University of Connecticut Athletics
University of Connecticut
20-12-5
Merrimack College
21-15-2
Huskies Fall in Championship Game
3/21/2026 9:30:00 PM | Men's Ice Hockey
BOSTON, Mass. – The UConn men's hockey team fell in the Hockey East Championship game to Merrimack College by a final of 2-1. The Huskies tied the game at one in the second period, but a goal in the first 30 seconds of the third period by the Warriors proved to be the game winner.
The first period was a back-and-forth battle with both teams creating threatening chances on offense. Merrimack jumped the Huskies early, but Tyler Muszelik was strong in net keeping the Warriors scoreless. After weathering the early storm by Merrimack, the Huskies had multiple chances of their own but were turned away by Max Lundgren. Merrimack had the best opportunity of the first period as back-to-back penalties by the Huskies had the Warriors playing 5 on 3 but the UConn penalty kill was strong keeping the game scoreless entering the break.
In the second period, Merrimack jumped out to an early 1-0 lead after putting home the rebound attempt following a Muszelik save. The two teams continued to battle, and the Huskies were eventually able to break through as Ethan Whitcomb collected a rebound and pushed it into the back of the net for the equalizer. Following the goal, UConn continued to pressure but were unable to find another goal as they entered the period break tied at one.
In the third period, Merrimack came out and instantly jumped the Huskies scoring a goal just 30 seconds into the start of the period. With the one goal lead, Merrimack's defense shined and shut down the Huskies offense. UConn pulled their goaltender late in the period but were unable to find the back of the net as Merrimack won the game by a final of 2-1.
UConn will await results of the Big Ten Championship game. If Michigan wins, the Huskies will make the NCAA tournament. If Ohio State wins, the Huskies season is done.
