Coaches aren't sold on Wisconsin men's hockey staying near top of Big Ten

Badgers sitting in fifth place, six points behind No. 1 Michigan

For the first time in four years, the Wisconsin Badgers are not ranked among the top 10 men's hockey teams in the country. After starting the season with a 4-0 record, the Badgers have gone 2-7-1 in their last 10 games and are now sitting in fifth place in the Big Ten standings, six points behind No. 1 Michigan.

The Badgers' struggles have been well-documented. They have been outscored 35-20 in their last 10 games and have allowed at least four goals in eight of those contests. Their power play has been anemic, converting just 12.5% of their opportunities, and their penalty kill has been equally poor, allowing 10 goals in 28 chances.

The Badgers' struggles have led some to question whether they can stay near the top of the Big Ten standings. The Wolverines are the clear favorite to win the conference title, and the Badgers will need to make a significant improvement in their play if they want to challenge for a top-four finish.

Concerns about goaltending, defense, and offense

There are several areas where the Badgers need to improve if they want to turn their season around. One of the biggest concerns is their goaltending. Junior goaltender Jared Moe has been inconsistent this season, posting a 3.02 goals-against average and a .893 save percentage.

The Badgers' defense has also been a problem. They have allowed 3.50 goals per game this season, which is 11th in the Big Ten. The Badgers have been particularly vulnerable to giving up goals in the slot, and they have also struggled to clear the puck out of their own zone.

The Badgers' offense has also been inconsistent. They have scored just 2.80 goals per game this season, which is ninth in the Big Ten. The Badgers have been particularly ineffective on the power play, and they have also struggled to generate scoring chances at even strength.

Schedule could help or hurt Badgers

The Badgers' schedule could help or hurt them down the stretch. They have a relatively easy schedule remaining, with just two games against ranked opponents. However, they also have a tough road trip to Michigan and Michigan State in February.

If the Badgers can play well in their remaining games, they could still make a run at a top-four finish in the Big Ten. However, they will need to make significant improvements in their goaltending, defense, and offense if they want to be a contender.