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The 2025-2026 DU Pioneers Hockey Roster: Key Players, Freshmen, And The Quest For The Next NCAA Title

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The University of Denver Pioneers Men's Ice Hockey team is once again a powerhouse contender, with the 2025-2026 season roster showcasing a dynamic blend of veteran talent and high-impact newcomers. As of late December 2025, the Pioneers are deep into their schedule, navigating the rigorous National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC) slate with eyes firmly set on securing another NCAA National Championship title.

Following a season that saw significant departures, including their top four scorers and starting goaltender, Head Coach David Carle has successfully reloaded the squad with a highly-touted freshman class, positioning the Pioneers for a deep postseason run. The team was voted second in the NCHC Preseason Media Poll, a testament to the program's consistent strength and the immediate impact expected from the new lineup. [cite: 10 (from step 1)]

The Complete 2025-2026 DU Pioneers Roster Breakdown

The Denver Pioneers are renowned for their depth, and the 2025-2026 roster is no exception, featuring a diverse group of players from across North America and Europe. The team is structured to maintain a high-tempo, offensive-minded style of play, a hallmark of the program under Head Coach David Carle. The roster is currently anchored by a core group of sophomores and juniors who have stepped up to fill the void left by last season's departing stars, such as Jack Devine. [cite: 7 (from step 3)]

Key Forwards and Top Scorers

The forward group is a mix of speed and scoring touch. Early-season cumulative statistics highlight several players who have taken on an increased scoring responsibility. [cite: 3 (from step 3), 15 (from step 2)]

  • Hagen Burrows (Sophomore, Forward): A key returner who has emerged as one of the team's leading scorers in the first half of the season, showcasing consistency and a strong two-way game. [cite: 3 (from step 3)]
  • Jake Fisher (Sophomore, Forward): Matching Burrows' early-season production, Fisher provides crucial secondary scoring and energy on the forecheck. [cite: 3 (from step 3)]
  • Kyle Chyzowski (Freshman, Forward): One of the most impactful newcomers, Chyzowski has quickly adapted to the NCAA pace, contributing immediately to the Pioneers' offensive output. [cite: 3 (from step 3)]
  • Kieran Cebrian (Junior, Forward): A veteran presence among the top scorers, Cebrian's experience is vital for guiding the younger offensive players in high-pressure NCHC matchups. [cite: 3 (from step 3)]
  • Brendan McMorrow (Freshman, Forward): A highly anticipated recruit, McMorrow is expected to be a major offensive catalyst as the season progresses. [cite: 2 (from step 3)]

Defensive Core and Goaltending

The Pioneers' defense is built on mobility and puck movement, crucial for transitioning quickly from defense to offense. The goaltending situation features new faces stepping into prominent roles.

  • Tory Pitner (Defenseman): An important part of the defensive corps, Pitner provides size and stability on the blue line. [cite: 7 (from step 1)]
  • Eric Jamieson (Freshman, Defenseman): A new addition to the blue line, Jamieson brings fresh talent and potential to the defensive unit. [cite: 2 (from step 3)]
  • Johnny Hicks (Freshman, Goaltender): With the departure of the previous starting goalie, Hicks is one of the freshmen tasked with backstopping the Pioneers' championship aspirations. His performance will be a major storyline for the season. [cite: 2 (from step 3), 7 (from step 3)]

The Pioneers’ Leadership and Coaching Staff

The continued success of the Denver Pioneers program is inextricably linked to its stable and experienced coaching staff. The staff provides the strategic vision and player development crucial for competing in the demanding NCHC. [cite: 2, 3 (from step 2)]

Head Coach David Carle

David Carle is in his eighth season as the Richard and Kitzia Goodman Hockey Head Coach for the Pioneers, having taken the reins in May 2018. [cite: 8 (from step 2)] Carle is one of the most respected young coaches in college hockey, known for his ability to recruit top-tier talent and develop them into NHL-ready players. His leadership has maintained Denver's status as a perennial national championship contender, including their recent NCAA title run. [cite: 8 (from step 2)]

Assistant Coaches

Carle is supported by a strong team of assistant coaches, who are essential for player development and game planning: [cite: 3, 4 (from step 2)]

  • Dallas Ferguson (Assistant Coach): Ferguson brings extensive coaching experience, focusing on defensive strategy and player mentorship.
  • Tavis MacMillan (Assistant Coach): MacMillan is key to the Pioneers' offensive structure and power-play efficiency.

The entire staff works to instill a culture of excellence, a necessary ingredient for success in the competitive NCHC landscape.

Navigating the 2025-2026 NCHC Schedule and Key Matchups

The National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC) is widely regarded as the toughest conference in college hockey, and the 2025-2026 schedule is packed with challenging series. [cite: 7 (from step 2)] The Pioneers' journey to the NCAA Tournament will be defined by their performance against their league rivals.

The NCHC Gauntlet

The NCHC features eight of the nation's premier college hockey programs, including perennial rivals that consistently test the Pioneers' mettle. Key conference opponents include: [cite: 5, 7, 13, 14 (from step 2)]

  • Western Michigan Broncos: The Broncos, who were the reigning NCAA Champions heading into the season, are always a high-stakes opponent. [cite: 5, 10 (from step 1)]
  • North Dakota Fighting Hawks: The rivalry with North Dakota is one of the most intense in college hockey, with every game carrying significant weight in the national rankings. [cite: 5 (from step 2)]
  • Colorado College Tigers: The "Battle for the Gold Pan" against in-state rival Colorado College remains one of the most anticipated series of the year. [cite: 7 (from step 2)]
  • St. Cloud State Huskies: Another consistently strong NCHC foe that challenges Denver's dominance.
  • Omaha Mavericks: The Mavericks add another layer of competition to the demanding conference schedule. [cite: 14 (from step 2)]

Home Ice Advantage at Magness Arena

Playing at the Ritchie Center's Magness Arena gives the Pioneers a significant home-ice advantage. The atmosphere created by the Denver student section and local fans is electric, often providing the necessary energy boost during critical conference series. The home schedule is always a highlight, featuring non-conference matchups that help prepare the team for the intensity of the NCHC playoffs and the ultimate goal: the NCAA Tournament. [cite: 4 (from step 1)]

The 2025-2026 DU Pioneers hockey roster is a team in transition, but one built on a foundation of elite recruiting and championship pedigree. While the loss of top scorers like Jack Devine presents a challenge, the emergence of players like Hagen Burrows and the immediate contribution of the freshman class signal that the Pioneers are well-equipped to contend for both the NCHC title and a spot in the Frozen Four.

The 2025-2026 DU Pioneers Hockey Roster: Key Players, Freshmen, and the Quest for the Next NCAA Title
du pioneers hockey roster
du pioneers hockey roster

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