The Cloquet High School hockey team has emerged as a powerhouse in Class A, boasting an impressive 18-4 record with the Section 7A playoffs right around the corner. With a high-powered offense and stingy defense, the Lumberjacks are primed for a deep postseason run, seeking their first tournament since 2008.
Offensively, the Lumberjacks have been explosive, averaging 4.41 goals per game, while their defense has been equally formidable, allowing just 2.09 goals per game. A big part of that defensive success has been Karson Young, an underrated but elite defenseman who brings grit and tenacity to win puck battles and control space on the ice.
A key driver of Cloquet’s attack has been the dominance of their top line of Grady Knutson (#13), Niko Gentilini (#14), and Bobby Thornton (#15), which has established itself as one of the best units in the state. Knutson, the team’s leading goal scorer, has netted 28 this season, ranking 8th among all Minnesota high school players. The line as a whole has contributed over 60% of the team’s goals this season.
Anchoring the team in net is junior Jacob Iallonardo, who has been rock solid between the pipes with a 1.79 goals-against average (GAA) and a .928 save percentage (SV%). His steady presence has given Cloquet the confidence to push forward offensively while remaining defensively sound. Jamis Halverson has answered the call in nets as well, putting up a 7-1 record with 2.51 GAA.
With their balanced attack, strong defensive core, and great goaltending, Cloquet is a serious threat in Section 7A and could be poised for a deep run at Minnesota’s Class A State Tournament. As the Sections approach, all eyes will be on the Lumberjacks to see if they can turn their stellar regular season into championship glory.