BC Hockey Preview of Champions: Bill Arnold, #24

Douglas Jones-US PRESSWIRE

Jerry York knows how to find the best talent for his Boston College hockey program, which he has built up into a perennial national champion. He has also done well in hauling in some of the local stars. From the distant reaches of Needham comes Bill Arnold, junior forward.

Arnold played some high school hockey, but also has plenty of experience on the national and international circuit. First, on his high school days, they were spent at Noble & Greenough in Dedham, where he was a teammate of current Eagle Kevin Hayes. Not surprisingly, he and Hayes led the team in points during Arnold’s senior year, but then he hit the Under-18 national team. While there (2009-10 season), he had some tremendous moments, putting up 51 points in 64 games and, amongst other awards, got a gold medal in Minsk. For the most part, Arnold’s time on the US world juniors’ roster was quite kind to him.

Prior to arriving at Boston College, Arnold was taken in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft by the Calgary Flames. He was a fourth-round pick 108th overall.

He joined the Eagles in 2010, and even though he has only been a part of Boston College hockey for two seasons, he has already had some signature moments. During his freshman year, Arnold ended up with 20 points and two short-handed goals, but it was his sophomore year in which he came alive. Few Boston College fans will forget how Arnold’s goal near the end of the first overtime beat Boston University in the 2012 Beanpot final. He also scored a big goal in the second period of the NCAA tournament second round over Minnesota-Duluth to double BC’s lead. Arnold finished the title season with 36 points and a +16 rating. BC was 21-3 in games last season when Bill Arnold had at least one point.

It’s not a stretch to think that Arnold could continue his breakout in 2012-13. With this being his junior year and him being an NHL prospect, he could be a flight risk with an off-the-charts season. One shouldn’t expect it, but it isn’t completely out of the question. Before asking any questions about that, however, consider what is likely in store for Boston College and Arnold this season: a solid year and continued improvement.