Season Overview
The University of Minnesota has released the full 2026‑27 men’s ice hockey schedule, marking the first season under head coach Brett Larson. The announcement comes as the program looks to build momentum after a promising offseason and sets the stage for a competitive slate that blends non‑conference challenges with a rigorous Big Ten slate.
Action kicks off on October 2, when the Gophers travel to face Michigan Tech in the season’s opening game. The early‑season matchup is followed by a series of road and home contests that will test the team’s depth and allow Larson to evaluate his roster in real time.
Homecoming Showdown
A highlight on the home front arrives during Homecoming week in late October, when the Gophers host North Dakota. The rivalry game is expected to draw a packed crowd and serve as a marquee event for the university’s fall festivities.
Non‑Conference Beginnings
The non‑conference portion of the schedule also includes games against Minnesota Duluth, Alaska Anchorage and Minnesota State, providing a varied set of opponents before the Big Ten schedule begins.
Exhibition Highlight
An exhibition game against Bemidji State is slated for January 2, 2027, offering an additional tune‑up before the conference play ramps up.
Big Ten Battle
Big Ten competition will see the Gophers meet Penn State, Wisconsin, Notre Dame, Michigan State, Ohio State and Michigan, with the conference opener against Penn State and a subsequent home series versus Wisconsin. The weekend‑based format gives the coaching staff flexibility in setting specific game dates.
A Challenging Finish
The latter part of the season promises a gauntlet of top‑ranked opponents, including a stretch that features Michigan State, Wisconsin, Penn State, Ohio State and Michigan, underscoring the competitive nature of the schedule.