The Western Michigan Broncos are set to welcome a wave of new talent as they gear up for the 2026‑27 hockey season, adding eleven players that include four transfers and seven freshmen.
Exhibition Opener Against Western Ontario
The team will open its preseason schedule with a matchup against the University of Western Ontario at Lawson Arena on October 3, offering fans a first look at the revamped roster and a chance to gauge early chemistry.
The regular‑season debut follows on October 8, when the Broncos host Ferris State in a home‑ice showdown that promises early‑season drama and a test of the new depth.
Key Additions
Among the newcomers, defenseman Michael Neumeier brings a season of heavy minutes from Colgate, while forward Casy Laylin arrives from St. Thomas after a 17‑point campaign in the NCHC. Goaltender Quentin Miller, drafted by the Montreal Canadiens, logged 25 games for Denver last year, and forward Adam Benák, a Czech prospect selected by the Minnesota Wild, tallied 77 points with the Brantford Bulldogs in the OHL.
Jordan Keller, a Japanese‑born forward who averaged more than a point per game for the Kamloops Blazers in the WHL, joins the mix, alongside defenseman Edison Engle, who contributed to Team USA’s gold‑medal effort at the 2024‑25 World Junior A Challenge.
Coaches say the blend of youthful energy and veteran experience should deepen the roster, giving the Broncos flexibility in line combinations and special‑teams situations as they chase a competitive edge in the conference.