Penn State Men's Hockey Faces Injuries Ahead of Ohio State Series

Nittany Lions look to bounce back from winless stretch despite missing key players

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The Penn State men's hockey team enters a series against Ohio State without its top three centers and with five players out for the rest of the regular season due to injuries. Despite the roster challenges, the team is focused on maintaining its aggressive, fast-paced style of play that has led to success this season. Coach Guy Gadowsky is hopeful that some injured players may return for the postseason, but the team must find a way to win this weekend against Ohio State.

Why it matters

Penn State was expected to make a strong push for the Frozen Four this season after a surprise run last year, but the rash of injuries has made that goal much more difficult. The team's ability to adapt and overcome these obstacles will be crucial as they try to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament.

The details

Penn State enters the series against Ohio State without its top three centers, including junior team captain Dane Dowiak, who is out for the rest of the season. The Nittany Lions have had to shuffle their lines, moving defensemen to forward positions, in order to field a competitive team. Coach Guy Gadowsky is determined to maintain Penn State's aggressive, up-tempo style of play despite the roster challenges.

  • Penn State's last win was 27 days ago.
  • Coach Guy Gadowsky needs one more victory to reach 250 wins at Penn State.

The players

Dane Dowiak

Junior team captain and top line center who is out for the rest of the season.

Luke Misa

Freshman forward who has moved to center the team's top line.

Gavin McKenna

Freshman forward and one of the team's top four active points producers.

Aiden Fink

Junior forward who missed seven games earlier this season due to injury.

Matt DiMarsico

Forward who has remained consistently productive with 34 points.

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What they’re saying

“What we learned is we shouldn't be afraid of it, just move forward.”

— Guy Gadowsky, Head Coach (centredaily.com)

“You don't ever want to play differently. A lot of our successes have come from that attitude and that mentality, and I don't want to change it. You've got to go play.”

— Guy Gadowsky, Head Coach (centredaily.com)

“It's pretty easy to play with them because they're always finding you in open space on the ice. Guys are just going to have to step up. It's already worked for us.”

— Luke Misa, Freshman Forward (centredaily.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.