ERIE, Pa. (Interstat) — A surging Central Connecticut team visits a struggling Mercyhurst squad in a Northeast Conference men’s basketball matchup Monday at Mercyhurst Athletic Center. The Central Connecticut Blue Devils (10-6) enter on a three-game winning streak, including a 98-90 road victory at Saint Francis (PA) on Saturday. The Mercyhurst Lakers (7-11) look to rebound from a 62-57 overtime home loss to Stonehill that same day. The game features a compelling contrast in standout performers. Central Connecticut is powered by forward Darin Smith, who has scored at least 22 points in three of his last four games. He posted a double-double with 24 points and 12 rebounds in a win at Le Moyne on Jan. 10. Mercyhurst counters with defensive anchor Qadir Martin. The forward is a formidable rim protector, blocking four shots in the overtime loss to Stonehill and recording a remarkable six blocks in a one-point win at Wagner on Jan. 10. Overall, the Blue Devils have found an offensive rhythm, averaging 80.3 points during their current win streak. The Lakers have struggled to score consistently, failing to reach 70 points in four of their last five contests. This begins a key stretch for both teams in the conference schedule. Central Connecticut will host Fairleigh Dickinson on Friday. Mercyhurst travels to face New Haven on Friday. Monday’s tipoff is set for 7 p.m. EST.