Omaha Hockey Press Conference: Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026 (Miami (OH) Preview)

Feb. 25 Press Conference

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Hey, Coach. I’ll start it off, and then G (Griffin) can join when he gets here.

 

Emma Goldstein (Sports Information, Omaha Athletics):

Questions for Head Coach Mike Gabinet?

 

Timothy Rowher, UNO Blue Line Club Newsletter:

Well, before anything, can we get your comment on the Team USA performance there? And with the fact that, you know, Jake (Guentzel) was on (the) team, does that say anything about the program here?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah, absolutely. I think it’s pretty special that you’ve had an Olympian come through the program there, and do so well. And what an exciting hockey game there. And obviously, former Coach David Quinn — who recruited me to Omaha — so (I) sent him a text as well. So that was pretty exciting to see those two guys get to celebrate a gold medal there. And we were obviously out in Arizona there, but I think the whole team was up at 6 o’clock (a.m.) to take in the game there. So, really good. Probably one of the fastest first periods of hockey I’ve ever seen. And obviously, great win for Team USA. And congratulations to Jake (Guentzel) and David Quinn.

 

Mike Patterson, Omaha World-Herald:

Does it surprise you what Jake has gone on to accomplish professionally, Mike?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah. Just the times I’ve been on the ice with him and just watching him play, no. I think that’s a rare talent to have somebody with that ability. I mean, he’s one of the 12 best forwards in the whole country. So I think that’s pretty special what he’s done there. And yeah, again, even Lindsey (Ekwerekwu), our academic advisor that kind of handles all our academics for our department — I won’t butcher her last name — but she was just commenting on, too, how even though he left after his junior year, he finished his degree and just the type of kid he was and always nervous to making sure everything was done on time, and just how he conducted himself.

 

So, (he’s a) pretty special hockey player and obviously made a good impact as a human being with his character as well.

 

Timothy Rowher, UNO Blue Line Club Newsletter:

So they got up 6:00 in the morning to (watch)?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah, I think so. I think it was pretty exciting to watch. And I know I was up. And yeah, kind of definitely something that a lot of people wanted to see for sure.

 

Mike Patterson, Omaha World-Herald:

Moving on to this weekend, Mike — huge series with Miami. Just talking about the last couple of games here at Baxter this season, and the importance of this series.

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah. Well, we needed two points there in ASU. We got three. Obviously, we wanted six. But again, you can see we’ve been doing the things we need to do to keep ourselves in the mix here. And yeah, now two, obviously, super critical games here coming down the stretch here. So again, talking to the guys, I think we’re trying to use it as excitement, excitement as an opportunity to play some meaningful hockey here down the stretch, and be ready to go. So, really looking forward to that opportunity here to compete this weekend against a good Miami team.

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

You’ve talked a lot about players taking ownership of the team’s environment. How have you seen that leadership show up this season, especially at this point in the season?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah, I think it’s constantly growing. I think you’re seeing guys… And I think one of the nice things as a coach is when you don’t have to always say state the obvious or state what needs to be worked on, you’re starting to hear the players talk about it. “This is how we need to play to be successful.” “Hey, we got to be doing these habits, these details to our game in order for us to be playing our best hockey.”

 

And so I think when you hear the players talking about it, you’re seeing them improve at it. That’s when you know you’re trending in the right direction, and you’re seeing that growth.

 

Mike Patterson, Omaha World-Herald:

Mike, the last home games for the seniors, just talk about the seniors, including Griffin (Ludtke) and Simon (Latkoczy) and the rest.

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Well, I think it was nice. We had senior weekend the weekend before, and we’ve seen quite a few teams do that around the country there in the past few years. And I think it was nice to do that, because it’s such a great…we have an event after the game, and you get a chance to see all the families and the parents that you’ve got to know so well over the years and really get a chance to celebrate them.

 

And then now you get to go and focus on playing two really important hockey games here and kind of being just present in that moment. You don’t have any outside emotions or distractions. There’s extra stuff that obviously they will still be going through. So again, I thought it was a real special senior weekend there to get a chance to see everybody there.

 

And then now, like you said, hopefully, these guys just get to enjoy it and be excited about it. And let’s get after it. Let’s play some good hockey. Let’s compete out there. Let’s do everything we can to give ourselves a chance of success here. So that’s my message to them. Stay present here, and stay in the moment, and enjoy it. And I’m looking forward to watching these guys play this weekend.

 

Tyler Doremus, UNO Gateway:

What would it mean just to send the seniors out on a high note with a series win this weekend?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah, let’s do it, man. I think that’d be great. I think that’s what we’ve been building towards. That’s why we put in all the work, and keep showing up and keep harping on the guys, keep holding guys accountable, keep on having high standards and how we do things here. And it’s all for that. It’s all to let these guys have a chance to play their best hockey when it matters the most. And they’re all capable of doing it because of the work they put in.

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

What did you like coming out of that Arizona State series, and what are you emphasizing this week looking forward to Miami?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah. I didn’t love our first maybe seven minutes of the game on Friday, but after that, I thought we played some really good hockey on Friday night. And then actually, that first period on Saturday, looking back, it was surprising. I was pretty upset after the game. And I think that’s why it’s always good to watch back and see what the facts are telling you and what reality is telling you.

 

I think oftentimes — whether you’re a fan or media or whatever — you can really get swayed by the outcome, right? And I think it’s really important as a coach to go back and look at the actual game and see what you did well.

 

And so I think it wasn’t as bad as I thought it was, looking back, but definitely some things that we needed to do to be successful that we’re not quite doing consistently enough that we did on Friday night. So that’s the message. You really got to get these guys to understand and keep learning on sometimes you just got to keep on playing — I hate the word simple — but you got to do some things that are just going to give you that chance of success. And if you start playing with fire and you start giving pucks to teams that are really skilled, it can go the opposite way there. So not as bad as I thought it was right after the game, but definitely some things that we have to get better at in order to win two hockey games, which is obviously the goal here moving forward.

