Syracuse vs. Binghamton: Playoff Preview

The stage is set for an exciting first-round playoff matchup between Syracuse (#1) and Binghamton (#4). This game promises to be an uphill battle for Binghamton, who will need to defy the odds to overcome Syracuse's dominant performance all season. Let's dive into what each team brings to the ice as they prepare for their clash on February 21, 2025, at 4:00 PM, at Messa Rink at Achilles Center in Schenectady, New York.

Syracuse:

Syracuse enters the game as the clear favorite, boasting a perfect 13-0-0 record and 28 points in the regular season. Their success has been built on a combination of an explosive offense, stellar goaltending, and solid defensive play.

Leading the offensive charge for Syracuse is Leah Landry, who has amassed 24 points in 13 games, followed closely by Neve Padulo with 23 points in 12 games, and Ivy Dietrich, who has scored 21 points in 13 games. These three players have been the heart of Syracuse’s potent attack and will look to continue their offensive dominance in the playoffs.

In addition to their offensive depth, Syracuse’s goaltending tandem of Emma Lacz and Harper Keenan has been nearly unbeatable. Lacz has posted an outstanding 1.11 GAA and a .912 SV%, allowing just 7 goals on 80 saves. Keenan has been just as reliable, with a 1.29 GAA and a .926 SV%, stopping 121 shots and allowing only 9 goals. With such a strong defense and goaltending core, Syracuse enters the game with the confidence of a team that has been near-perfect all season.

For Syracuse, the formula for victory is simple: keep doing what they’ve done all season. Landry, Padulo, and Dietrich will continue to lead the way, but Syracuse will also rely on their solid defensive play and excellent goaltending to keep Binghamton at bay. 

Binghamton: 

Binghamton, the #4 seed finished the regular season with a 2-7-0 record and only 5 points. However, the team does have a few players who have the potential to make an impact.

Olivia Saxby and Noelle Tolan lead the offense with 5 points each in 9 games, while Nina Herceg adds 4 points in 9 games. Other contributors include Brooklyn Lagios and Ava Field, who have each tallied 3 points in 9 and 8 games, respectively. 

In net, Hannah Gordon has been a steady presence for Binghamton, recording a 3.54 GAA and a .928 SV%. Gordon has faced a high number of shots all season, stopping 362 shots while allowing 26 goals.