“You have a natural tendency to think that way, going into a huge game like this,” Palmer said. “But that’s not the way I want to go in thinking about it.”
When the RedHawks make their second straight Frozen Four appearance against the No. 2 Boston College Eagles in the national semifinals on April 8, Palmer will be trying with all his might not to think about being a hero.
“Every single guy in our lineup has the potential to score the game-winning goal and to make a game-saving play,” he said. “So it’s really going to be a team effort, and I think a team mentality is the only way we can be successful.”
Palmer leads the team with 45 points and six game-winning goals, including the decisive shot against Ferris State on March 20 in a 2-1 victory that propelled Miami to the NCAA tournament’s overall No. 1 seed. He has moved into 12th place in the program’s career scoring list.
But Palmer is less than enthusiastic about the way he has played lately.
The goal against Ferris State is the only point produced in the last five games by the forward from Fridley, Minn., who in February chewed up opposing defenses with four consecutive three-point games.
“I’d like to get back to helping the team out,” Palmer said. “I don’t focus on getting points. Every time I do that I’m very unsuccessful in getting points. I try to focus on sacrificing everything I can for the benefit of the team and winning.”
Palmer said the more he gives himself over to that mentality, the more success he has.
“My mind-set has been a little shaky lately,” he said. “I think I got a little bit hyped up with the environment and the pressure on me.
“This week I’m just focusing on the little things in my game, getting back to attacking with speed, being a tenacious forechecker, a great defender and a guy who takes the puck to the net.”
If Palmer, once he hits the ice against Boston College, seems to be playing with zest, perhaps with a little smile, you’ll know his mind-set is where it’s supposed to be.
“My approach to the game has always been to have fun,” he said. “To enjoy the little things and play fearless, protect your teammates.”
Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2197 or pconrad@coxohio.com.
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