 

Tyler Doremus, UNO Gateway:

What can you say just about Marcus Nguyen’s performance on Friday night — and just his growth throughout the season?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah. Again, I think he’s just like any young player, right? You’re seeing that — some really good things, and you’re seeing those areas where he’s got to keep getting more consistent at, right? And those are just the facts. That’s what I tell him to his face. 

 

But you’re seeing that growth, man. You’re seeing that growth. And I think he’s bringing some really good speed to that line. You can see he’s got the ability to finish on the net and score big goals for us there, too. So he just keeps getting better. And again, just another guy that I just feel like is getting better. He’s just been getting better all season long. And he continues to work on that consistency, and bringing that effort and that energy every night. And obviously, he’s a big part of our team here.

 

Mike Patterson, Omaha World-Herald:

I know you take them one at a time this weekend, Mike, but if you could get the sweep, you know you’re going to be in the playoffs. So it’s still in your hands.

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah. What an opportunity, right? What an opportunity for us there, right? It’s in our hands to do that. It’s an opportunity to work on some of the things we’ve talked about working on all season — what I just talked about, that consistency and bringing it there. And yeah, we get that opportunity this weekend here.

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

You obviously faced a high-scoring forward in Cruz Lucius just last weekend. This weekend, you’ve got David Deputy coming in. What does it take defensively as a unit to shut down not just one player, but an entire offense like that?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah. You’re seeing that a little bit in our league, right? Teams have a top line, right, or maybe a top two lines, and you have to be conscious of that. And I think one of the biggest compliments you can get as a team or a player is playing smart, right?

 

And I think that goes to a lot of things going into that. One is knowing your opponent and respecting them, obviously, but also doing the things necessary to make it a really tough night for them against you and taking pride in that, too. So I think that’s something we’ve talked about as a group. You have to be conscious of who you’re out against and what that play is calling for you to do that best helps the team. And so that’s something that obviously we got to be conscious of this weekend when you’re facing firepower.

 

Tyler Doremus, UNO Gateway:

What do you take just from the first series against Miami earlier this year? What do you kind of take to this weekend?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah. Again, just, hey, looking back, what do we need to be better at, and how do we keep improving, and then boom, move forward and get after it.

 

Mike Patterson, Omaha World-Herald:

Mike, what can you say about Griffin (Ludtke), someone who stayed with the program all the way?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah. You know what? It was good. Emma asked me today who (to have as the player in the press conference). Usually Emma picks the press conference (player) or (gets) requests for people. But it was nice.

 

I said, "Hey, let’s get G (Griffin) up here." Obviously, I think that was kind of fun – to kind of a guy that’s been our captain all season long with Simon here and just done a tremendous job staying positive and keeping working and showing up and being consistent in his daily approach here, which is great. So I think it’s just kind of nice to recognize him for a little bit here.

 

And I know he’s talked a lot. He’s probably just looking forward to playing this weekend here. But again, nice to have him up here with me. And again, I think in today’s environment, it’s a partnership, right? You really got to work with your team. You got to be together. You win together. You lose together. It’s not “me” when we win and “them” when they lose. It’s “us” all the time. And I think that’s the sign of — when adversity hits, I think that’s when you get your biggest indicator of mental toughness, character, all those things. And like I said, you got to go back, look at the facts, and then you got to show up and get better, you know, right? And you’re doing that. People that care and that you care about, good things happen. And I think when it matters most, good things will happen.

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Awesome. Okay. Thanks. Thanks, G (Griffin). I’ll let you go. Okay.

 

Emma Goldstein (Sports Information, Omaha Athletics):

Questions for Griffin?

 

Mike Patterson, Omaha World-Herald:

Griffin, just kind of your thoughts on this last weekend here at home as one of the seniors.

 

Griffin Ludtke (Senior Defenseman, Omaha Hockey):

Yeah. I think it’s going to be tough to explain. I think something that I’ve been really just emphasizing and trying to be all year is present, and just enjoying the small moments from day to day and just moving from one day to the next throughout the week. So I think there’s going to be a lot of emotions that I can try to prepare for, but that really will do me no service. So I think I’m just excited to play. Kind of like (Coach Gabinet) said, there’s a lot of anticipation for this weekend, and a great opportunity ahead of us. 

 

So I know win or lose on Saturday, that that’s my last game at Baxter — along with the six other seniors — five who have been here the whole time. And I know that that’s going to be a special moment. And we’re going to do everything we can to be on the right side of it.

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

We probably should have kept Gabs (Coach Gabinet) here for this because we always ask him what he thinks about the players. But talk about him as a coach — and the coaching staff — especially over these last four years.

 

Griffin Ludtke (Senior Defenseman, Omaha Hockey):

Yeah. I owe a lot to this staff. I remember (coach) Dave Noel-Bernier recruited me when I was 15 at the Omaha Lancers camp here and brought (Coach Gabinet) along to come watch me. So I’m 23 now. So I’ve known these guys for eight years of my life. And it’s been a really special eight years.

 

And I believe that relationships will go far beyond my time here as a player and as a student. So, I’ve seen them grow a lot over the last four years, too. And I think that’s something that you have to have. I think college hockey — and college sports as a whole — has changed a lot. And I give them credit for adapting even in areas that aren’t necessarily natural to their strengths, too. And I think that’s something us as players recognize. And also, when we’re faced with opportunities to grow in areas we’re not necessarily gifted in — or that come naturally — I think it’s a lot easier to do that when you have strong examples at the top.

 

Tyler Doremus, UNO Gateway:

What’s just the team mindset going into this final weekend?

 

Griffin Ludtke (Senior Defenseman, Omaha Hockey):

I think it’s honestly the same mindset it’s been the last few months. Like, we’ve … every series is we’ve treated like a playoff series. And sometimes we come out of it with two wins, one win, or no wins, but we’re treating it the same way. And I think that’s what’s so cool about this group is our mentality hasn’t changed. We have fun every single day. You wouldn’t think we were the last-place team in the NCHC based on how we show up, on how we work, but also on how we love and care on each other, too.

