Playoff Series Preview: Propel MG vs Fusion Blizzard

by Anthony Flynn

The Keystone Division Semi-Pro playoffs are set to deliver a thrilling series as the second-seeded Propel MG take on the third-seeded Fusion Blizzard in a best-of-three showdown. The series will begin on February 15, with games scheduled at 12:30 PM and 2:45 PM, and a decisive third game, if necessary, at 5:00 PM. The winner will advance to the Keystone Division Final to face either the Marple SK Labeda Gladiators or the Philadelphia Barons.

Regular Season Recap

The regular season series between Propel MG and the Fusion Blizzard highlighted just how competitive this matchup could be. Propel dominated their first meeting on November 23, cruising to a commanding 6-0 victory. However, the Blizzard showed resilience, winning a tight 4-3 game on October 26, before falling again to Propel 6-3 on October 5. Propel MG enters the series as the higher seed, but the Blizzard have proven they can push them to the limit.

Team Analysis

Propel MG: High-Octane Offense

Propel MG boasts one of the most explosive offenses in the Keystone Division, powered by dynamic forwards like Zach Tarantino, who led the team with 33 points (20 G, 13 A) in just 16 games. Supporting him are Matt Criscuolo (32 points) and Trevor Cear (31 points), giving Propel a trio of players who can take over games. Additionally, Bryce Witman has been incredibly efficient, tallying 27 points in just 11 games, while Matt Morelli adds even more firepower to an already stacked offense.

In goal, Propel relies heavily on Hunter Frattaroli, who appeared in all 20 games this season, posting a 15-5 record with a 3.08 GAA and .769 save percentage. While Frattaroli’s workload is a testament to his durability, a deep playoff series could put his endurance to the test.

Keys to Success: Propel MG’s offense will need to dictate the pace, especially early in games. If Tarantino and Criscuolo can strike early, Propel can force the Blizzard to chase the game, where they may struggle to keep up.

Fusion Blizzard: Depth and Goaltending

The Fusion Blizzard enter the playoffs as a balanced, gritty team with an edge in depth. Cody Zajaczkowski leads the way with 35 points (25 G, 10 A), and PJ Breslow adds another scoring threat with 32 points. The Blizzard’s blue line is also highly involved offensively, with players like Sam Murray, Dan Trunk, and Ethan Clearfield capable of contributing in key moments.

Where the Blizzard truly stand out is in goal. Their tandem of Dylan Sapienza (5-1, .802 SV%) and Zach Orcutt (8-3, .799 SV%) provides them with flexibility and depth that few teams in the division can match. Sapienza, in particular, has been a standout, delivering two shutouts this season and proving capable of stealing games.

Keys to Success: The Blizzard’s ability to rotate two strong goaltenders could be their secret weapon in this series. If Sapienza and Orcutt can keep Propel’s high-powered offense in check, the Blizzard’s balanced scoring could prove enough to grind out close wins.

What to Watch

  1. Goaltending Battle: Propel MG leans entirely on Frattaroli, while the Blizzard have the luxury of rotating two capable goalies. If this series goes to a deciding Game 3, the Blizzard’s fresher legs in net could give them an advantage.

  2. Special Teams: Both teams have potent weapons on the power play, but staying disciplined will be critical. Propel MG’s high-scoring stars could make the Blizzard pay for unnecessary penalties.

  3. Playoff Experience: Propel MG returns to the playoffs after missing out last year due to eligibility issues. Meanwhile, the Blizzard have postseason experience and the confidence that comes from a well-rounded lineup. Which team will handle the pressure better?

Final Thoughts

This series has all the ingredients for a memorable showdown: a battle-tested team in the Fusion Blizzard, and an offensive juggernaut in Propel MG. Propel will aim to overwhelm the Blizzard with their top-tier scoring talent, but if the Blizzard’s goaltenders get hot and their defense holds steady, this series could go the distance.

The Keystone Division has proven to be one of the most competitive in the league, and this matchup is no exception. The margin for error will be razor-thin, and both teams are capable of advancing. Expect hard-fought games with playoff drama at its finest.