Denver's Pohlkamp Earns Top NCHC Offensive Defenseman Award

Brainerd native continues scoring tear in second season with Pioneers

Mar. 17, 2026 at 3:04pm

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Eric Pohlkamp, a defenseman for the Denver University Pioneers, was recently named the National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC) Offensive Defenseman of the Year. In 35 regular season games, Pohlkamp broke the NCHC single-season record for goals by a defenseman with 16, and he recorded his 17th goal in the NCHC Quarterfinal against Miami Ohio. Pohlkamp was also selected as a First Team All-NCHC player.

Why it matters

Pohlkamp's offensive prowess from the blue line has been a key factor in Denver's success this season, as the Pioneers are the fourth-ranked team in the USCHO.com poll and have advanced to the NCHC Championship game. His ability to contribute on the scoresheet while maintaining defensive responsibility is a rare skill set that has made him one of the top defensemen in college hockey.

The details

In addition to his 16 regular season goals, Pohlkamp recorded 18 assists and scored 3 game-winning goals. He also contributed 5 power-play goals and 1 short-handed goal, showcasing his impact on special teams. Pohlkamp is the fourth straight Denver blueliner to win the NCHC Offensive Defenseman of the Year award, following in the footsteps of his former teammate Zeev Buium.

  • Pohlkamp was named NCHC Offensive Defenseman of the Year and First Team All-NCHC in March 2026.
  • He broke the NCHC single-season record for goals by a defenseman (16) during the 35-game regular season.
  • Pohlkamp scored his 17th goal of the season in the NCHC Quarterfinal against Miami Ohio.
  • The NCHC Championship game is scheduled for March 21, 2026.

The players

Eric Pohlkamp

A defenseman for the Denver University Pioneers who was recently named the NCHC Offensive Defenseman of the Year and selected as a First Team All-NCHC player.

Zeev Buium

Pohlkamp's former teammate at Denver University and the previous two-time winner of the NCHC Offensive Defenseman of the Year award.

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What they’re saying

“My mindset every game is to just play my game. I want to help the team any way I can. As a defensemen, I still focus on defending and being solid in my own zone. When the chance is there I try to jump into the play and create offense. Our team has a lot of talent, so I don't think I have pressure to score. I just try to move the puck well and get shots through while trusting the guys around me to make plays.”

— Eric Pohlkamp (brainerddispatch.com)

What’s next

The Pioneers will face Minnesota-Duluth in the NCHC Championship game on March 21, 2026. If they win, they will advance to the NCAA Regionals on March 27-29, with the goal of reaching the NCAA Frozen Four on April 9-11.

The takeaway

Pohlkamp's offensive prowess from the blue line has been a driving force behind Denver's success this season, as he has emerged as one of the top defensemen in college hockey. His ability to contribute on the scoresheet while maintaining defensive responsibility is a rare skill set that has made him a key player for the Pioneers.