 

I don’t think losses should change your outlook on how you’re going to operate throughout the week. I think you have to obviously take those (seriously) and grow where it’s needed. And if you can’t do that, then I don’t think the league or this team is for you. But I think everyone on our team is capable of doing that, and having fun and enjoying each other’s presence at the same time. 

 

So the mentality is simple. We won practice today. We’ll win practice tomorrow. And then Friday will roll around. And we just take it day by day.

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

You guys showed some tremendous resilience on Saturday night battling back to tie the game. And Miami has had flashes where they get up and then they give it away. Does that give you some idea of how quickly things can change maybe this weekend if you don’t come out to the start that you want?

 

Griffin Ludtke (Senior Defenseman, Omaha Hockey):

To be honest, I didn’t even know that that was a trend that they had in their game. I think both teams are going to emphasize having a great start. And I think that’s something we still want to have, and will push to have, because that can dictate a lot of the game, too.

 

And I think part of our growth areas this season has just been keeping our foot on the pedal and not having that lull in the second period, and coming out ready to play in the third (period). But I think a lot of that just starts with our first few shifts, getting everyone into the rotation, and then going from there. 

 

So, to be honest, I haven’t thought about that. And I don’t think I will. I just think we’re going to pride ourselves on a great start and go from there.

 

Mike Patterson, Omaha World-Herald:

As someone from Minnesota, Griffin, what was it like — (cough) excuse me — watching that Olympic hockey game on Sunday with all those Canadian guys? And just your thoughts on Jake Guentzel, someone from the UNO hockey program, being part of that?

 

Griffin Ludtke (Senior Defenseman, Omaha Hockey):

Yeah. First, just to speak on Jake, I haven’t met him. But when I committed here, my parents sent out a jersey to him. And he signed it and wrote “To Griffin, enjoy UNO and best of luck with your career." So I have that up in my room back at my house in Minnesota.

 

So I’m grateful for that. And I thought it was so cool that he played here because my favorite player is still Sidney Crosby. And at that point, Jake was playing with Sid. And they were pretty special together. So I think it’s great for him, great for our country, (and) great for our university to have ties to Jake. I know we’re proud of him here. And honestly, just me and Tyler Rollwagen and Chase LaPinta, I believe, are the three — we have a couple of dual citizens — but we’re the three Americans on the team as players. 

 

And we were pretty proud. We love our country. And we’re super happy to see (it), especially the reactions of the U.S. players, too. I thought it was so cool how they’re proud to be American and proud to represent our country. So it was special. And it was fun to win, surrounded by surrounded by some Canadians, too, where there’s a little more on the line.

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

Last week, speaking of Tyler (Rollwagen), he quoted you as saying, “We hold the pen to our story.” With the final chapters being written now, is this group capable of writing a surprise ending? And what has to be true for that to happen?

 

Griffin Ludtke (Senior Defenseman, Omaha Hockey):

100%, we’re capable. We’ve been capable of more than we’ve shown this year. And I think everyone in our locker room would agree with that. It’s unique. I think you just asked (Coach Gabinet) a question. But we still have that opportunity. Despite everything, despite the one-goal losses, despite a couple of kicks to the gut where you just are like, “Oh, we got to flush that weekend,” we still have control — or a chance at control. And I think that’s something that can’t be overlooked. And I think that’s something that should be exciting, and not debilitating. It shouldn’t make us freeze.

 

I think if you’re going to — if it’s going to come down to the last weekend and the last game, I think those are games you dream about, at any level. So, of course, we have the ability. And there’s a lot of belief in the room. And it’ll be a special weekend.

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

I have one more (question) then. So I want to close the loop on something real fun. Going back to the first press conference, I had asked you who was holding the aux (cord) in the locker room. And you said it was still on rotation. You have a whole season worth of data now. Tell us, who’s the best DJ.

 

Griffin Ludtke (Senior Defenseman, Omaha Hockey):

So unfortunately, still on rotation. But Cam Briere is going to take the cake for that one. He’s done a great job. And he’s got a wide variety. But the freshmen are heavily into EDM (electronic dance music) and, I don’t know, bass music. So they’re coming in to stretch at night. And they’re still listening to music you’d hear at a club. So they’re a funny group. But yeah, Cam Briere.

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

Awesome. 

What Does Omaha Need to Make the NCHC Playoffs?

With one weekend left in the regular season, it all comes down to this. The top eight teams in the NCHC advance to the playoffs, while ninth place brings the season to an immediate end. For Omaha, the stakes are simple: earn points, and the season continues. Fall short, and the season is over.

Omaha enters the final weekend one point behind Arizona State for the eighth and final playoff spot. Because Arizona State holds that one-point advantage, the Mavericks must earn at least one more point than the Sun Devils this weekend to catch them in the standings. If the teams finish tied in total points, Omaha would win the NCHC regulation wins tiebreaker and claim the final playoff spot.

Arizona State controls its own destiny, but faces one of the toughest challenges in the conference, closing the regular season on the road against a Denver team tied for second in the NCHC standings.

The NCHC awards three points for a regulation win, two points for an overtime or shootout win, one point for an overtime or shootout loss, and zero for a regulation loss. That means each team can earn anywhere from zero to six points this weekend.

Here are all the ninth-place scenarios:

If Omaha earns 0 points (finishes with 21)

Omaha is eliminated regardless of Arizona State’s results.

Arizona State would finish with at least 22 points and claim the final playoff spot.

If Omaha earns 1 point (finishes with 22)

If Arizona State earns 0 points (finishes with 22) → teams finish tied → Omaha makes playoffs (Omaha wins in regulation wins the tiebreaker)

If Arizona State earns 1-6 points (finishes with 23-28) → Omaha finishes ninth

Omaha would need Arizona State to be swept in regulation to create a tie scenario.

