We’re about to turn the calendar to February, which means it’s time to start predicting which recruits we might see in a Merrimack uniform next season.
Before we go any further…these are Mine projections. I think that goes without saying, but I just wanted to get the point across.
Obviously, a lot of that will depend on the number of players leaving via graduation, the transfer portal or by signing professional contracts.
We already know that there are three forward spots open. Luke Weilandt And Riley Bassen left during the season, and Mark Hillier will graduate at the end of this year.
At the back end, there is always the possibility that one or more juniors will graduate early. That’s quite common, as some players come to campus with college credits and many take summer classes. That said, there are no seniors on defense whose NCAA eligibility expires this spring.
Between the pipes, Max Lundgren is already attracting interest from the NHL. I spoke to an NHL scout last week who estimated that Lundgren could receive “8-10 offers” once the season is over. That’s easy to believe. He has been one of the best goaltenders in Hockey East – and nationally – this season, with the added bonus of being 6-foot-4.
For this drill I project three forward openings, one to two defenders and one goaltender. As always, these numbers are subject to change depending on portal activity and potential NHL signings.
The first addition is simple. Alex Mercier is an ’05, which means his junior eligibility is expiring and he must arrive this fall. Mercier seems ready. He is producing consistently in the QMJHL, and all indications are that he is playing with an edge that should translate well to the college game.
The other two spots are more up for debate.
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