Jackson Blake, a 22‑year‑old forward who spent three seasons at the University of North Dakota, was the catalyst for the Carolina Hurricanes’ 2026 Stanley Cup triumph. He logged seven goals and 13 assists over the postseason, finishing with a franchise‑record 20 points in 19 games and becoming the youngest player in team history to record seven multi‑point outings in a single playoff run.
A Milestone for North Dakota Alumni
Blake joined an exclusive list of former Fighting Hawks who have seen their names engraved on the Stanley Cup. He became the 15th UND alumnus to achieve that honor, and the first since T.J. Oshie in 2018, cementing a lineage of talent that stretches back decades.
The Final Game’s Defining Moment
The decisive Game 5 against the Vegas Golden Knights featured Blake’s most memorable moment: a goal and an assist that together sealed the championship. His performance made him the fourth player in NHL history to register a multi‑point game in a cup‑clinching contest, and at 22 he is the youngest to do so since Drew Doughty and Dwight King in 2012.
Looking Ahead
Coach Rod Brind’Amour praised Blake’s growth, noting that the youngster’s blend of speed, vision and clutch scoring bodes well for the Hurricanes’ next chapter. With a core of emerging talent, Carolina aims to defend its title while continuing to develop players who can make an immediate impact at the highest level.