2025-26 NHL Statistical Leaders Among Former College Players; Transfer Portal Update: Puck Drop

State of College Hockey Press Conference

Every year at the Frozen Four a press conference is held with a variety of experts about the state of the game. Here are a few things that were said in Las Vegas last week:

On trying to grow men’s hockey from the current 62 to 75-85: “That’s a good number … “Our sport is one of the few sports where the major blue bloods or the major brands don't always win our national championship. You can elevate your athletic department, elevate your university, schedule some of the biggest blue bloods in college sports. They’ll be on your schedule, they’ll be in your building. That’s just something that just doesn’t happen in other sports." — College Hockey Inc. Executive Director Sean Hogan

“You have to understand that the game is expensive, and we have to grow properly.” — Canisius head coach Trevor Large

On how the level of talent is growing with the addition of more CHL players: "I think we're already seeing the quality of college hockey and the rosters. It doesn't matter if you're the first team, No. 1 team in the country or No. 62, your roster is getting better because there's more quality players available. … Approximately one third-ish of the NHL players came directly from college and I don't know anyone that doesn't think that number's going to grow quickly and maybe as much as two thirds." — Hockey East Commissioner Steve Metcalf

On using the Frozen Four to promote the game in non-traditional locations like Las Vegas: "I think is a big deal for exposure, particularly for young kids to see it get into their areas. ... I think we could have some influence.” — Harvard Senior Assoc. AD for Capital Planning and Facilities Tim Troville

On using technology to help improve the game: “I don’t want robot refs. I don’t want the robot umpire thing, that’s for sure." — Minnesota State head coach Luke Strand

Countdown to the 2026-27 Season

The expected start date is Oct. 2. Unofficially it's 165 days.

Hockey Quote of the Day

“I kind of was always the underdog. And I don’t even want to be recognized, I don’t need the fame or any of that, I figure it’s going to come if it comes. I just want to do the best, I want to be the best at what I do. I don’t care if other people think it or not.” Connor Hellebuyck

We'll Leave You With This ...

Porter Martone (Michigan State) was the first teenager to score a goal in his Stanley Cup Playoff debut since 2019.