THE SCORE

ELSTON

Michigan’s young guns make Berenson smile

There’s a youth movement at the University of Michigan. After graduating its dominant senior class, the Wolverines (3-2-0 overall, 0-1-0 in the conference) are using 10 freshmen this season. “Overall they’re playing pretty well,” said coach Red Berenson. “They have to play a sizeable role on our team and that’s both good and bad.” The most surprising freshman was walk-on defenseman David Huntzicker. The 6-foot-3, 192-pounder was unknown to Berenson, despite being from Ann. Arbor. Huntzicker played junior hockey for the suburban-Detroit based Compuware Ambassadors of the North American Junior League. “He has played really well for us.” Berenson said. “We didn’t know what to expect when he came here.” A freshman defenseman who was playing up to expectation was Mike Van Ryn. He had a goal and seven points in the Wolverines’ first five…

Peca finally signs new pact

Four weeks into the season, the Buffalo Sabres finally had their roster in place. Michael Peca came in from the cold pool of unsigned Group II free agents, signing a three-year deal worth about $2.7 million in base pay for the next two years. There’s also an option for a third year-to be picked up by the club-worth about $1.6 million. “It’s a good feeling to be back,” Peca said. “I wanted to be part of the team, feel what they are feeling. I always felt like I was part of the team, but now it will be good to be a part of it again.” Peca is expected to be a big part of the team. The reigning Seike Trophy winner as the league’s best defensive forward was an important part of…