If Omaha earns 2 points (finishes with 23)

If Arizona State earns 0 points (finishes with 22) → Omaha makes playoffs

If Arizona State earns 1 point (finishes with 23) → teams finish tied → Omaha makes playoffs (Omaha wins in regulation wins the tiebreaker)

If Arizona State earns 2-6 points (finishes with 24-28) → Omaha finishes ninth

If Omaha earns 3 points (finishes with 24)

If Arizona State earns 0-1 points (finishes with 22-23) → Omaha makes playoffs

If Arizona State earns 2 points (finishes with 24) → teams finish tied → Omaha makes playoffs (Omaha wins in regulation wins the tiebreaker)

If Arizona State earns 3-6 points (finishes with 25-28) → Omaha finishes ninth

This is the classic “split weekend” scenario. Omaha would need Arizona State to earn no more than one point at Denver.

If Omaha earns 4 points (finishes with 25)

If Arizona State earns 0-2 points (finishes with 22-24) → Omaha makes playoffs

If Arizona State earns 3 points (finishes with 25) → teams finish tied → Omaha makes playoffs (Omaha wins in regulation wins the tiebreaker)

If Arizona State earns 4-6 points (finishes with 26-28) → Omaha finishes ninth

If Omaha earns 5 points (finishes with 26)

If Arizona State earns 0-3 points (finishes with 22-25) → Omaha makes playoffs

If Arizona State earns 4 points (finishes with 26) → teams finish tied → Omaha makes playoffs (Omaha wins in regulation wins the tiebreaker)

If Arizona State earns 5-6 points (finishes with 27-28) → Omaha finishes ninth

If Omaha earns 6 points (finishes with 27)

If Arizona State earns 0-4 points (finishes with 22-26) → Omaha makes playoffs

If Arizona State earns 5 points (finishes with 27) → teams finish tied → Omaha makes playoffs (Omaha wins in regulation wins the tiebreaker)

If Arizona State earns 6 points (finishes with 28) → Omaha finishes ninth

A sweep gives Omaha its strongest path, but they would still need Arizona State to earn four points or fewer to guarantee the playoff spot outright.

NCHC Tiebreakers:

The official NCHC tiebreakers for playoff seeding follow a specific order established by the conference. (You can find that page here.)

The first tiebreaker applies only if the tied teams played a balanced schedule against each other, meaning an equal number of home and away games. In that case, the higher seed is awarded to the team with the best regulation winning percentage in head-to-head conference games against the tied team or teams. If the schedule between tied teams is unbalanced, this head-to-head criterion is skipped entirely and the conference moves to the next tiebreaker. 

The next tiebreaker is the greater number of NCHC regulation wins. This counts all regulation wins in conference play, not just head-to-head matchups. 

If still tied, the next tiebreakers are regulation winning percentage in head-to-head games, regulation goal differential in head-to-head games, and regulation winning percentage against other conference opponents, starting with the highest-ranked teams and continuing down the standings until the tie is broken. If none of those criteria resolve the tie, the final tiebreaker is a coin flip. 

Because Omaha and Arizona State played an unbalanced schedule this season, the balanced head-to-head tiebreaker does not apply. The first applicable tiebreaker would be total NCHC regulation wins — and Omaha holds a decisive edge in that category, with 7 regulation wins compared to 4 for Arizona State. Because overtime and shootout wins do not count toward this tiebreaker, only regulation victories are used. That means if the teams finish tied in points, Omaha would win the tiebreaker and claim the final playoff spot.

The Bottom Line

Omaha does not fully control its destiny. The Mavericks must earn at least one more point than Arizona State this weekend to catch the Sun Devils in the standings — and would win the regulation wins tiebreaker if the teams finish tied.

There are no more games. No time to recover from mistakes or wait for next weekend.

Every shift matters now.

The Mavericks enter the final weekend needing points (and help) to extend their season. Regulation wins carry the most weight. Overtime could change everything. A single point could be the difference between moving on and the season ending.

For the seniors, it is the last time they will skate at Baxter Arena wearing an Omaha jersey. For everyone in that room, it is the final chance to keep writing their story.

Two games. Six points available. A season on the line.

What happens next will decide whether this team’s story continues, or ends.

As Tyler Rollwagen said last week, quoting captain Griffin Ludtke:
“We hold the pen to our story.”

This weekend, the Mavericks will write the ending.

Omaha vs. Arizona State University Weekend Recap (Feb. 20-21, 2026)

By Bridget (Weide) Brooks

Omaha came to Tempe needing points in the standings and left with three, splitting the weekend with Arizona State in a series that featured momentum swings, special teams success, and one explosive third period that got away from the Mavericks.

Omaha claimed Friday’s opener 4-2 behind two goals from Marcus Nguyen, but Arizona State responded Saturday night with a 6-3 win to earn the split and reclaim eighth place in the NCHC standings. With one weekend remaining, Omaha sits at 21 points — still within reach of making the NCHC playoffs, but with no margin for error.

Friday, Feb. 20, 2026

Omaha 4, Arizona State 2

Arizona State struck first Friday night, but Omaha responded immediately and never trailed again.

Cruz Lucius gave the Sun Devils a 1-0 lead just over four minutes into the game, but Marcus Nguyen answered less than a minute later, redirecting Griffin Ludtke’s shot to tie the game at 1-1.

That quick response set the tone.

Omaha grabbed the lead midway through the period on the power play when Brett Hyland capitalized on a rebound in front, and the Mavericks carried that 2-1 advantage through a tightly contested second period.

The turning point came early in the third.

With Omaha on the power play just 2:01 into the period, Ludtke found Jérémy Loranger in the slot for a one-timer that extended the lead to 3-1. The Mavericks added an insurance goal midway through the period when Nguyen scored his second of the night off a feed from Trevor Wong, giving Omaha a three-goal cushion.

