Michigan duo of Motte, Connor garner monthly HCA honors

Michigan’s Tyler Motte leads the country with 22 goals this season (photo: Michael Dubicki).

The Hockey Commissioners’ Association announced this week that Michigan junior forward Tyler Motte and Wolverines freshman Kyle Connor have been chosen the HCA’s Player and Rookie of the Month, respectively, for January.

Ironically, Motte and Connor are also linemates for the Wolverines this season.

Motte scored in every game last month as the Wolverines went 5-0-1. The Chicago Blackhawks prospect recorded 10 goals and 18 points in just six games, averaging three points per game. Motte currently has an NCAA-best 22 goals among his 35 points.

Connor, a Winnipeg Jets draft pick, has earned the HCA rookie award for the second consecutive month after tallying eight goals and nine assists for 17 points in six games. He leads the country with 42 points overall on 20 goals and 22 assists.