JAMES
UNGER
Bowling Green
So. | F | Garfield Heights, Ohio
Unger
scored three game-winning goals for Bowling Green as a
freshman.
Key
Statistics: Scored 13 points on six goals and seven
assists in 37 games, and led the Falcons with three game-winning
goals and his three power play goals tied for third on the
team.
What
He Does: Scoff at the notion that a freshman who
barely reached double digits in points could be a team’s
most consistent offensive player, but Bowling Green coach
Scott Paluch says Unger was just that last season. Statistics
prove Paluch’s point to a certain degree – only
Kevin Bieksa recorded more shots on goal than Unger. What
makes him so dangerous is his knack for creating chances by
winning one-on-one battles, maintaining possession of the
puck and getting scoring opportunities in tight quarters.
The
Bigger Picture: Paluch paid Unger the ultimate compliment,
calling him “an ugly hockey player” – he
may not have the prettiest skating stride, but he consistently
gets to loose pucks and makes things happen from there. In
order for the young Falcons to climb higher in the CCHA, Unger
needs to turn opportunities into goals either for himself
or for his teammates and carry over the confidence he gained
last season.
Bowling
Green coach Scott Paluch on Unger: "He’s
tailor made for this conference. He’s good in the danger
area, in traffic and strong in front of the net. He’ll
battle, but he’ll be creative in that battle…and
he’s fearless behind the net and along the wall."
