Minnesota Duluth Star Max Plante Wins 2026 Hobey Baker Award

Sophomore forward's historic season solidifies him as top college hockey player

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:06am

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An abstract, energetic painting in neon colors depicting the dynamic movements of a college hockey player scoring a goal, conveying the raw emotion and excitement of Max Plante's Hobey Baker Award triumph.The electric energy of Max Plante's historic Hobey Baker Award win is captured in a neon-hued expressionist painting.Duluth Today

Max Plante, a 20-year-old sophomore forward for the University of Minnesota Duluth, has won the prestigious Hobey Baker Memorial Award, cementing his status as the top college hockey player in the nation. Plante's victory is particularly remarkable given his young age and the caliber of competition he faced, including a Denver defenseman and a Michigan forward.

Why it matters

Plante's Hobey Baker win at such a young age is a testament to his exceptional talent and the evolving landscape of college hockey. His humble acknowledgment of his teammates' role in his success is a refreshing perspective in a sport often dominated by individual accolades.

The details

Plante, a 2024 NHL draft pick, showcased his prowess with 25 goals and 52 points, ranking second and third in the nation, respectively. He ended the season on a five-game point streak, further solidifying his status as a rising star. Plante's family connection to the sport adds an exciting twist, as he will be returning to Minnesota Duluth next season to play alongside his two brothers, Zam and Victor.

  • Plante won the Hobey Baker Award on April 13, 2026.

The players

Max Plante

A 20-year-old sophomore forward for the University of Minnesota Duluth and the winner of the 2026 Hobey Baker Memorial Award, which recognizes the top college hockey player in the nation.

Eric Pohlkamp

A Denver defenseman and a San Jose Sharks prospect, one of the top college hockey players Plante competed against for the Hobey Baker Award.

T.J. Hughes

An undrafted Michigan forward, another top college hockey player Plante competed against for the Hobey Baker Award.

Zam Plante

Max Plante's brother, who is also a teammate at the University of Minnesota Duluth.

Victor Plante

Max Plante's brother, who is an incoming recruit at the University of Minnesota Duluth.

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What they’re saying

“I couldn't have done it without my teammates. They've been a huge part of my success.”

— Max Plante

What’s next

Plante will return to the University of Minnesota Duluth next season to play alongside his brothers, Zam and Victor, as he aims to lead the team to a national championship.

The takeaway

Plante's Hobey Baker win at just 20 years old showcases his exceptional talent and the evolving landscape of college hockey, where young stars are emerging and challenging the status quo. His humble acknowledgment of his teammates' role in his success is a refreshing perspective in a sport often dominated by individual accolades.