Number of players
lost: 9 – (7 due to graduation, 1 to the NHL (Casey Bailey,
Toronto) and 1 by dismissal due to violation of team rules (Scott
Conway))
Number of incoming
freshmen: 7
Last
year, in just its third season as a division I program, Penn State
looked like it was a program on the verge of great things. Had they
been able to keep their leading scorer, Casey Bailey, around for
another season and had leading freshman scorer, Scott Conway, not
violated team rules, the Nittany Lions could have been considered a
top two finisher in the Big Ten this season. But those losses, plus
the graduation of dishmaster Taylor Holstrom puts a major dent in the
offense. The graduation of Partrick Koudys and Nate Jensen from the
defensive core are considerable losses as well.
I
don't see any of Penn State's freshmen forwards being able to make up
for the losses, but I do see them having a potential role regarding
the depth of the team as fourth liners. The defensemen have some
quality talent, and I wouldn't be surprised if one or more of them
play a primary role this season.
So
let's check out Penn State's incoming freshmen for the 2015-16
campaign.