Carson Carels, a 17‑year‑old defenseman who has been projected as one of the top prospects for the 2026 NHL Draft, announced his commitment to the University of North Dakota on Tuesday. The announcement follows a breakout season with the Prince George Cougars of the Western Hockey League, where he ranked fourth among defensemen in points and earned a spot as a finalist for the league’s Defenseman of the Year award.
A Strategic Boost for the Fighting Hawks
Carels will join a Fighting Hawks defense that already features top prospects Keaton Verhoeff and EJ Emery, both of whom are expected to return for another season. The trio gives North Dakota a deep and experienced back line heading into the next campaign.
The commitment comes at a time when the program is riding a wave of success. The Fighting Hawks posted a 29‑10‑1 record last season, captured their seventh Penrose Cup under first‑year head coach Dane Jackson, and advanced to the Frozen Four. Jackson’s early impact has already been felt across the roster.
Beyond the individual accolades, Carels’ pledge underscores the growing appeal of the university’s hockey culture and its development pathway to the NHL. Analysts expect his offensive instincts and defensive reliability to complement the existing core and help maintain the program’s recent momentum.