The NAPHL playoffs begin Friday, February 18th in Michigan for the 13th season. Check out our scout’s previews of the U18, U16 and U15 levels.
U18
The Contenders
Northstar Christian Academy
25-2-0-1
Their record speaks for itself, but what is most impressive about this team is their ability to play as a complete unit. Offensively, they get scoring from multiple lines but Minnesota State Commit Reese Laubach is the game breaker on this roster, accumulating 46 points this year. On the back end they have the ability to shut down any offensive unit they see as the unit is a good combination of size and speed.
Philadelphia Little Flyers
13-3-0-0
Coach Dave Doorman's bunch has been a model of consistency in the NAPHL this season as they take a very professional approach to their game. They are not overly reliant on any one player to carry the load, as they are extremely deep both offensively and defensively. If you are looking for one player to stand out, do not be shocked if forward Hunter Engelman scores a timely goal or two for his team.
Northwest Stars
26-2-0-0
The Stars can absolutely fly offensively. With 128 goals for on the season, their high octane offense is hard to contain. The main question mark surrounding this team is if they can step up when the competition is gets stiff. The 8-1 loss to Esmark is not only head scratching but concerning for the Stars.
Teams Who Could Surprise
Esmark Stars
18-8-0-0
This Esmark group does not have as much hype as Esmark teams in the past but they have proven they are extremely dangerous heading into a playoff weekend. They have been extremely inconsistent all year in the NAPHL but they have shown the ability to beat the top of the league on any given night. Esmark can get on a run and no one should be shocked
Reapers
18-7-2-1
They have struggled to step up in class and beat the upper tier squads this season but they are group that plays everyone tight. Their schedule was arguably the hardest in the NAPHL regular season which could bode well for this team. If they get momentum rolling on their side....FYI they are undefeated in February to this point.
Maine Nordiques
8-8-0-0
The Nord's have looked disengaged at times and have had several roster changes throughout the season. Questions around their coach have been rumored and may be a distraction heading into the weekend. But pound for pound, this squad is at the top of the spectrum in terms of talent.
The Sleeper
New Jersey Titans
9-7-0-0
Good things are coming out of New Jersey, with the NAHL franchise first in the NAHL and the U18 team committing players to Boston College. Coach George Haviland's group is angry, mean and has the skill to compete at the highest level. With steady goaltending and the ability to grind out wins they are built for the playoffs.
U16
The Contenders
Carshield
23-4-1-0
For the most part, they have handled their business with the toughest schedule in the NAPHL. Their lineup is a tough match up with their size and skill. With the depth in their line up, combined with the goaltending they have received from Jack Soloman and Branson Appelman, there is no question Carshield is a team to beat.
Northstar Christian Academy
23-2-1-2
Arguably the most skilled team in the NAPHL, the Knights are poised for a big playoff run. Despite being one of their younger teams they are scary talented and bring a lot of scouts to the building. 06' Forward Lincoln Hjelm has had a lot of USHL attention on him with 27pts this season.
Teams Who Could Surprise
Esmark Stars
18-3-1-1
With big time wins on their resume and close losses, do not be shocked if Esmark is playing on the final day. With a solid defensive core, they can stay in every game. What hurts this team the most is the lack of scoring in the bottom 6. If they get some secondary scoring no reason why they are not champions.
The Sleeper
Ontario Jr. Reign
20-5-1-2
The west coast team has been overlooked most of the season and that is why they are in this bracket. But it's hard to ignore their wins over the Reapers, Biggby and Indy. With those wins combined with the tight games with Northstar, you have a team that can sneak its way into the final day.
U15
Contenders
Reapers Hockey Club
24-3-0-1
Dominating, the Reapers have been an absolute force in the U15 division. They play a structured game that is extremely difficult to defeat. Their forward group is extremely talented lead by Owen O'Rear and Christopher Vari. On the back end, Marty McAuley provides the offense and Evan Simos provides a calming presence as a solid support D. They are the top team unless proven otherwise.
Teams Who Could Surprise
Carshield
14-6-1-1
Teddy Richardson has been the talk of the town with his electric speed and scoring touch. But Carshield is much more than Teddy Richardson, they are deep on both the forward group and defensive group. If this team shows up to the fullest of their ability, they are a nightmare to play against. The question is, will they be consistent?
Biggby
11-8-2-0
Biggby is not loaded with high end talent but they work well together as a unit. Their overall team size and compete can wear on their opponents. This bodes well in 15u hockey. Dark horse to win the NAPHL playoff.
Sleeper
New Jersey Titans
3-5-0-0
The Titans NAHL Director of Scouting Gary Biggs' group has had a few shining moments at the two showcases. They are a group that works hard and is well structured behind solid goaltending. Defensemen Conor Gagnon is a highly touted OHL prospect and he is averaging a 1/2 ppg. This group is sneaky good.