At just 16, Joey Cullen is already carving a niche in the world of elite hockey. The Minnesota native, son of three‑time Stanley Cup champion Matt Cullen, is set to become the first member of his family to compete in the prestigious Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
A Family Legacy Meets New Horizons
Matt Cullen’s storied career, which includes three championship rings, has naturally placed expectations on his youngest son. Yet Joey is eager to forge his own path, drawing inspiration from his brother Wyatt, who was selected by the Nashville Predators in the 2023 NHL Draft.
The upcoming Hlinka Gretzky Cup will bring together the best under‑18 talent from across North America, and Cullen will wear the red, white and blue as a member of Team USA. The tournament serves as a showcase for prospects who could shape the 2028 NHL draft class.
Alongside Cullen, the Regina Pats will field two other highly touted prospects, Maddox Schultz and Liam Pugh, who are slated to represent Team Canada. Their participation underscores the depth of talent emerging from the Western Hockey League and adds another layer of intrigue to the competition.
Beyond the Cup, Cullen will spend the fall at the National Training Development Program, honing his skills after a standout season with the Moorhead Spuds High School. Analysts project him as a top draft pick in 2028, positioning him as a potential cornerstone for the next generation of American forwards.