
Penn State Hockey Faces a Make-or-Break 2026‑27 Season
A combination of defensive shortcomings, the loss of key wingers and a tougher conference schedule puts Penn State's hockey program at a crossroads as the new season approaches.
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A combination of defensive shortcomings, the loss of key wingers and a tougher conference schedule puts Penn State's hockey program at a crossroads as the new season approaches.

Brett Larson's arrival as the new Gophers hockey coach marks a pivotal moment as he seeks to integrate with the program’s tight‑knit alumni network, many of whom he played against in his past.

Eric Rud, a seasoned coach with a rich playing and mentorship background, has been named head coach of the University of Alaska Anchorage. His philosophy centers on player growth, retention, and leveraging Alaska’s unique recruiting landscape.

After three seasons at Minnesota State Mankato, Evan Murr transfers to the University of Minnesota, aiming to contribute his puck‑moving skills and championship experience to a program eager to revamp its blue line under Coach Brett Larson
Bill Radovich, a longtime force behind St. Cloud State’s hockey resurgence, passed away on July 16. His influence stretched from the hiring of legendary coach Herb Brooks to the creation of a lasting scholarship in his name.

Brett Larson, the University of Minnesota's new head coach, brings a blend of playing experience and strategic vision to reshape the program's culture, recruit top talent, and navigate the impacts of NCAA age‑rule changes on the state's hockey pipeline.

Nick Oliver, a St. Cloud State alum and former Wisconsin assistant, accepted the head coaching position at his alma mater while the team was still making its Frozen Four run, navigating family expansion and roster changes with optimism for the program’s future.

After a challenging 11‑22‑3 campaign, the University of Minnesota men's hockey team welcomes new head coach Brett Larson, a revamped roster, and a 35‑game schedule that includes high‑profile rivalries.

University of Minnesota’s men’s hockey program secures a commitment from Brayden Willis, a 65‑point standout from the USA Hockey National Team Development Program, signaling a bright future for the Gophers.

The University of Minnesota released its 2026‑27 schedule, featuring a challenging slate of games under new head coach Brett Larson.

The University of Minnesota men's hockey program welcomes head coach Brett Larson, whose eight‑year tenure at St. Cloud State ended with 153 wins. The 2026‑27 slate features opening series in Michigan, a rivalry showdown with Minnesota‑Duluth, a nine‑game homestand, and a demanding road stretch that culminates in a potential Frozen Four appearance in Washington, D.C.

Max Plante's latest honor adds to a season of record‑breaking performances, highlighting his blend of talent, family tradition, and team‑first mentality.

A season marked by early adversity gave way to a late surge, setting the stage for a promising rebuild under new leadership.