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UNH Hockey Off Season Thread 2026

Nothing special about a Garden run? For this fan and many it would be HUGE. Considering we have SAT OUT for 11 seasons
I should amend my prior comment a bit. I meant there SHOULD be nothing special about a Garden trip. Not making it to the conference tournament semi-finals for 10 consecutive years while also not finishing in the top four in the regular season standings is an indication the hockey team is in wrong conference.
 
I am especially intrigued by Ryan Johnson, who I think would be grabbing more fanfare if his UAA seasons were reversed.

After scoring 27 goals and 52 points in his final junior season with New Mexico (NAHL) he posted 11-14--25 in 33 games as a freshman with the Seawolves. He backed that up with just 4-11--15 in 25-26. Was that him? Or UAA? What would be the reception if he had instead built from 15 points to 25 points?

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Another interesting note, two of UNH's pick ups - Simpson & Vass - both entered the portal with No Contact tags, implying that UNH was playing the pre-portal game and either seeking out players they liked at important positions or, at the very least, willing to listen on players seeking greener pastures. Another sign of 'desperation' and an awareness of program needs...

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Vass makes four players that have truly caught my attention. He played for Sweden at the U18 WJC and was a 3rd Round draft pick of Columbus. I think he could be a great pick up, despite being just a rotational player on BUs blueline as a frosh. Six of the seven Terrier defensemen to play regularly in 25-26 were drafted, five in the top-three rounds. At UNH, Vass will be one of two drafted defensemen, and easily the highest selection...
 
I am curious about style of play for the in coming players. It is easy to assume that Svartstrom as a large frame forward is going to be good around the net. However his game might be from the half walls or he could be like Wisconsin's Montgomery how is a similar size yet more crafty with the puck on the move.
 
2026 incoming UNH freshman Niko Tournas ranked as 3rd Round 72nd Overall North American Skater in 2026 NHL Central Scouting Final Rankings.Last UNH forward from North America ranked that high was Warren Foegele (2014 3rd Rd 66th) Niko's QMJHL team the Moncton Wildcats have reached the semis and he has nine points in eight playoff games. TY to CHC for this info and all the work he puts in over there very well appreciated.
 
Malte Vass is a defensive defenceman who kills plays through his physicality and motor. He suffocates opponents by taking away their time and space. He is an aggressive play-killer who can leverage his strength and skating to stop rushes early or engage attackers along the wall to separate them from the puck. -EliteProspects 2025 NHL Draft Guide. Can't wait to see him next year.
 
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