Blazers await decisions from NCAA-committed players with roster uncertainty next season

JP Hurlbert – Michigan Wolverines
Nathan Behm – Arizona State Sun Devils
Josh Evaschesen – Rensselaer (RPI) Engineers
Tommy Lafreniere – Western Michigan Broncos

“I’ve got a big decision to make here,” says Tommy Lafreniere, who finished third in Blazers scoring this year. “Obviously, I’m committed to Western Michigan and this is an unbelievable spot, so I’ve got to make a decision on what to do next year.”

For forward Josh Evaschesen, it’s a different perspective after getting invited and making the team out of training camp in September.

“For now, I kind of have some decisions to make,” said Evaschesen, who is committed to RPI.

“They invited me out here and kind of gave me a chance, so you know, in a way, I owe them. But for me, it’s also what’s best for you, so I’ve got a talk to people. Obviously, I’m leaning toward going (to college) a little bit, but we’ll see what happens.”

A key factor includes the difference between the Western Hockey League and college hockey. The WHL has a track record of players making the jump to the pros, while the NCAA provides older, more physical competition.

“I think, obviously, both leagues are great,” says Arizona State commit Nathan Behm. “I think it’s just going to come down to personal preference and what you kind of want to get better at. Like I said, both leagues are great. We’re going to have some serious conversations, but yeah, just nothing’s set in stone yet.”

It’s unknown territory for management, players and fans. For the Blazers, an ideal situation would be the return of the entire roster for the 2026-27 season and an opportunity to make a run at a WHL championship. But the team knows if an NCAA school is chosen, the organization is proud to have helped a player in their hockey journey.

by Anthony Corea

Blazers await decisions from NCAA-committed players with roster uncertainty next season

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