The NCAA hockey free agent market will once again be heavily scouted by NHL teams looking to procure older and potentially more pro-ready talent.
Last year, St. Cloud State senior defenseman Jimmy Schuldt was arguably the most coveted free agent to sign. Following a stellar four year career in the NCHC, Schuldt signed with the Vegas Golden Knights.
Around Hockey East, Providence junior center Josh Wilkins (Nashville Predators) and Maine sophomore defensemen Brady Keeper (Florida Panthers) both gave up eligibility to sign NHL entry-level contracts as un-drafted free agents.
One of last season’s most pursued free agent prospects, Minnesota State defenseman Connor Mackey, opted to return to Mankato for his junior season. Mackey, from Tower Lakes, Ill., will be the biggest fish in the free agent pond this winter.
