Where it all begins in the Class 2A and 1A boys hockey state tournament

Here’s a look at the quarterfinal matchups on Wednesday and Thursday at Xcel Energy Center. Also, here’s 15 players to watch at the boys hockey state tournament.

Thursday

[7] Andover (15-13) vs. [2] Stillwater (22-6), 11 a.m.

Why Andover could win: The Huskies started the season 0-9 before finishing on a 13-3 tear. Camden Langfeld leads the Huskies with 31 points, including 19 assists. Andover, the 2022 champion, made their way through Section 7 by knocking off Grand Rapids and Rock Ridge.

Why Stillwater could win: “We’re not done,” was the prevailing sentiment at the Section 4 final. Stillwater is averaging more than five goals per game. Brody Dustin leads the squad with 52 points, including 28 goals.

[6] Shakopee (22-5-1) vs. [3] St. Thomas Academy (23-5), 1 p.m.

Why Shakopee could win: Led by Cooper Simpson (77 points), the Sabers can score with anyone. They’ve outscored opponents 146-52 this season, including a 46-17 goal advantage in the first period.

8] Lakeville South (18-9) vs. [1] Moorhead (25-2-1), 6 p.m.

Why Lakeville South could win: The Cougars are hardened by a good schedule. Carter Ernst has 25 goals and Jackson Ernst has 23 goals for the Cougars, who were the state runner-up to Eden Prairie in 2021.

Why Moorhead could win: Bantam AA state champions have the look of destiny. The champion of Section 8, Moorhead has played in the past five state tournaments and in 21 overall. They have lost in the championship game eight times. The Spuds are led by Mason Kraft, son of former Gophers player Ryan Kraft, with 37 goals and 84 points.

[5] Edina (20-6-2) vs. [4] Rogers (23-3-2), 8 p.m.

Why Edina could win: Defending state champs wish to stay above the fray. The Hornets are also loaded with talent, with four players selected to the Star Tribune’s All-Minnesota boys hockey team.

Wednesday

[7] Mahtomedi (11-15-2) vs. [2] St. Cloud Cathedral (18-8-2), 11 a.m.

Why Mahtomedi could win: Take Mahtomedi’s losing record with a grain of salt. Tough schedule makes the Zephyrs a tough out in the playoffs.

Why St. Cloud Cathedral could win: The defending champions still have something to prove. Hermantown was the last team to repeat in 1A (2016 and 2017).

[6] Orono (15-10-3) vs. [3] Northfield (22-4-2), 1 p.m.

Why Northfield could win: A history of success is the only thing the Raiders lack. Entering the state tournament, though, Northfield has outscored opponents 35-0 in its past five victories.

[8] Luverne (22-4-2) vs. [1] Hibbing/Chisholm (19-9), 6 p.m.

Why Luverne could win: The Cardinals are due, having won only once and never in the winner’s bracket quarterfinals.

Why Hibbing/Chisholm could win: Earning the No. 1 seed and coming from the north means something this time of year.

[5] Northern Lakes (19-8-1) vs. [4] East Grand Forks (13-13-2), 8 p.m.