Minnesota opens its longest-ever homestand at 3M Arena at Mariucci with a sold-out, two-game rivalry series against No. 3 North Dakota on Oct. 22-23. The Gophers aim to build on captain Brodie Ziemer’s two-goal performance against Minnesota Duluth, while the undefeated Fighting Hawks arrive after two shutout wins.

By the Numbers
  • North Dakota is 4-0-0; Minnesota is 2-1-1.
  • The Gophers’ power play is 2-for-7 (26.5%); North Dakota’s is 6-for-16 (37.5%).
  • Minnesota leads the all-time series 152-138-16.
  • The homestand spans 9 games, through Nov. 27.
Yes, But

Minnesota has home-ice advantage and a strong historical record against North Dakota at Mariucci, but the Fighting Hawks are unbeaten and have not allowed a goal in their last two games.

State of Play
  • Thursday’s opener starts at 7 p.m. and airs on FOX9; Friday’s game starts at 6 p.m. on FOX9+.
  • Friday’s Homecoming Parade will close University Avenue from about 6-8 p.m., affecting access to the arena.
  • Friday men’s hockey ticket holders can attend the women’s game against Lindenwood for free, starting at 3 p.m.
What’s Next

The series launches Minnesota’s nine-game home stretch, which continues through Nov. 27 before the Gophers play two road series to close out 2026.

Bottom Line

Minnesota gets a sold-out home opener and a chance to turn a historic homestand into momentum—but it faces one of the nation’s hottest teams right away. Fans should plan around Friday’s parade traffic and updated arena entry rules.