The University of Minnesota Duluth men's hockey closed out the 2023-24 season with a 5-2 loss to No. 3/4 University of Denver. Despite a late surge from UMD, DU still managed to sweep the series in two games.

The Bulldogs led in shots through a scoreless first period, but the Pioneers were quick in their response. They scored their first two goals in the first five minutes of the period, including the series' only power play goal. UMD entered the series with the best power play in the National Collegiate Hockey Conference, but were unable to score through eight opportunities. 

DU netted another and UMD skated out for the third period down 3-0, with their season on the line. With 13 minutes left on the clock, Captain Luke Loheit scored the Bulldogs' first goal of the series, spinning through two defenders. 

UMD kept up the pressure and in the final four minutes pulled goaltender Matthew Thiessen for an extra attacker. Thiessen was forced to return for a few brief stints, adding up to 57:32 in net. He ended the night with 25 saves.

Having the extra skater worked initially, with Kyle Bettens tapping in a net-front shot from Blake Biondi. The Bulldogs were within one. It lasted less than a minute. 

DU scored two empty net goals in the final two minutes, securing the series. No. 7 seed UMD was unable to upset the No. 2 seed. With an NCHC quarterfinal exit, the Bulldogs end the 2023-24 season with a 12-20-5 record.