The Big 9 Conference title race is also coming down to the wire, with Owatonna trailing Mankato by a win entering this week. However, the Tornadoes have played two fewer league games entering the week.
The Huskies (5-2, 5-1) should feel confident coming into the matchup, considering they already defeated the Tornadoes 10-4 on April 30. Skyler Eaton notched three goals in that game and has led Owatonna's offense all season, posting 22 goals and six assists. If Eaton can have another good performance against Mankato, the Huskies will have a real shot at both the win and at overtaking pole position for the Big 9 Conference title.
The Tornadoes (7-3, 6-2) will be looking to unlock Hanna Helms and Shelby Lund in this rematch as they hope to reverse the April 30 result. Helms and Lund had only a goal apiece in the loss, but with 29 and 25 respective goals this season, the seniors certainly have the talent to get the offense rolling against Owatonna.