St. Thomas' Chase Cheslock Excels as Playmaking Defenseman

Junior defenseman leads Tommies in assists, eyes NHL future

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Chase Cheslock, a junior defenseman for the University of St. Thomas hockey team, has emerged as a top player for the Tommies. After being drafted by the New Jersey Devils in the 2023 NHL Draft, Cheslock has continued to excel, leading the team in assists this season. The 6'3", 205-pound blueliner is known for his offensive prowess and commitment to the team, wearing an 'A' as an alternate captain.

Why it matters

Cheslock's success highlights the Tommies' strong first-year program in the CCHA, as the team sits atop the conference standings and eyes an NCAA Tournament berth. As a legitimate NHL prospect, Cheslock's development is also being closely watched by the Devils organization.

The details

Cheslock, who had a standout high school career at Rogers High School, joined the Tommies after playing part of the 2024 season in the USHL with the Omaha Lancers. He has emerged as the team's top defenseman, leading the squad with 21 assists. Cheslock plays a key role on the power play, using his vision and passing ability to set up teammates for scoring chances.

  • Cheslock was drafted by the New Jersey Devils in the 5th round of the 2023 NHL Draft.
  • He joined the Tommies in January 2024 after originally planning to play the full season in the USHL.
  • Cheslock is currently in his junior season at St. Thomas, where he leads the team in assists.

The players

Chase Cheslock

A 6'3", 205-pound junior defenseman for the University of St. Thomas hockey team, who leads the Tommies in assists and is considered an NHL prospect after being drafted by the New Jersey Devils in 2023.

Karl Goehring

An assistant coach for the University of St. Thomas hockey team, who works closely with Cheslock on the power play and praises his commitment to the team.

Dylan Samberg

A former high school hockey player for Hermantown who won the Reed Larson Award in 2017, and is now a member of the Winnipeg Jets. Cheslock modeled his game after Samberg growing up.

Brock Cheslock

Chase Cheslock's younger brother, who is a standout hockey player in his own right and has committed to play for Augustana beginning in the 2027-28 season.

David Wilkie

The head coach of the Omaha Lancers of the USHL, who gave Cheslock opportunities to showcase his skills during the 2024 season.

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What they’re saying

“He's a kid that's invested in this team and bringing it every day.”

— Karl Goehring, Assistant Coach, University of St. Thomas

“My senior year of high school, I started to get that mindset of getting the puck to guys who know what to do with it. Get the puck to the goal scorers, get it to the guys who make plays.”

— Chase Cheslock

“It means everything to me. Being a leader is such a privilege. It's a role where every day you have to lead by example.”

— Chase Cheslock

What’s next

The Tommies have four regular season games remaining before the CCHA Tournament, where they hope to secure an NCAA Tournament berth in the program's first year of eligibility.

The takeaway

Cheslock's development as a playmaking defenseman and emerging NHL prospect highlights the Tommies' strong first-year program, as the team looks to make history with an NCAA Tournament appearance. His commitment to the team and focus on improving his game serve as an inspiration for young hockey players.