Top NHL Prospects in the Men’s NCAA Hockey Tournament

As March ends, the college hockey season nears its conclusion, and the NCAA tournament is set to begin on Thursday on ESPN networks. The Frozen Four will be held in the second week of April, with the national championship game scheduled for April 12.

Many players participating in this tournament are expected to join NHL teams in the coming weeks or years. This year`s tournament boasts a wealth of talent, promising exciting hockey and memorable moments.

Here are some notable NHL prospects to keep an eye on over the next couple of weeks, categorized by their teams.

These prospects include highly-regarded draft picks from previous years, potential lottery picks in the upcoming draft, and late-bloomers who have captured the attention of scouts. They will all be aiming to make a significant impact in the tournament and in their future professional careers.

Every NCAA tournament game will be available on ESPN+. Catch the action here.

Boston College Eagles

Ryan Leonard, James Hagens, Gabe Perreault and Jacob Fowler

Boston College is talent-rich and holds the top spot in college hockey rankings. Their offense is powered by three first-round draft picks. Leonard, anticipated to sign with the Washington Capitals after the college season, was among the top scorers in Hockey East in points per game. He`s a Hobey Baker finalist and was named Hockey East Player of the Year. This highly skilled forward is known for his competitive drive, combining physicality, skill, and leadership qualities. He is expected to make a significant impact in this tournament with crucial goals and game-changing plays.

Perreault is projected to sign with the New York Rangers after the season, a team that could benefit from his offensive abilities. Perreault is a well-rounded player, having developed strong playmaking skills at Boston College. He has the ability to score in tight spaces, making him a game-changer. He demonstrated this at the World Juniors and has been a consistent offensive force for the Eagles, sharing the Hockey East lead in points per game with Leonard and Cole O`Hara (UMass).

Perreault`s improved playmaking enhances the effectiveness of Leonard and Hagens, keeping opposing defenders on edge. For Boston College to win the tournament, and they are favored to do so, Perreault will need to be instrumental in breaking down defenses and scoring goals.

The third member of this line is James Hagens, a potential lottery pick in the 2025 draft. Ranked second in ESPN`s draft rankings, this freshman is a contender for Rookie of the Year after achieving a point-per-game season for the top-ranked team nationally. Hagens is a versatile player, capable of both offensive and defensive roles. He protects the puck effectively and uses his agility to create space. While he sometimes defers to his linemates, a dominant performance showcasing his playmaking skills could solidify his position as the top forward in this year’s NHL draft class.

In addition to their strong offense, the Eagles boast one of the NCAA`s top goalies for two seasons running. Fowler (Montreal Canadiens) is a Mike Richter Award nominee for the second consecutive year, with a .940 save percentage, 1.64 goals-against average, and an NCAA-leading seven shutouts. He is the cornerstone of the Eagles and has consistently performed under pressure. Boston College is expected to make a deep run in the Frozen Four, and Fowler will be crucial to their success, especially in the championship game.

Denver University Pioneers

Zeev Buium, Jack Devine and Carter King

Buium (Minnesota Wild) has made a significant impact in the NCAA and is looking to add to his accolades. A Hobey Baker finalist, the dynamic defenseman has 43 points in 38 games this season and played key roles for Denver and the U.S. World Junior team. Buium already has an NCAA title and aims for a second, along with his two World Junior gold medals.

Buium dictates the game`s tempo from the defensive end and tilts the ice in Denver`s favor, playing substantial minutes each game. His transition play is exceptional both offensively and defensively, and his skating allows him to maneuver along the blue line to find open lanes. Denver will need him at his best to reach the Frozen Four.

Jack Devine (Florida Panthers) topped the nation in scoring this season with 56 points in 41 games and is Denver’s other Hobey Baker finalist. He drives the Pioneers’ offense, aggressively moving to the center of the ice and creating high-scoring opportunities. Devine will be a challenge for any defender or goalie near the net. His quick hands and willingness to play in high-traffic areas lead to prime scoring chances. He excels at finding tight passing lanes to create opportunities for teammates and is a well-rounded offensive player with strong play-driving abilities.

King, a top NCAA free agent, will attract significant scout attention during this tournament. The Pioneers’ captain has been consistently impactful all season, achieving a 20-goal/40-point season. The 23-year-old brings a gritty physicality that disrupts opponents both on the forecheck and around the net. He is often the hardest-working player on the ice and a crucial element in Denver’s offensive strategy, which focuses on activation and fluid movement in the offensive zone.

King has potential for a fourth-line role in the NHL today, and if he demonstrates his comprehensive game, many teams will be interested in signing him.

Maine Black Bears

Albin Boija

Boija, from Sweden, is a finalist for the Mike Richter Award after a season with a .930 save percentage, 1.75 goals-against average, and four shutouts. He led Maine to the Hockey East title and was named tournament MVP.

He may return to school next season, but a strong NCAA tournament performance could attract NHL teams eager to sign him. The 6-foot-1 goalie is technically sound and makes crucial saves at critical moments. Boija has the potential to become a platoon goalie in the NHL or a high-quality backup. The Black Bears face host Penn State in the first round, and despite being favored, Boija will need to be solid for his team to win on the road.

Penn State Nittany Lions

Aiden Fink

The Nashville Predators have a promising player in Fink, a sophomore and Hobey Baker finalist who ranked third in NCAA scoring. He is an exceptional play driver with quality puck control, attacks high-danger areas, and is undoubtedly the offensive leader for the Nittany Lions.

He manages the puck well with smart decisions and protection, creating scoring opportunities both on rushes and in the offensive zone. His transition play is notable on both sides of the puck, a skill transferable to the professional level. If Penn State is to defeat the Black Bears, Fink will play a significant role.

Connecticut Huskies

Joey Muldowney and Jake Richard

Muldowney (San Jose Sharks) had a standout season for the Huskies and was named to the Hockey East All-Tournament Team. He equaled the Husky record for hat tricks in a season (three) and was second in NCAA goal scoring, behind Ryan Leonard. The sophomore enters the NCAA tournament in top form, with seven goals in his last four games, often being the Huskies` best player.

This sixth-round pick significantly improved his production this season with a larger role and improved shot release. He is a fast skater with speed to spare and uses quick moves to bypass defenders, opening passing lanes in dangerous areas. If any Husky embodies determination, it’s Muldowney, evidenced by his team-leading six game-winning goals this season.

Richard (Buffalo Sabres) had an impressive season with 42 points in 35 games as a 20-year-old. His vision and ability to make precise passes from anywhere on the ice are excellent. He finds teammates through traffic at both short and long ranges, hitting them accurately. Richard heads into the NCAA tournament with 13 points in his last six games, facilitating the Huskies` offense with his playmaking. If the Huskies need a big play, expect it to come from Muldowney or Richard.

Michigan State Spartans

Trey Augustine, Isaac Howard and Karson Dorwart

Howard (Tampa Bay Lightning) led the NCAA with 1.42 points per game and was third with 26 goals. This first-round draft pick took a less common path, choosing to play a third college season. This decision paid off as Howard was named Big Ten Player of the Year and scored the winning goal in the Big Ten tournament championship.

The synergy between Howard and Charlie Stramel (Wild) has been key to Michigan State’s season, leading the Spartans to consecutive Big Ten titles. Howard is an elite scorer, and if Stramel continues to find him in open space, the Spartans have a strong chance to reach the Frozen Four.

Augustine (Detroit Red Wings) is a Mike Richter Award nominee and was named Big Ten Goaltender of the Year. With a .927 save percentage, 2.02 goals-against average, and three shutouts, Augustine led Michigan State to its second straight conference title and the second overall seed in the NCAA tournament. Augustine is technically sound and is widely considered Detroit’s future in goal. This Michigan native makes crucial saves, shows great flexibility, and anticipates plays effectively. A championship matchup between Augustine and Fowler is possible, and Augustine is certainly capable of holding his own.

Dorwart is gaining attention as a free agent and will have ample opportunity to showcase his skills over the next two weeks. He has consistently contributed offensively for the Spartans over three seasons. His status as a 6-foot-1 center with a fast-paced game and good playmaking ability has attracted NHL teams.

While Dorwart might not be a top offensive producer in the NHL, his playmaking and awareness are valuable and could make him an effective transition checker. The Spartans need scoring from their secondary lines to succeed in the tournament, and Dorwart can play a key role and enhance his free agent prospects.

