Canisius got off to a good start, winning games against three non-conference opponents and tying Clarkson, who finished the season in the top-20.
While they led the Atlantic Hockey standings early, the team could only complete two weekend sweeps all season.
The Golden Griffins were limited to less than 3 goals in 18 games during the season with their leading goal-scorer, Max Kouznetsov, hitting just 12 for the year.
In spite of their occasional offensive struggles, Canisius benefitted from Atlantic Hockey being a mediocre conference and finished in second place.
The Golden Griffins opened their postseason run with a home date against Mercyhurst but their offense failed them at the worst time.