New Faces in College Hockey
With each college hockey season, an exciting new group of freshmen emerge, showcasing incredible potential. These players range from highly touted draft picks to lesser-known recruits who manage to impress right from the start.
This season, we've identified a dozen standout freshmen who are making waves in Division I men's hockey. These young athletes will be interesting to watch as the season unfolds.
Standout Players to Watch
Adam Benák — Forward, Western Michigan
Adam Benák has hit the ground running in his freshman season with Western Michigan, accumulating seven points (2 goals, 5 assists) in just four games. The talented 19-year-old center is playing on the Broncos' top line alongside teammates William Whitelaw and Bobby Cowan.
Renowned for his playmaking skills, Benák excels in creating opportunities, especially during power plays. His precise passing and ability to find teammates in advantageous positions were evident when he netted his first collegiate goal against Notre Dame.
Chase Reid — Defenseman, Michigan State
Chase Reid, the seventh overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft by the Seattle Kraken, has quickly made his presence felt as a puck-moving defenseman at Michigan State. Last season, he achieved impressive numbers with 18 goals and 30 assists in 45 games for the OHL's Soo Greyhounds.
His speed allows him to evade defenders effectively, making him a significant threat during power plays. Reid has started with five points (1 goal, 4 assists) in his first three games.
Caleb Malhotra — Forward, Boston University
Caleb Malhotra comes to the Terriers after a remarkable juniors season with the Brantford Bulldogs, posting 29 goals and 55 assists while leading his team through the playoffs. As the third overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, he brings both scoring and defensive capabilities to his new team.
Although he has just one point from a recent empty-net goal, Malhotra's potential as a two-way center suggests he will soon find his stride as the season progresses.
Daxon Rudolph — Defenseman, Denver
Joining the reigning champions, Daxon Rudolph was drafted fourth overall by the Buffalo Sabres and is already proving to be an excellent addition. Known for his offensive skills, he is paired with sophomore Eric Jamieson within a developing defensive lineup.
Rudolph has recorded a goal and four assists in his first two games, demonstrating his ability to rise to challenges, especially during a tough matchup against No. 2 Michigan.
Landon DuPont — Defenseman, Michigan
Regarded as the likely number one pick in the 2027 NHL Draft, Landon DuPont made his way to Michigan after an outstanding performance with the WHL's Everett Silvertips. With 35 goals and 98 assists, he has impressed in his early college career.
DuPont has been thrust into a key role on Michigan's top defensive pairing and has already contributed to the power-play unit, showcasing his elite playmaking abilities.
Dylan Edwards — Forward, Quinnipiac
After impressive performances in the OHL, including significant contributions in the playoffs, Dylan Edwards has joined Quinnipiac with notable aspirations. Despite standing at only 5'8”, his agility and tenacity make him a formidable competitor.
Though he's starting slow with four points (1 goal, 3 assists) in his first five games, Edwards’s determination will likely make him a key player as the season advances.
Carson Carels — Defenseman, North Dakota
Carson Carels, another notable sixth overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, is proving his worth with North Dakota. Known for his physical play, he has accumulated two assists in four games and is complementing a younger defensive squad.
His ability to transition the puck and his impressive shot will serve him well as he adjusts to the collegiate game.
Jack Hextall — Forward, Michigan State
Jack Hextall's journey at Michigan State has begun with impressive momentum, scoring two goals and assisting on two more in just two games. A versatile center, he has been effective on the Spartans' first line, showcasing his skills during power plays.
Hextall’s ability to combine physical play with scoring touches makes him an exciting prospect to watch this season.
Maxim Massé — Forward, UMass
Maxim Massé, a power forward drafted by the Anaheim Ducks, led the QMJHL with 102 points last season. At UMass, he entered the season with the expectation of being a strong offensive producer.
Despite a rocky start, Massé has registered one goal and three assists in six games and is a critical piece as UMass looks to improve offensively.
Wyatt Cullen — Forward, Minnesota
Coming from the USA Hockey National Team Development Program, Wyatt Cullen was selected tenth overall by the Nashville Predators. This agile forward is known for his one-on-one play and ability to navigate defenses.
As he adjusts to his new team, Cullen has secured one assist in four games while honing his role within the lineup.
Tommy Bleyl — Defenseman, Michigan State
Another offensive defenseman, Tommy Bleyl, was drafted 31st overall by the Predators. He's shown impressive playmaking abilities and willingness to jump into the offensive plays during his time at Michigan State.
With two assists in three games, Bleyl is making his mark early on and contributing effectively to the Spartans' success.
Victor Plante — Forward, Minnesota Duluth
Victor Plante, drafted 47th overall by the Detroit Red Wings, is adjusting to his role at Minnesota Duluth, where he is part of an all-Plante first line. His potential is shining through as he recorded his first collegiate goals and assists in recent games.
As his role grows with the absence of established players, Plante has the opportunity to step into a more significant scoring role as the season progresses.
Looking Ahead
This season's freshmen are poised to influence their teams significantly as they adapt to the collegiate landscape. Keep an eye on these talented individuals as they carve out their paths in the competitive world of college hockey.