Cornell Big Red

Ondrej Psenicka and Dalton Bancroft

Cornell has two players that scouts will be watching closely, both are free agents drawing significant interest.

Psenicka stands out due to his 6-foot-6 stature. The 24-year-old Czech player uses his size effectively, leaning on defenders, forcing his way to the middle, and winning battles. While not flashy offensively, he is strategically sound, makes quality defensive plays, and is disruptive in front of the net. NHL teams value big, reliable players who do the tough work, making Psenicka a likely candidate for a bottom-six NHL role in the near future.

Bancroft is an intriguing player to watch in the tournament. At times, he appears dominant, easily outmaneuvering defenders, creating chances, and surprising goalies with an NHL-caliber shot. However, questions remain about his consistency of pace needed for professional scoring. If scoring isn`t his primary NHL role, he could still be a valuable bottom-six, defensive winger who occasionally contributes offensively.

Boston University Terriers

Quinn Hutson, Cole Hutson and Cole Eiserman

The Hutson brothers are having a remarkable season, including Lane`s rookie year in Montreal and Quinn and Cole’s impressive seasons at BU.

Cole (Capitals) is a dynamic offensive defenseman who scored 40 points in 35 games as a freshman. His agility and poise often mislead opponents, creating open space and making him a threat in the offensive zone. Cole was arguably the best defenseman in the NCAA this season and should be a key player for BU in the tournament.

Quinn, the eldest Hutson brother and the only forward, led BU in scoring this season with 47 points in 34 games. A natural goal scorer, Quinn shows great chemistry with his brother and constantly moves to find optimal scoring positions. He plays a quick, give-and-go style, leveraging short possessions and teamwork, showcasing his anticipation and game sense. Quinn has significant NHL potential as a free agent. A strong tournament performance with goals could capture the attention of NHL managers and scouts.

Eiserman, a New York Islanders prospect, has developed well this season, scoring 21 goals in 35 games and leading the nation with 10 power-play goals. Eiserman`s shot has long been his standout skill, and this is expected to continue in the tournament. While his game may lack overall balance, his goal-scoring ability is a game-changer, as seen at the World Juniors. Boston University will need Eiserman to score early and often to have a chance at the Frozen Four.

Ohio State Buckeyes

Gunnarwolfe Fontaine and Riley Thompson

Fontaine (Predators) achieved his first point-per-game season in his fifth NCAA year, his first with Ohio State after four at Northeastern. He set career highs in goals and assists, and Nashville retains his signing rights until he can become a free agent in August.

Fontaine led the Buckeyes in scoring during a season where they reached the Big 10 championship game, losing in double overtime to Michigan State. He enters the tournament with three goals from 11 shots in his last two games. He has consistently shot well for the Buckeyes, second on the team with 105 shots in 39 games. The 24-year-old’s smaller size is a disadvantage in today`s NHL, but his work ethic, speed, and shooting ability interest scouts for organizational depth, even if he doesn’t sign with Nashville.

Thompson, a free agent, is attracting considerable attention, largely due to his 6-foot-4 frame. The 22-year-old forward scored 17 goals and 33 points in 39 games after transferring from the University of Alaska-Anchorage. While he may lack flashiness, he is effective. He plays well with teammates, understands spacing, is efficient with puck movement, and consistently creates scoring chances.

Scouts praise his off-puck play, defensive positioning, and reads, suggesting he could be an effective NHL player. He tracks back through the middle, cuts off passing lanes, and avoids unnecessary physicality. His mature game might lead him to become a valuable defensive forward, providing organizational depth in the NHL.

UMass Minutemen

Cole O`Hara, Aydar Suniev and Michael Hrabal

UMass has been a strong program for some time, with several notable players in the tournament. Their top three centers—Lucas Mercuri (Carolina Hurricanes), Dans Locmelis (Boston Bruins), and Kenny Connors (Los Angeles Kings)—are among the best in the NCAA, known for skill and reliability.

