2023 NCAA Hockey: A look at the top prospects to watch during the Frozen Four

While March Madness has defined the month for college sports, for fans of hockey, the Frozen Four is set to begin at the end of the month. The biggest tournament in college hockey, the tournament will see 16 of the top NCAA hockey teams go toe-to-toe, hoping to be named the 2023 champions.

Last season, the Denver Pioneers defeated Minnesota State 5-1 in the finals to claim the Frozen Four crown. Denver will look to defend their title this year and feature Michael Benning, who was named the Tournament's Most Outstanding Player and is set to lead Denver yet again this year.

"I. Love. College. Hockey. What a game last night. Congrats to Michigan and stripes on the win last night. Michigan has a Frozen Four team. Can’t wait for the tournament to start!" - James Murray

While the tournament is one of the most important in the NCAA, it is also an important showcase for young players looking to make the jump to the NHL. Several top prospects will be taking part this year, including potential number two-overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, Adam Frantilli.

Here is a closer look at some of the top prospects participating in the 2023 NCAA Hockey tournament.

Adam Fantilli may be the most talented player during the 2023 Frozen Four

The center, who currently plays for the University of Michigan, has been a force this season in the Big-10 league of the NCAA. In 32 games this season, Adam Fantilli has posted 27 goals and 33 assists for the University of Michigan.

The talented forward is aiming to become just the fourth freshman in the past 24 years to score at a two-point or higher per-game rate.

"Luke Hughes’ teammate Adam Fantilli with a hat trick tonight for Michigan. He will be an amazing NHL player for whoever comes in second for the 2023 lottery this summer." - Vinnie Parise

Fantilli has only been behind Connor Bedard on nearly every prospect ranking list heading towards the June NHL Entry Draft. At 6'0" and 191 lbs, the center should have no issues adjusting to the NHL game as he makes his way through his professional career.

Logan Cooley, University of Minnesota

Another talented center hoping to win the Frozen Four is Logan Cooley of the University of Minnesota. The third-overall pick of the Arizona Coyotes during the 2022 NHL Entry Draft, Cooley won the bronze medal for the United States during the 2023 World Junior Championships.

"Logan Cooley made it look easy in the B1G Championship" - PHNX Coyotes

In 35 games with the University of Minnesota this season, he has scored 19 goals and 33 assists and will be looking to lead Minnesota past Canisius in their opening game.

Gavin Brindley, University of Michigan

Another member of the star-studded University of Michigan squad is center Gavin Brindley. While Fantilli appears to be a lock for the number two overall pick, a strong performance from Brindley in the tournament could help him rise up the draft boards.

"Love how Gavin Brindley shapes his skates to time his route and avoid getting too far ahead of the puck. He’s always putting himself in spots that ask questions of the defenders and put defenders at disadvantages." - Greg Revak

The 18-year-old center has posted 11 goals and 25 assists in 38 games with the University of Michigan this season. While he is currently being projected to be drafted as a mid-to-late first-round pick heading into the 2023 NHL Draft, Brindley could see his stock rise if he is able to help Michigan claim the Frozen Four title.