Gavin McKenna Leads Ex-CHL Players in NCAA Hockey Season Preview
The 2025-26 NCAA hockey season is set to elevate the prominence of college hockey, especially with the inclusion of ex-CHL players. A rule change implemented in November now allows players from the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) to compete in NCAA competitions. This has significantly enhanced the star power within college hockey.
Key Players Making Waves
Among the notable players shifting to the NCAA are top 2026 NHL Draft prospects Gavin McKenna from Penn State and Keaton Verhoeff from North Dakota. Both players previously showcased their skills in the CHL, with McKenna having played for the Medicine Hat Tigers and Verhoeff for the Victoria Royals.
- Gavin McKenna – Penn State, former Medicine Hat Tigers player
- Keaton Verhoeff – North Dakota, former Victoria Royals player
- Porter Martone – Michigan State, former Brampton Steelheads player
- Roger McQueen – Providence College, former Brandon Wheat Kings player
Impact on NCAA Hockey Dynamics
According to College Hockey Inc., 174 former CHL players will compete in the NCAA this season, including 18 first-round NHL draft picks. Arizona State’s coach, Greg Powers, expressed that college hockey is poised to become even more competitive.
Upcoming Season Highlights
The NCAA hockey season kicks off with a significant matchup on Friday, featuring Arizona State hosting McKenna and Penn State at 10 p.m. ET. Other highlighted games include:
- Quinnipiac vs. Boston College
- UConn vs. Colorado College
Championship Format and Schedule
The NCAA features six conferences with a total of 63 teams, although five are independent. Each conference champion receives an automatic bid to the NCAA hockey tournament, while the remaining spots are filled by at-large teams. The championship will culminate in Las Vegas, where the Frozen Four is scheduled for April 9-11, 2026.
Noteworthy Teams and Players
Western Michigan enters the season as the reigning national champion, having played 42 games last year, a shortened schedule compared to the CHL. Prominent teams and their high-profile players include:
- Penn State – Gavin McKenna, Jackson Smith (Columbus Blue Jackets)
- Michigan State – Porter Martone, Trey Augustine (Detroit Red Wings)
- Boston – 19 NHL draft picks on their roster
While many top picks have transitioned to the NCAA, the league’s enduring strength remains. Upcoming games will showcase the depth and competitiveness of college hockey as it gains increased visibility and talent from the CHL.
Conclusion
The 2025-26 NCAA hockey season promises thrilling action, with new talent from the CHL elevating the game. As teams like Penn State and Michigan State welcome these star players, fans can anticipate exciting developments throughout the season.
