Under the Radar – Defensemen of Section 5AA

One of the best parts of high school hockey are the yearly surprises. From upsets to dramatic performances, there are no shortages of moments a given season can provide. Yet one of the better surprises each year is seeing under the radar players develop and begin to make a name for themselves.

This season is no different. Especially given how little live action fans and scouts saw last year due to the pandemic. Which is why this season is one to follow even closer than usual.

In this series, we will be looking at under the radar players in each section as we ramp up towards the 2021-22 season!

1. Miken Miller Miken Miller 5'11" | Defense Rogers | 2022 State MN | Rogers | 5’11 Defenseman | #11 Class of 2022

While Miller may not be under the radar in our rankings, he may not a household name. At least not yet. Although that may be due to Rogers’ relatively lackluster history as a program. That should not hold Miller back this season. In only 20 games last year he scored 9 G, 28 A, with 10 assists coming on the power play. Throw in a registered +/- 24 and he is a solid blue-liner who is going to not only provide some offensive juice, but clean and solid play on the back-end.

2. Ben Wackman | Spring Lake Park | 6’1 Defenseman | Class of 2022

Heading into his third season as a fixture along the blue line, Wackman has the opportunity to shine and turn some heads this season. A member of both the penalty kill and power play, Wackman registered five points on the power play. Now a seasoned veteran, his presence should help increase both the teams power play (21.9%) and penalty kill (75%).

3. Howie Moore | Totino-Grace | 6’0 Defenseman | Class of 2022

The enigma of this group, Moore brings a level of versatile and steady play that Totino could bank on. While he only registered 15 points (2 G/13 A), two were short handed assists and he only picked up four penalty minutes. The fewest amongst qualified defensemen on the team.