From 2003 (the year the tournament expanded to 16 teams) through 2022, only 8 of 235 first round games featured a team scoring 8 goals or more. So far this year in just 8 games, 4 teams did it, and all from one conference.
NIL isn't talked about much with hockey, but it seems like it's playing a role. I expect its effect mainly with the elite Logan Cooley type recruits.
Parity is a growing issue with NCAA hockey. If I recall, last year there weren't any 1st round upsets in the tourney (other than us -- 9 over 8 seed). I thought that mostly had to due with schools that could afford to go over the scholarship limit and the portal.
B10 athletic depts have a big advantage with TV $$. This year is a sign it may pull away from the NCHC and become the powerhouse hockey conf.
We can keep up with athletic dept funding. Where we'll likely fall behind is NIL.
Closest score of any game and down goes DU
Maybe all 4 of the QF games will be thrillers