Gopher Hockey’s Future Soars with Stellar Recruits

Gopher men’s hockey has been on fire recruiting this summer, landing five top in-state prospects in just two weeks. These commitments won’t impact the 2025-26 roster but signal a dazzling future for Minnesota. After losing their top five scorers from last season, the Gophers may see a slight talent dip in 2025-26. Still, stars like Brody Lamb, Tanner Ludtke, Jimmy Clark, Brody Ziemer, and freshman LJ Mooney keep them poised to make waves this year.

While a postseason push is within reach, the real excitement lies in the stacked rosters projected for 2026-27 and 2027-28. With only Lamb, Cal Thomas, and the Mittelstadt brothers (John and Luke) losing eligibility after this season, and barring early NHL departures, Minnesota’s future looks loaded with talent.

 

 

 

 

2026-27 Projected Roster

Denotes committed freshman

Forwards
1st Line: Tanner Ludtke – LJ Mooney – Brody Ziemer
2nd Line: Beckett Hendrickson – Erik Pahlsson – Mason Moe
3rd Line: Javon Moore – Jimmy Clark – Jacob Kvasnicka
4th Line: August Falloon – Teddy Townsend – Tate Pritchard
Extras: Jackson Nevers, Brooks Cullen, Hayden Reid, Graham Harris

Defense
1st Pair: John Whipple – Leo Gruba
2nd Pair: Jacob Rombach – Finn McLaughlin
3rd Pair: Mace’o Phillips – Max Rudd
Extra: Axel Begley, Matthew Grimes

Goalies
Starter: Nathan Airey
Backup: Luca Di Pasquo
Emergency: *Carter Casey

Note: Retaining Ziemer, Ludtke, and Clark past 2025-26 seems unlikely due to potential NHL jumps, but keeping even one would make Minnesota’s 2026-27 roster formidable.

2027-28 Projected Roster

Forwards
1st Line: Beckett Hendrickson – LJ Mooney – Jacob Kvasnicka
2nd Line: Javon Moore – Erik Pahlsson – Mason Moe
3rd Line: Brooks Cullen – Wyatt Cullen – Tate Pritchard
4th Line: Gunnar Conboy – Teddy Townsend – *Luca Jarvis
Extras: Jackson Nevers, August Falloon, Hayden Reid, Graham Harris, Gavin Katz

Defense
1st Pair: John Whipple – Leo Gruba
2nd Pair: Jacob Rombach – Finn McLaughlin
3rd Pair: Mace’o Phillips – Max Rudd
Extra: Matthew Grimes

Goalies
Starter: Carter Casey

Outlook: College hockey recruiting is fluid, but Minnesota’s recent commitments signal a bright future. With Coach Bob Motzko’s contract extending through 2027-28, the Gophers are poised for championship contention in this window.

Source:  SI.com