After capturing the program’s first ACHA Division II National Championship last spring, the Lions did not just return hoping to compete. They came back this season determined to prove their championship run was only the beginning. Instead of sitting back, the Lions have only raised the bar.
The Lions closed out their regular season on Feb. 8th with a staggering 29-0-1 record, dominating opponents from September through February, establishing themselves once again as one of the most dangerous and competitive teams in the country. Lindenwood leads their independent conference, outsourcing their competition 196 (goals for) 62 (goals against), leaving them with a +134 goal differential, and ending the season with 87 points.
Game after game, the Lions continued to control the pace with relentless forechecking, scoring, and suffocating the opponent’s defense, turning tight matchups into countless statement wins.
This season has been even more impressive with how the roster has shifted from last season’s championship team. After several core veterans graduated, Lindenwood reloaded, never rebuilt. New contributors have stepped into key roles, with returning players elevating their production to create one of the deepest lineups in the ACHA M2 division.
Offensively, the Lions have seen success from every line. Sophomore forward Nick Jones currently leads the team with 55 points (20 goals, 35 assists) in just 27 games, averaging more than two points per game. Freshman defenseman Brock Hart added an impressive 46 points, while junior Austin Meers (45), sophomore Jack Louko (44), and senior captain Chase McClellan (38) are helping to anchor the attack against opponents, leaving them on their heels all season. In total, 18 of the team’s players have recorded double-digit points, which can be viewed as the Lions’ team-first style of play.
For McClellan, the group’s success comes from preparation and experience.
“We’re looking forward to another fun run at Nationals. We lost a lot of core guys, but brought a ton in. The way our season has gone has been unbelievable, and no one would have expected it to go this well. Regionals is new to us this year and out of town, but we are ready for any challenge down the road. We have worked every day for this, and I believe we are prepared for what will be thrown at us.”
The Lions are heading to the ACHA Central Region Tournament in Hammond, IN Feb. 19 to Feb. 21. They are looking to battle through to earn their spot at nationals.
When asked about looking towards nationals, McClellan stated, “We’re focused on what is currently in front of us, not what is a month away. Once we get there, it’ll be routine. Most of our team are battle-tested veterans and know what it takes to win.”
With a near-perfect record, elite depth, and the confidence that comes from these Lions knowing what has already been done, Lindenwood is not just the defending champions but a team chasing history. After proving they can win it all, the Lions now have their sights set on something tougher. Going back to back.
