ROSEMONT, Ill. – Sophomore forward Denis Smirnov was named the Big Ten Conference Second Star of the Week after his performance in a weekend split at No. 7 Minnesota the conference office announced earlier Tuesday morning.
Smirnov is currently riding a three-game goal streak as he scored in each game this past weekend including the game-winning goal in Penn State’s 3-1 victory on Friday night marking just the second victory in program history at 3M Arena at Mariucci. Smirnov added a lone assist on Friday as well for a three-point week.
The sophomore leads the team with three goals and three assists for six points. His three goals and six points rank tied for first and second in the conference, respectively. Smirnov’s 53 career points are just three shy of tying Curtis Loik for tenth in program history in just 43 games played.
This marks the first weekly accolade of the season for Smirnov after being recognized four times last season including a pair of First Star nods.