big additions to this year's roster and provides dynamic defense and offensive power to the team. Hutson also has the unique experience of being part of the only brothers currently playing for Boston University. Cole joins his brother, forward Quinn Huston, on the ice this season.

In addition to Huston, new forward Cole Eiserman is a highly anticipated addition to the Terriers' locker room this fall. Eiserman is known for his outstanding scoring ability and will put on a show at Agganis Arena. The 18-year-old holds the US National Team Development Program's all-time record with 127 goals, putting him at the top of an impressive list of names.

With these additions, BU Men's Hockey is ranked third in the USCHO preseason poll along with the rest of the roster. The Terriers, who are in the opener, are the big favorites for their first win of the season at odds of -750.

The Crusaders have an uphill battle ahead but they have gained confidence after their most successful season in a decade, passing the 20-win mark last season for the first time since 2012/13.

The two teams meet tonight, October 5, at BU's Agganis Arena. To kick off the 2024-25 season, puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m