Arizona State added a late goal with just over two minutes remaining, but the outcome was never seriously in doubt.

Nguyen led Omaha with two goals, while Ludtke and Wong each recorded two assists. Loranger and Hyland also scored, and Simon Latkoczy made 31 saves to secure the win.

Special teams played a major role. Omaha went 2-for-4 on the power play and killed all four Arizona State opportunities — a decisive advantage in a game where both teams generated consistent offensive pressure.

It was exactly the kind of game Omaha needed with the standings tightening late in the season.

Saturday, Feb. 21

Arizona State 6, Omaha 3

Saturday night was a very different game.

Arizona State built an early lead and capitalized on key moments, including a five-minute major penalty late in the first period that helped the Sun Devils take a 2-0 lead into the intermission.

Omaha battled back behind Tyler Rollwagen.

Rollwagen scored twice in the second period, both on the power play, cutting Arizona State’s lead to 3-2. His first came on a 5-on-3 opportunity, and his second came off a rebound in front to keep Omaha within striking distance. 

The Mavericks completed the comeback early in the third when Jérémy Loranger tied the game 3-3, finishing a play from Sean Tschigerl and Brett Hyland.

For a brief moment, Omaha had all the momentum.

It lasted 68 seconds.

Arizona State answered almost immediately to retake the lead, then added two more goals over the next five minutes to pull away and secure the 6-3 win. The Sun Devils scored three goals in a seven-minute span to break the game open after it had been tied.

Loranger led Omaha with a goal and two assists, while Rollwagen scored twice. Maxime Pellerin added two assists in the loss. 

Arizona State’s top line — led by Cruz Lucius, who recorded five points — proved difficult to contain, particularly during the decisive stretch in the third period.

Takeaways from the weekend

• Special teams were a major positive. Omaha’s power play went a combined 4-for-9 on the weekend, including two power-play goals each night. That efficiency kept the Mavericks in position to win both games and helped fuel Saturday’s comeback attempt.
• Quick responses defined Friday’s win. Arizona State opened the scoring Friday, but Omaha answered immediately and never let the Sun Devils build momentum. Those quick responses — especially Nguyen’s tying goal just 59 seconds later — changed the trajectory of the game.
• Saturday showed how thin the margin is. Omaha battled back from a two-goal deficit and tied the game in the third period on the road. But Arizona State’s immediate response — followed by two more goals — underscored how quickly games can swing late in the season.
• The standings remain tight. The split allowed Arizona State to reclaim eighth place with 22 points, while Omaha sits just behind with 21. The final weekend will determine positioning heading into the NCHC playoffs.

Final thoughts

There were positives to take from the weekend, particularly Friday’s controlled road win and the power play success both nights.

But Saturday also showed how quickly momentum can shift, and how costly a few minutes of breakdowns can be.

Omaha proved it can generate offense, win special teams battles, and respond under pressure. Now, the Mavericks need to put together a full 60-minute performance when it matters most.

The regular season concludes next weekend at Baxter Arena, where Omaha will host Miami in a series that could determine postseason positioning.

Line Chart – Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026 – Omaha vs. Arizona State University (Tempe, AZ)

Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026

Omaha vs. Arizona State University at Mullett Arena (Tempe, AZ)

Final: 6-3 ASU

Scoring for Omaha:

Tyler Rollwagen (PP)

Tyler Rollwagen (PP)

Jérémy Loranger 

Line Chart – Friday, Feb. 20, 2026 – Omaha vs. Arizona State University (Tempe, AZ)

Friday, Feb. 20, 2026

Omaha vs. Arizona State University at Mullett Arena (Tempe, AZ)

Final: 4-2 Omaha

Scoring for Omaha:

Marcus Nguyen

Brett Hyland (PP)

Jérémy Loranger (PP)

Marcus Nguyen

Series Preview: Omaha at Arizona State University (Tempe, AZ), Feb. 20-21, 2026

By Bridget (Weide) Brooks

The final road trip of the regular season brings Omaha Hockey to Tempe, where the Mavericks face Arizona State in a series that has clear postseason implications for both teams.

Omaha (10-20-0, 6-14-0 NCHC) sits ninth in the conference standings with 18 points, just behind Arizona State (13-18-1, 6-13-1 NCHC), which holds eighth place with 19 points.

With only four regular-season games remaining, the margin for error is gone — and both teams know it.

Head coach Mike Gabinet didn’t mince words about the importance of the weekend.

“You gotta approach it like a playoff series… everybody knows what’s at stake here,” he noted.

Senior forward Tyler Rollwagen echoed that sentiment, describing the mindset entering the series in equally direct terms.

“Going into ASU, it’s a playoff series… we gotta get some points.”

The Mavericks have dropped three of their last four games against ranked opponents, including last weekend’s home series, where they were swept by No. 8 Denver. But Omaha has proven throughout the season it can compete with top teams. The Mavericks have six wins against ranked opponents, including road victories over then-No. 3 Minnesota-Duluth and then-No. 3 Western Michigan.

Now comes the challenge of getting the consistent results needed to climb the NCHC standings.

For Omaha, the key is executing the style that’s worked at its best.

Rollwagen emphasized the importance of starting fast and dictating play early.

“We wanna play simple. We wanna play fast and get to our forecheck… we’re at our best when we’re playing down low and really making other teams defend.”

That approach will be critical against an Arizona State team that thrives when playing with the lead. The Sun Devils are 8-3-0 when leading after the first period but winless when trailing after one.

Omaha has faced its own consistency challenges this season, particularly finishing games. The Mavericks are 10-2-0 when leading after two periods but winless when trailing after two (0-11-0).

Gabinet pointed to those pivotal swings as defining moments.

“Those big moments in the game… you gotta find ways to make sure you’re on the right side of those big moments,” he said.

Offensive production has come by committee this season, with 20 of Omaha’s 26 skaters recording at least one goal and eight players scoring five or more.

