The 2026 NCAA men's Frozen Four is upon us, and with it, a host of talented players who will be in the spotlight as they vie for the national championship. This year's tournament features a mix of top prospects for the 2026 NHL Draft, established college free agents, and some of the best young players in the country. Here's a deep dive into ten players who will be pivotal in shaping the outcome of this year's Frozen Four.
Michael Hage, University of Michigan
Michael Hage is a rising star in the world of hockey, and his performance this season has been nothing short of impressive. Drafted 21st overall in the 2024 draft by the Montreal Canadiens, Hage has established himself as a key player for the Wolverines. With 13 goals and 51 points in 38 games, he's a central figure in Michigan's high-powered offense, helping them secure the No. 1 seed with a 26-7-0 record. His combination of skill and hockey IQ has not gone unnoticed, as he was ranked No. 6 on TSN Director of Scouting Craig Button's Top-50 NHL-affiliated prospect list. Hage's performance at the World Juniors, where he led Canada to a bronze medal with 15 points in seven games, further cements his status as a top prospect. As he takes the ice in the Frozen Four, all eyes will be on him, eager to see if he can continue his stellar play and make a name for himself in the NHL.
Keaton Verhoeff, University of North Dakota
Keaton Verhoeff is a defensive powerhouse, and his impact on the University of North Dakota cannot be overstated. The rule change that made Canadian Hockey League players eligible for the NCAA tournament has been a boon for the Fighting Hawks, and Verhoeff is a prime example of its benefits. With 21 goals and 45 points in 63 games during the 2024-25 campaign, he's a force to be reckoned with. Standing at 6-foot-4 and possessing a right shot, Verhoeff recorded six goals and 20 points in 35 games for North Dakota as the youngest player on the team at just 17 years old. His talent has been recognized by scouts, who currently slot him at No. 5 on Button's draft list. Verhoeff's leadership and scoring ability, coupled with his gold medals at the 2024 Under-17 World Hockey Challenge and 2025 Under-18 World Hockey Championships, make him a player to watch in the Frozen Four and beyond.
Eric Pohlkamp, University of Denver
Eric Pohlkamp is a defensive stalwart and a key player for the University of Denver. The San Jose Sharks drafted him 132nd overall in 2023, and his impact on the team has been significant. With 18 goals and 39 points this season, Pohlkamp is a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award, the pinnacle of college hockey recognition. His play has been so impressive that he was ranked No. 45 on Button's Top 50 NHL-affiliated prospects list in March. Pohlkamp's leadership and scoring ability have helped the United States to back-to-back gold medals at the World Juniors in 2024, and his performance at the Spengler Cup in 2026, where he finished second, further cements his status as a top prospect. As he takes the ice in the Frozen Four, Pohlkamp will be looking to showcase his talent and make a case for himself in the NHL.
T.J. Hughes, University of Michigan
T.J. Hughes is a forward with a bright future, and his performance this season has been exceptional. Leading the University of Michigan with 21 goals and 56 points, he was named the Big 10 Player of the Year. Hughes' talent has not gone unnoticed, as he joins Pohlkamp and Max Pante as a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award. His leadership and scoring ability have been instrumental in Michigan's success, and his performance at the Spengler Cup, where he recorded four assists, further showcases his potential. As a top college free agent, Hughes will be a sought-after player in the NHL, and his performance in the Frozen Four will be a key factor in his future.
Cole Reschny, University of North Dakota
Cole Reschny is another product of the NCAA's rule change, and his impact on the University of North Dakota has been significant. With 26 goals and 92 points in 62 games for the Victoria Royals last season, he was drafted 18th overall by the Calgary Flames in the 2025 draft. Reschny's performance for North Dakota this season has been equally impressive, with six goals and 35 points in 35 games, making him second in scoring on the team. His leadership and scoring ability, coupled with his bronze-medal finish at the 2026 World Juniors, make him a player to watch in the Frozen Four and beyond.
Josh Eernisse, University of Michigan
Josh Eernisse is a forward who will be a sought-after free agent by NHL teams after his senior season with the University of Michigan. With 10 goals and 18 points in 37 games, he's a key player for the Wolverines. Eernisse's size and talent have been recognized by scouts, who believe he's NHL-ready and could contribute to teams as early as next season. His three short-handed goals tie him for second in the NCAA, showcasing his ability to step up in crucial moments. As he takes the ice in the Frozen Four, Eernisse will be looking to make a final impression on NHL scouts and secure his future in the league.
Jake Livanavage, University of North Dakota
Jake Livanavage is a defenceman who has been a key factor in North Dakota's success. With five goals and 25 points in 38 games, he's a top performer for the Fighting Hawks. Livanavage's offensive production has been impressive, with 14 goals and 82 points in 116 career college games. His performance at the Spengler Cup, where he finished second, further showcases his talent. As he takes the ice in the Frozen Four, Livanavage will be looking to continue his strong play and make a case for himself in the NHL.
Adam Valentini, University of Michigan
Adam Valentini is a forward who has been a key player for the University of Michigan. With 11 goals and 26 points in 39 NCAA games, he's a rising star in the draft. Valentini's performance in the quarter-finals against Minnesota Duluth, where he scored a goal to send Michigan to the Frozen Four, showcases his ability to step up in crucial moments. His talent and leadership have been recognized by scouts, and his performance at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup and Under-17 World Hockey Challenge further cements his status as a top prospect. As he takes the ice in the Frozen Four, Valentini will be looking to make a final impression on NHL scouts and secure his future in the league.
William Horcoff, University of Michigan
William Horcoff is a centre who has been a key player for the University of Michigan. With 25 goals and 38 points in 39 games during his first full season of college hockey, he's a rising star in the draft. Horcoff's performance has been so impressive that he was ranked No. 50 on Button's Top 50 NHL-affiliated prospects list. His play has been recognized by the Pittsburgh Penguins, who drafted him 24th overall in 2025. Horcoff's leadership and scoring ability, coupled with his performance at the World Juniors, where he finished fifth, make him a player to watch in the Frozen Four and beyond.
Will Zellers, University of North Dakota
Will Zellers is a centre who has been a premier scorer for the University of North Dakota. With 18 goals and 34 points in 37 games this season, he's a key player for the Fighting Hawks. Zellers' talent was recognized by the Colorado Avalanche, who drafted him 76th overall in 2024. His performance in the trade to the Boston Bruins, where he led the United States Hockey League with 44 goals and 71 points, showcases his ability to dominate at the highest level. As he takes the ice in the Frozen Four, Zellers will be looking to continue his strong play and make a case for himself in the NHL.
The Future of the NHL
The 2026 NCAA men's Frozen Four is not just about the present; it's a glimpse into the future of the NHL. With a mix of top prospects, established college free agents, and some of the best young players in the country, this tournament is a showcase of the next generation of talent. As these players take the ice in the Frozen Four, they will be looking to make a name for themselves and secure their future in the NHL. The future of the league is in good hands, and the Frozen Four is a testament to the talent and potential that awaits in the years to come.
