Captain Contenders Emerge as Gophers Eye Goalie Surprise

Minnesota Golden Gophers Hockey: 2025-26 Goaltender and Captain Outlook

The Minnesota Golden Gophers men’s hockey team enters the 2025-26 season with questions surrounding key leadership roles. With no official announcements as of June 2025, speculation centers on the starting goaltender and team captain, both critical to the team’s Big Ten aspirations.

Goaltender Competition

The departure of Justen Close, a stalwart in net, leaves a void for the Gophers. Nathan Airey, a sophomore in 2024-25, emerges as the frontrunner to claim the starting role. Airey served as Close’s backup, appearing in limited action, including a series against Robert Morris and exhibitions. His development under Coach Bob Motzko positions him as a natural successor, though his inexperience raises questions.

Challenging Airey is Liam Souliere, a graduate transfer from Penn State. Souliere’s 62 games with a .904 save percentage offer veteran stability, making him a strong contender. His performance in 2024-25, likely as a backup or competitor, will shape his case. Zach Wiese, another rostered goaltender, remains a long shot for significant minutes. The Gophers’ history of recruiting through the transfer portal or freshmen suggests a potential new addition, but no names have surfaced. The starting role will likely hinge on fall 2025 training camp performances.

Captaincy Race

The captaincy race focuses on returning veterans, with Mason Nevers as the leading candidate. A fifth-year forward in 2024-25, Nevers previously served as a captain in 2023-24, earning praise for leadership. His 57 points in 138 games and local ties to Edina, Minn., bolster his case. If Nevers returns, he’s a near-lock to wear the “C.”

Other contenders include Aaron Huglen, a senior forward with 60 points in 134 games, though his potential pro contract could remove him from consideration. Junior forwards Jimmy Clark and John Mittelstadt offer depth but lack Nevers’ experience. The Gophers’ tradition of multiple captains suggests Nevers could be joined by an alternate like Huglen or Clark.

Outlook

Airey and Nevers are poised to lead, but roster changes and camp performances will finalize these roles. Fans await official updates from GopherSports.com in late summer 2025.