O`Hara (Predators) led Hockey East in scoring and arguably deserved a Hobey Baker nomination with 22 goals and 51 points in 38 games. He is effective at both ends of the ice, driving offense and excelling as a penalty killer. An all-situations player, he shifts momentum in his team`s favor. This right-winger is impactful across many areas of the ice, and the Predators would benefit from signing him after the season. O`Hara can single-handedly change a game`s direction and has been a rising star in college hockey. Teams will have trouble with his speed, rush attacks, and defensive abilities that quickly transition into offense, faster than any other player in college hockey. Expect O`Hara to be crucial for UMass offensively and defensively.

Suniev (Calgary Flames) had an excellent sophomore season with 18 goals and 36 points in 33 games. His playmaking has always been strong, and his shooting improved significantly this season, doubling his goal count. Suniev led UMass with 116 shots and tied for second in team goals. He protects the puck well, is hard to contain, and creates scoring chances in tight spaces. His vision and offensive play execution will be key in their first game against Minnesota.

Hrabal (Utah Hockey Club) has been outstanding in his second season as starter, with a .926 save percentage and 2.33 goals-against average, including two shutouts. The 20-year-old has consistently provided solid starts and is a cornerstone of UMass’s success. Hrabal’s height (6-foot-7) allows him to see over screens, making it hard to obstruct his vision. He covers the lower net effectively with his reach and can easily seal off vulnerable areas. If UMass is to make a tournament run, Hrabal must perform at his best.

Minnesota Golden Gophers

Jimmy Snuggerud, Matthew Wood and Sam Rinzel

Snuggerud (St. Louis Blues) outscored his nearest teammate by 11 points this season, leading Minnesota with 22 goals and 49 points in 39 games. A Hobey Baker finalist, the first-rounder rebounded from a less productive sophomore year and is expected to be a solid middle-six NHL scoring winger. He reads and anticipates the game well, capitalizing on open ice and creating scoring chances for his line.

He is a versatile player, capable of both scoring and setting up teammates, making him difficult to defend. Snuggerud will need to perform exceptionally for Minnesota to make a deep tournament run.

Wood (Predators) transferred from Connecticut to Minnesota, and his offensive output significantly increased. This 6-foot-4 right-winger is a goal scorer who creates opportunities by effectively protecting the puck and getting to the net at opportune times. He is learning to use his size to better shield defenders and capitalize on his excellent shot. While not a powerful play driver for his size, he prefers a more calculated approach, positioning himself to get quality shots on goal.

Rinzel (Chicago Blackhawks) had a strong season at Minnesota, a program known for developing high-quality defensemen. His game has become more refined compared to his raw potential when drafted. This big, right-handed defender tallied 31 points this season. His top-tier skating has enabled him to become one of the leading NCAA transition defenders. He reads plays well and knows how to use his skills to influence game outcomes. Rinzel has a strong chance to become a second-pairing NHL defenseman by age 24.

Minnesota relies on Rinzel and Ryan Chesley (Capitals) to anchor their defense, and both consistently tilt the ice in Minnesota`s favor. They will need to play effectively and frequently if Minnesota aims for the Frozen Four.

Minnesota State Mavericks

Alex Tracy

After being named both Central Collegiate Hockey Association’s Player and Goaltender of the Year, Tracy was shortlisted for the Hobey Baker and nominated for the Mike Richter Award. As a free agent, Tracy has established himself as one of the NCAA’s premier goalies.

In his three seasons at Minnesota State, his responsibilities and performance have grown each year. The 23-year-old finished with a .945 save percentage, a 1.41 goals-against average, and five shutouts. The Mavericks lack the star power of other tournament teams and will need to depend on Tracy to give them a chance against teams like Western Michigan, Massachusetts, or Minnesota in their regional bracket. Tracy did not allow more than three goals in any regular-season game in 2024-25, a trend he will need to continue throughout the tournament.

Western Michigan Broncos

Alex Bump

Bump’s development has been exciting to watch. With 23 goals and 46 points in 38 games, he is Western Michigan’s primary offensive threat. He has generated 225 shots on goal this season, demonstrating a knack for creating scoring chances and maintaining offensive zone presence while on the ice.

Bump excels in transition, showing quick hands, deception, and the ability to vary his pace to outplay defenders. His shot release is excellent, often surprising goalies. Expect Bump to lead Western Michigan’s offense and be their main scorer throughout the tournament. He has significant potential to become a middle-six NHL scorer, and Philadelphia should be very enthusiastic about his prospects.