4. U.S. College Development
United States hockey has come a long way from what it once was. It is on par with many of the Canadian development leagues.
A fascinating article about this topic could be read on NHL.com. The article’s writer, Michael G. Morreale, raised attention to the NCAA and how it has become a good proving ground for today’s players. With players like the before-mentioned Eichel, Noah Hanifin of Boston College and Zachary Werensky are projected to be taken within the top 10 picks of the first round. Here is an exert from his article:
“Competing against older, stronger players has no doubt helped ease the eventual transition to professional hockey for many collegiate hockey players. Eichel, Hanifin and Werenski competed against players who were, on average, 21.9 years old…”
Hockey is no longer no longer dominated by Canada. The quality of talent coming from the college ranks has started leveling the playing ground and putting the United States college programs, as destination for all players.
