Penn State’s men’s hockey program has landed the verbal commitments of two of the most highly regarded prospects from the Ontario Hockey League, Jaxon Cover and Pierce Mbuyi. Both players will soon travel to the 2026 NHL Combine, the league’s final pre‑draft showcase, where they will be evaluated by all 32 clubs before the June draft.
Cover, a four‑star winger with the London Knights, tallied 20 goals and 32 assists for 52 points during the regular season and added a goal and two helpers in the opening round of the playoffs. He pledged to the Nittany Lions on April 10, signaling his intent to bring a blend of size, skill and work ethic to the college game.
Mbuyi, meanwhile, burst onto the scene as the OHL Rookie of the Year, posting 29 goals and 23 assists for 52 points with the Owen Sound Attack. Ranked No. 56 among all draft‑eligible players by NHL.com, he has been projected as early‑second‑round talent and will return to the Attack for another season before heading to the Combine.
The Combine Experience
The NHL Combine is more than a series of drills; it is a comprehensive evaluation that includes one‑on‑one interviews with team executives, thorough medical examinations and a battery of 12 fitness tests. Prospects use the event to demonstrate not only physical prowess but also mental acuity and professionalism, giving clubs a holistic view of each player’s potential.
For Cover and Mbuyi, the Combine represents a final opportunity to cement their draft stock. While Cover sits outside the top 224 prospect rankings, his seven‑round eligibility and the depth of talent in the class could still earn him a selection. Mbuyi’s higher ranking and mock projections make him a more certain prospect, though both will need to perform strongly across the fitness metrics to maximize their chances.
The commitments underscore Penn State’s growing appeal to elite Canadian talent. By securing two of the OHL’s most promising wingers, the program not only bolsters its on‑ice competitiveness but also enhances its reputation as a destination for players aiming to transition smoothly into professional hockey.