Trevor Wong and Luke Woodworth lead the team with 17 points each, while Maxime Pellerin and Marcus Nguyen pace the Mavericks with eight goals apiece.

Griffin Ludtke anchors the blue line offensively, leading the team with 14 assists.

Freshman forward Jérémy Loranger added his fifth goal of the season in Saturday’s game against Denver, while senior Samuel Huo opened scoring on Friday night.

The addition of Ryan McCleary has also provided a boost on the back end. The Pittsburgh Penguins draft pick joined the team in January and scored his first goal as a Maverick last weekend.

Arizona State Has Offensive Talent
ASU enters the series on a five-game losing streak, including a sweep at Western Michigan last weekend. But the Sun Devils remain one of the more dangerous offensive teams in the conference.

Senior forwards Cruz Lucius and Bennett Schimek lead the team with 38 points each, ranking among the top scorers nationally. Lucius leads the team with 12 goals, while Schimek’s 27 assists are tied for the NCHC lead.

Their top line, which includes sophomore Cullen Potter, has been one of the most productive in the country, combining for 89 points earlier this season. (Potter is out with a season-ending injury.)

Special teams could play a decisive role. Arizona State’s power play ranks among the best in the conference at 24.0%, while Omaha counters with a penalty kill that has improved throughout the season.

Gabinet emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline and continuing recent progress.

“Our guys have really grown in that department… power play being good, penalty kill being good… they’re key when you’re playing these good teams.”

An Opportunity to Shape the Postseason
This weekend represents more than just another road series. It’s a chance to change the trajectory of Omaha’s season. Both teams are separated by a single point in the standings. Both are fighting for positioning entering the NCHC tournament. And both understand the urgency. The ninth place team in the conference doesn’t get a spot in the playoffs.

Gabinet expects exactly the kind of battle that situation demands.

“They played extremely hard… it should be a hard-fought series,” he said.

For Omaha’s seniors, including Rollwagen, the stakes carry added meaning as their collegiate careers enter the final stretch.

“We hold the pen to our story… it’s all in our hands right now.”

With only four games left before postseason play begins, the Mavericks now head to the desert knowing exactly what’s required: A playoff-style series, in every sense.

When:
> Friday, 8 p.m. CT at Mullett Arena (Tempe, AZ)
> Saturday, 6 p.m. CT at Mullett Arena (Tempe, AZ)

Radio:
The game will be broadcast live on 1290 AM and on The Varsity Network app. Pre-game coverage begins 30 minutes prior to face off with the FNBO Pre-Game Show. “Voice of the Mavs” Mike Vaillancourt will have the play-by-play, with color commentary provided by Terry Leahy.

TV:
The game will be streamed on NCHC.tv ($) 




On this episode of the Mavpuckcast, Jon and Bridget talk about the University of Nebraska - Omaha Maverick Hockey team’s recent series against Denver at Baxter arena (includes their picks for “Player of the Week”). They talk about some “Things You Missed at Baxter Arena,” including this year’s “Stripe Out” and Senior Night. They wrap up the episode with their preview and predictions for Omaha’s upcoming hockey series versus the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mullett Arena in Tempe. 

Next Weekend:

Omaha returns to Baxter Arena for the final regular season home series vs. Miami (OH). Friday night’s game is Leap For a Cure night while Saturday night has been designated a White Out. Both games are at 7:07 p.m. Central time.

Omaha Hockey Press Conference: Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026 (Arizona State Preview)

Feb. 18 Press Conference

Emma Goldstein (Sports Information, Omaha Athletics):

Questions for Tyler (Rollwagen).

 

Mike Patterson, Omaha World-Herald:

Well, uh, Tyler, just talk about this big series coming up against Arizona State. The Mavs really need to have a good series on the road.

 

Tyler Rollwagen (Senior Forward, Omaha Hockey):

Yeah. Yeah. I think we're, uh, we focused on a good week of practice to start. Uh, I think we had three good days here. And, um, yeah, uh, going into ASU, it's a playoff series. So that's what we talked about. Um, you know, we gotta get some points and, uh, going in there and, uh, just playing our game and, and focusing on us and what we can do to, uh, impact the game and get to our game.

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

On Saturday night, you had a season high for yourself — four shots and two blocks. And that's obviously a high for you. What was the mentality for you going into that game? Is it something the coaches challenged you on, or is it just personal, you know, coming down to the end of your college career here, "I'm gonna do whatever I can"?

 

Tyler Rollwagen (Senior Forward, Omaha Hockey):

Yeah. Yeah. I think, like, you know, uh, uh, going into that game, I don't think there was anything, like, “shoot the puck more.” But, uh, no, I think that's just the way the game goes sometimes. You get more looks. And, um, I thought our line played, played pretty well on Saturday. And, uh, yeah, coming down to the last couple games here as a Maverick, uh, I think throughout the whole year and I — I would hopefully say my whole career here — every game, I kinda, you know, lay it all out there, so.

 

Mike Patterson, Omaha World-Herald:

Kind of piggybacking off that, Tyler, um, as a senior, just kind of what are your general thoughts on how the season's gone so far?

 

Tyler Rollwagen (Senior Forward, Omaha Hockey):

Yeah. A lot of learning. It's been great. Um, you know, you see the day-to-day process every day. And our habits are good, our day-to-day process coming to the rink every day and, and trying to learn and get better. Um, I think that's the biggest thing I've taken away throughout the year. It's sometimes the results. Sometimes it's hockey. Sometimes you play really good and don't get a win.

 

Sometimes, you know, the opposite as well. So I think coming every day to the rink, I think this group has done a great job of bringing energy, bringing some juice, and, and ultimately putting in the work, whether that, that weekend went well or not.

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

You've talked about getting to your game first and letting your play take over. What does that look like on the road at Arizona State?

