All articles tagged with #canadian hockey league
Gavin McKenna, a highly touted 17-year-old hockey prospect considered a top pick for the 2026 NHL Draft, has announced he will play NCAA hockey at Penn State, citing the competition level and facilities as key reasons for his decision. His move marks a significant shift as the first CHL player to choose NCAA hockey following a rule change, and he aims to develop further before entering the NHL.
The NCAA Division I council has voted to allow Canadian Hockey League (CHL) players to be eligible for NCAA Division I hockey starting in 2025, provided they are not paid beyond actual and necessary expenses. This decision, effective August 1, 2025, could significantly impact both college and major junior hockey by expanding opportunities for CHL players to pursue college hockey careers. However, players with NHL contracts returning to the CHL remain ineligible for NCAA play. The change follows legal challenges and aims to provide more development options for young players.