The NCAA men’s hockey tournament is about to begin, featuring 16 teams competing for the National Championship at the Frozen Four in St. Louis on April 12th.
The University of Denver, the reigning champions, are back to defend their title after their victory over Boston College in last year’s final. Their defense starts against Providence.
Boston College, currently ranked as the top team, could potentially face Denver in a rematch of last year’s championship if they succeed against Bentley University Falcons in their opening tournament game.
Here are some of the highly touted prospects participating in this year’s tournament:
Jacob Fowler, Goalie, 6-foot-2, 214 pounds
Draft: Third round, No. 69 (2023) by Canadiens
Team: Boston College Eagles
Jacob Fowler is a significant prospect in the Canadiens` system. Exceptional goaltending is crucial for winning championships, and Fowler`s performance in his sophomore season with Boston College has been remarkable. His statistics are outstanding for a college-level player after just two years of development. He is also a finalist for the Mike Richter Award, recognizing the top NCAA goalie.
Fowler is a large presence in the net, utilizing a hybrid style. He effectively tracks the puck, moves laterally, and positions himself to maximize his size against shooters. He shows no apparent weaknesses in his game and has the potential to become a starting NHL goalie.
It will be interesting to see the Canadiens` plans for Fowler after the season, especially if Boston College wins the National Championship and Fowler is ready to turn professional.
Trey Augustine, Goalie, 6-foot-1, 179 pounds
Draft: Second round, No. 42 (2023) by Red Wings
Team: Michigan State Spartans
Trey Augustine is well-known after leading Team USA to consecutive world junior gold medals in 2024 and 2025. The Red Wings prospect is also a Mike Richter Award finalist, boasting a 19-6-4 record, a 2.01 goals-against average, and a .927 save percentage with the Spartans this season.
Augustine`s goaltending style differs from Fowler`s. He is a traditional butterfly goalie, not as tall as Fowler, but with a sturdy build that covers a lot of net width. His efficiency in tracking the play and his pad work for low shots are particularly impressive.
It is anticipated that the Red Wings will sign Augustine to a contract at the conclusion of his college season.
Ryan Leonard, Right Wing, 6-foot, 192 pounds
Draft: First round, No. 8 (2023) by Capitals
Team: Michigan State Spartans
Ryan Leonard is a highly regarded prospect outside the NHL. He is a Hobey Baker Award finalist for the best men’s college hockey player and captained Team USA at the world juniors in Ottawa. In his college career, he has accumulated 60 goals and 47 assists in just 76 games.
He plays over 21 minutes per game and is utilized in all game situations. Leonard is a classic power forward, dangerous in open ice, with a strong shot, and combines skill with intense competitiveness. He consistently engages in tough areas and is physically assertive.
The Capitals are expected to gain a top-six power forward in Leonard. He is likely to sign with Washington after the season and could potentially join the NHL roster for the playoffs.
Aiden Fink, Right Wing, 5-foot-10, 160 pounds
Draft: Seventh round, No. 218 (2023) by Predators
Team: Penn State Nittany Lions
Aiden Fink, a late-round pick, is developing into a notable prospect for the Nashville Predators. The freshman forward ranks second in the NCAA with 1.41 points per game, just behind Michigan State’s Isaac Howard (1.42 points per game).
Fink has been productive offensively in various situations for Penn State. He is quick off the rush and demonstrates excellent hand-eye coordination in traffic. He is especially effective on the power play from the weak side.
Isaac Howard, Left Wing, 5-foot-11, 190 pounds
Draft: First round, No. 31 (2022) by Lightning
Team: Michigan State Spartans
Isaac Howard’s future with the Lightning is being closely watched after his breakout season in East Lansing. His performance significantly improved this season.
Howard plays with speed, drives to the net, and competes hard in traffic. He has always been confident and is now seeing the results. Howard plays a key role for the Spartans, used in all situations and averaging over 21 minutes of ice time. He is also a Hobey Baker Award finalist.
Quinn Hutson, Right Wing, 5-foot-11, 176 pounds
Draft: Free Agent
Team: Boston University
Quinn Hutson is the older brother of Canadiens rookie Lane Hutson and Cole Hutson, a Washington Capitals draft pick. Quinn is completing his junior season with Boston University and is a sought-after free agent.
Quinn Hutson plays over 19 minutes per game, primarily at even strength and on the power play. While not as agile as his younger brothers, he possesses excellent hockey sense and an ability to find open ice. His hand-eye coordination is exceptional.
Quinn Hutson`s college stats are shown below:
