J.P. Hurlbert, an 18‑year‑old forward projected as one of the top candidates for the 2026 NHL Draft, grew up hearing the clang of sticks and the roar of the crowd long before he ever laced up his own skates.
His father, Jeff Hurlbert, a Detroit native who later settled in Texas, first introduced him to hockey in the family garage, sparking a passion that would soon place the youngster among the most watched prospects in the country.
A Draft‑Top Prospect’s Path
After excelling with the Dallas Stars Elite AAA program, Hurlbert earned a spot on the 2024‑25 U.S. National Team Development Program’s U17 squad, a stepping stone that led him to the Western Hockey League, where he joined the Kamloops Blazers.
In his rookie WHL season, he posted 42 goals and 97 points in 68 games, earning first‑team all‑star honors and being named the league’s rookie of the year.
Now committed to the University of Michigan, Hurlbert hopes to help the Wolverines capture a national championship, a goal that has eluded the program in recent years.
Chasing a National Championship
The Hurlbert family’s connection to Michigan stretches across four generations, linking the prospect to legendary figures such as Gordie Howe and Maurice “Rocket” Richard, whose stories his grandfather used to recount as a child.
Jeff Hurlbert describes his son as a true rink rat, emphasizing the relentless work ethic that has defined his rise.
As the draft approaches, teammates and coaches alike note his steady development and the quiet confidence that comes from a deep‑rooted love of the game, positioning him as a key piece of Michigan’s future.