Gophers drop opener at Michigan Tech Saturday

Minnesota’s 2026-27 season began with a tough road loss Saturday night as the No. 14 Golden Gophers fell 3-2 to No. 19 Michigan Tech at John MacInnes Student Ice Arena.

The season opener was delayed nearly 24 hours because of poor ice conditions, but once play began, Minnesota was unable to overcome a late Michigan Tech goal that broke a third-period tie.

The Huskies scored first late in the opening period to take a 1-0 lead, but the Gophers answered quickly in the second. Tate Pritchard tied the game just 1:25 into the period, racing in on a breakaway and finding the back of the net.

Michigan Tech regained the lead midway through the second period before Minnesota responded again. Beckett Hendrickson scored after a determined effort behind the net, evening the score at 2-2 with more than 11 minutes remaining in the frame.

Goaltender Luca Di Pasquo made several key saves throughout the night to keep Min...