Buccigross looking forward to tournament

Broadcasting the NCAA hockey tournament is always something that ESPN's John Buccigross looks forward to.

"I love being a the rink and at a live event," he said. "It's exciting and riveting. Hockey is the most exciting sport in my mind."

Buccigross will call the action on Saturday at 9 pm on ESPNU when Union battles Boston College in the opening round of the East Regional in Providence, Rhode Island. Former NHL head coach Barry Melrose will be the analyst.

Buccigross expects an entertaining few hours.

"I see it as a great game," Buccigross said. "Both teams have excellent skaters and a very good goalie, [Parker Milner for Boston College and Troy Grosenick for Union]. The power play will be the difference."

Both schools have strong power play units. Union ranks third in the country at 23.5% while Boston College is seventh at 22%.

While Buccigross didn't predict a winner, he said whoever wins could well be the eventual national champion.

"Anybody can win [the national championship]," Buccigross said. "Minnesota probably had the best all around team but the best team doesn't always win."