A New Chapter for the Gophers' Defense
Evan Murr, a 23‑year‑old defenseman who captured two CCHA titles and two NCAA tournament appearances with Minnesota State Mankato, has officially joined the Minnesota Gophers for his final year of eligibility. The move marks the culmination of a journey that began in Stillwater, where Murr starred in high school before stints in the USHL, NAHL and the collegiate ranks.
Coach Brett Larson sees Murr as the centerpiece of a blue‑line overhaul. "We want to add a little bit of age, maturity, and puck‑moving ability," Larson said, emphasizing a shift toward a faster, more offensive style that relies on defensemen who can transition the puck quickly.
Murr’s ties to the Twin Cities run deep. A graduate in business who completed his degree in three years, he is also engaged to Kianna Roeske, a former high‑school and Mavericks teammate. The personal milestones add a layer of familiarity and stability as he steps into his new program.
During the summer, Murr trained alongside NHL prospects Jackson LaCombe and Brock Faber under the guidance of Paul Martin, a 14‑year NHL veteran. The experience sharpened his skill set and reinforced his belief that the Gophers’ reputation as a defenseman‑producing powerhouse can translate into a professional opportunity.
The Gophers open the 2026‑27 season on Oct. 2 at Michigan Tech, a matchup that will serve as Murr’s first official test in the revamped system. Fans will be watching closely to see how quickly the new‑look defense can mesh and whether the faster, more aggressive approach can yield the desired results.