 

Tyler Rollwagen (Senior Forward, Omaha Hockey):

Yeah. I think for, first and foremost, like, getting to a good start. I think we wanna play simple. We wanna play fast and, and get to our, uh, like, forecheck. I think our forecheck is gonna be big. Um, I think we're, are at our best when we're playing down low and, and really making other teams defend. So I think having that mentality of, of playing simple first and then, um, you know, letting our plays take over and, and keeping some of that offense alive and, and really, uh, honing in on some areas that we feel like they may struggle in.

 

Tyler Doremus, UNO Gateway:

Uh, piggybacking off of that too, uh, the team has kind of struggled with some consistency just over playing full games.

 

Tyler Rollwagen (Senior Forward, Omaha Hockey):

Yeah.

 

Tyler Doremus, UNO Gateway:

How do you just keep that consistency and keep playing your game for an entire 60 minutes?

 

Tyler Rollwagen (Senior Forward, Omaha Hockey):

Yeah. I think we've talked about it a lot too. I think, uh, Coach said something on Friday. Like, we played a good game for 30 minutes there, 40 minutes there. So, uh, you need to play a full 60-minute game to win in this league. And, um, it's not easy to do. Uh, it's, uh, something that we're really trying to work on, that, that consistent approach of the last, you know, three minutes of a period the first three minutes of the period, the couple shifts after a goal, for and against. So I think having a great mindset of when that stuff and when the big moments in the game come up is, uh, really kinda rising into the occasion.

 

Mike Patterson, Omaha World-Herald:

With, uh, the season winding down, Tyler, playing in the NCHC, how tough is it to stay mentally, uh, focused? I know the season hasn't gone the way the Mavs have, have wanted it to, but how tough is it to stay mentally in it?

 

Tyler Rollwagen (Senior Forward, Omaha Hockey):

Yeah. I would say it's a little bit tough. But I think, like anything, um, I don't think we'd be here if we weren't mentally tough. So, uh, I think this group has done a great job of, of showing up every day, like I said, and, and kinda just, uh, whatever the noise is and we've talked about that this week, some noise, um, and whether that can affect you or not is, at the end of the day, is, uh, a choice that you need to make. So, um, yeah, it's really tough. And, and I think, uh, Griff (captain Griffin Ludtke) said it, “We hold the pen to our story.” So I think it's all in our hands right now. And I think there's not a guy in that room that wouldn't want it any other way, so…

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

Speaking of your story, uh, looking back at your career as a Maverick — and again, there's still four regular season games and hopefully lots more after that — but it might be our last chance to see you in this setting. What, um, what have you learned over these last years that really have helped kinda define who you are and, and what it means to be a Maverick?

 

Tyler Rollwagen (Senior Forward, Omaha Hockey):

Mm-hmm. I think kinda one thing I've been just kinda reflecting on is, is sometimes things aren't as big as you make them. Um, I know we've really talked about that a lot — is, is kinda you get that false narrative of your in your head of kinda just stuff snowballing. And it's how quickly you can just, you know, you know, cancel that out and, and really think about kinda stuff that can go right in your life. And whether that be in hockey or, or stuff in your personal life, I think that's something I'll always take away from this place is, is having that mindset of kinda just “what can go right.”

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

One last question. Who do you have winning the gold in the hockey and the Olympics, women and men?

 

Tyler Rollwagen (Senior Forward, Omaha Hockey):

Uh, USA, USA! So I think they (the women) play tomorrow. And then (the men’s team for) USA is playing right now. So we got a good bunch of guys around the TV rooting for Sweden, so…

 

Mike Patterson, Omaha World-Herald:

I'm not sure the guy sitting next to you will agree.

 

Tyler Rollwagen (Senior Forward, Omaha Hockey):

Yeah.

 

Emma Goldstein (Sports Information, Omaha Athletics):

Questions for Coach?

 

Mike Patterson, Omaha World-Herald:

Coach, just kinda general thoughts on this really big series coming up against a team that's just ahead of you (in the NCHC standings).

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah. Like Rollie (Tyler Rollwagen) said, kinda fun 'cause it's, you know, you guys gotta approach it like a playoff series,right? Obviously, very important games. We all know that. And yeah, trying to keep, uh, keep, uh, you know, keep calm about it a little bit. But obviously, there's a lot of urgency here, just like it would be for a playoff weekend here. So it's, uh…everybody knows. Everybody knows what's at stake here.

 

And we're preparing appropriately and making sure we're doing everything in our power here to, to give ourselves the best chance of success this weekend here. So, like Rollie said, man, you guys have been showing up and putting the work in. Attitude's been great. And practice has been fantastic. And so we're working, man. We're working and, uh, looking forward to getting after (it) this weekend.

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

Against Denver, you had to defend for long stretches of time. What from that series needs to carry over to Arizona State?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah. Again, I, I think Saturday night, I, I really liked our game. You know, (we) did a lot of good things. And, and like you said, I think it's just that, you know, those big moments in the game, you gotta find ways to make sure you're on the right side of those big moments, whether it's, uh, a turnover, a, a draw, um, you know, something — you gotta make sure that you're prepared, whether to defend that or to capitalize on that in those big moments of the game. And I think you're seeing that a lot during the season.

 

Um, there's really good stretches, of pretty back-and-forth hockey. And then it's those key moments that are gonna define the, the game. And so we gotta make sure that we're prepared for those, and that we come out on the right end of those.

 

Mike Patterson, Omaha World-Herald:

Mike, how much has the have you and the team talked about the exact standings going into this weekend and just the urgency of, of hopefully getting at least one (game) and

maybe two (games) down there?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah. And everybody knows. Everybody knows the stats. Everybody, everybody's done the math in their head and, uh, and just knows, you know, how important it is to, to get some points down there — and, uh, so everybody's aware. Everybody knows. Um, and, uh, we're preparing accordingly. And, uh, we'll be ready to roll here. Mm-hmm.

