Max Plante, a sophomore forward for the University of Duluth, has been crowned the 2026 USA Hockey’s Jim Johannson College Player of the Year, cementing his place among the program’s most celebrated alumni.
A milestone in Bulldog history
He becomes the fifth player in UMD’s storied history to receive the honor, joining an exclusive list that reflects a century of excellence in collegiate hockey.
The award, presented by USA Hockey, recognizes not only individual brilliance but also the impact a player has on his team’s success throughout a season.
Family ties to the trophy
Plante follows in the footsteps of his father, Derek Plante, who was the inaugural recipient of the Jim Johannson award during the 1992‑1993 season, making their lineage one of the few father‑son duos to share the accolade.
Adding to the narrative, Max Plante had already captured the Hobey Baker Award earlier in 2026, further underscoring his dominance and the high expectations placed on him.
A Duluth story rooted in Minnesota
The University of Duluth, located in the Twin Ports region of Minnesota, has long been a breeding ground for NHL talent, and Plante’s recent achievements only deepen that reputation.
His roots trace back to Hermantown, a suburb just minutes from the campus, where he honed his skills on local rinks before starring for the Bulldogs.
University officials praised the sophomore’s dedication, noting that his performance reflects the institution’s commitment to developing both athletic and academic excellence.
As the news spreads, fans and analysts alike anticipate how Plante will carry his momentum into the upcoming season, with many predicting a potential run at the national championship.