Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
1h ago

NCAA Eligibility Shift Sends CHL Players to U.S. Colleges, Reshaping Hockey Pathways

Nearly 325 commitments reflect an immediate reordering of player development across junior and college ranks.

The path south is familiar for Canadian players like Cale Makar. The two-time Norris Trophy winner left his Calgary hometown to spend two years playing for the Minutemen and was voted college hockey's MVP in 2019.

Overview

  • Nearly 325 CHL players have committed to Division I programs for this season and beyond, according to College Hockey Insider.
  • Projected 2026 No. 1 pick Gavin McKenna left the WHL to join Penn State this year, a marquee example of the new pathway.
  • The NHL now retains draft rights to prospects until their 22nd birthday, unifying previously different signing windows.
  • League scouting officials say evaluation practices remain unchanged, though teams gain added flexibility in guiding development.
  • CHL teams are turning to USHL and Junior A prospects to backfill rosters as college coaches brace for deeper lineups and fewer spots for some U.S.-born players.