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

Special teams, obviously, (are) important, especially on the road. Um, and Arizona State had a lot of penalties last weekend against Western (Michigan). What have you liked from your power play recently, and what does it still need to be, uh, to be sharp this weekend?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah. Well, first off, I think our you know, just even if you look at the start of the year until now, I think our guys have really grown in that department, both whether it's taking penalties, drawing penalties, um, power play being good, penalty kill being good. Like, again, you see the growth. And that's what I think Rollie talked about a little bit. So it can be frustrating at times when you're seeing the growth, but you're not always seeing the immediate results.

 

And, um, but again, I thought both special teams, you know, performed well. Again, they're key. You know, when you're playing these good teams, it's key. It's key. It, uh, gives you a chance of game momentum to get in the game, to put the game away. Um, so (we) gotta continue what we did against Denver here and, and, uh, be ready for, you know, ASU that's got a talented power play. And, um, you know, obviously, we'll, we'll see what it looks like here with the officiating this weekend.

 

Tyler Doremus, UNO Gateway:

You talked about them having a really talented power play. Uh, but your penalty kill has always been really good, especially in the last two series. How do you just keep that going?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah. Just keep working on it. You know, just like anything, you gotta keep focused on it. You gotta keep looking at it, finding ways to get better at it, talking to the guys, watching video with the guys. We worked on it again today for a long time. So just keep, keep with it, you know, right? Keep, uh, keep tweaking it, keep growing for it, keep learning from it, work on your execution, and, uh, uh, all the all the above.

 

Mike Patterson, Omaha World-Herald:

Mike, thoughts on Arizona State, a team that's in the same boat as the Mavs? They're desperate for points.

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah. Yeah. You could tell they played extremely hard against Western Michigan, watching those games back. They, they're, they're you know, they're not leaving stuff to chance either. They're playing extremely hard. And again, a little bit of story of the league, right? Extremely talented roster, just like, you know, if you, you know, it's kinda, kinda mind-blowing a little bit that you've got us and CC and ASU, like, you know, pretty — in my opinion, pretty good hockey teams that are, are right there, Miami, St. Cloud, all those teams. So, um, yeah, they're you know, they know the situation too, I'm sure. And, uh, that should be, uh, should be for a hard-fought series here.

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

Any updates on player availability for this weekend?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah. I think it's, uh, it's looking pretty good. We got a couple of guys right now that are banged up a little bit. But we'll see here. Uh, we'll, we'll, we'll travel tomorrow here and, and, uh, see who's all available. But hopefully, uh, everybody's healing up okay here after the, the weekend and should be available for, for Friday night here.

 

Tyler Doremus, UNO Gateway:

Uh, with the idea of both teams obviously needing to win, do you expect it to be a really physical series?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

I thought they played Western (Michigan) physical. So, um, I'm sure it will be intense and be physical, a little bit of that playoff atmosphere a little bit there for sure. So, um, they're, they're a team that forechecks hard and, and likes to get after you there. So, uh, um, uh, we're expecting it to be, uh, to be some physical confrontations out there for sure.

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

You've got a, a Slovakian in goal with, uh, Simon, and they have a Slovakian that might be a net for them.

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Mm-hmm.

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

What does that say about the development path for European goaltenders? Or is it just kind of a neat story?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah. No, I think if you look around right now, there's I mean, there's a lot of good goalies everywhere. But there's, um, you know, lots of good Slovakian goalies there, lots of good Czech goalies, Swede goalies there, U.S. goalies, Canadian goalies. So it's, uh, um, yeah, kinda neat to see, obviously, just the, the, the way that you know, what's the rules now, the player pool has expanded, you know, expanded. And, and so now you're seeing, you know, people from all over the world, obviously, uh, playing at the highest levels.

 

Timothy Rowher, UNO Blue Line Club Newsletter:

I'm, uh, doing an article on, on (coach) Jamie (Huffman). And, uh, recruiting. And he mentioned he now goes all over the world.

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah.

 

Timothy Rowher, UNO Blue Line Club Newsletter:

And, uh, including, you know, mentioning Europe and as well as Canada. What kinda impact has he brought, uh, you know, to the program, you know, with his recruiting?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Yeah. He's been tremendous. Again, it's, uh, it's just a completely different landscape now, right? Everything's just yu know, everything's getting kinda flipped over on its head here. It kinda seems to be, year after year. So to have somebody that can, you know, have the ability to, to watch a lot of players, to check in on your current recruits, to keep, you know, expanding your, your view on, on everybody out there — whether it's in Europe, whether it's in the US, whether it's in Canada. So, um, and again, it's a lot to take on. I think, you know… you're …anybody that's ever been in this job, I think the first year is always the most difficult 'cause it's just you're learning so much. And there's so much to learn and so many moving parts and stuff. But he's done a great job navigating that there.

 

And it's been nice to, um he probably would like to be home a little bit more often. He's been on the road a lot. Um, but, you know, (he’s) just doing a tremendous job, uh, to help our program here as we move forward with this new landscape here.

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

Same question for you then to, to end up, uh, who do you see getting gold for men and women in hockey?

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

Man, I think I mean, I think it would be great to see a U.S.-Canada final. I think that'd be pretty special. You know, uh, obviously, really tight game for Canada this morning there. And, uh, I thought that Four Nations (tournament last year) was pretty fun to watch. Um, I think they each got one win in that, in that situation there. So, uh, I think that could be a fun, uh, uh, fun. I know we got a lone Swede on the team, (Marcus) Broberg, whose brother's playing for Team Sweden.

 

So he's, he came in there chanting for Team Sweden today. And, and, uh, obviously, Rollie’s got the USA going too. So it's kinda fun. It's just fun to see. I mean, at the end of the day, you like to see that good hockey going. And, uh, pretty neat to watch best on best.

 

Bridget Brooks, MavPuck.com:

Very diplomatic.

 

Head Coach Mike Gabinet:

That's a smart answer, right? Smart answer. Yeah.