Wisconsin Hockey's Zach Schulz Nears Return from Injury

Badgers defenseman and Islanders draft pick aims to play in Frozen Four after December leg break

Apr. 9, 2026 at 12:13am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a hockey player in motion, their jersey featuring the Wisconsin Badgers logo, conveying the dynamic energy and determination of the team.A cubist interpretation of a Wisconsin Badgers hockey player's determined drive towards the goal, reflecting the team's resilience and competitive spirit.Las Vegas Today

Wisconsin hockey's junior defenseman Zach Schulz, a New York Islanders draft pick, has been out since December with a broken leg suffered against Notre Dame. Badgers coach Mike Hastings says the team's responsibility is to put young players in positions to succeed, hinting that Schulz may return for the Frozen Four tournament.

Why it matters

Schulz's potential return would be a major boost for the Wisconsin hockey team as they aim to make a deep run in the Frozen Four, college hockey's premier championship tournament. The Badgers will need all hands on deck to compete against the nation's top programs.

The details

Schulz, a junior defenseman, has been practicing and skating with the team as he recovers from the broken leg he suffered in a game against Notre Dame on December 6. Badgers head coach Mike Hastings expressed optimism about Schulz's progress and the team's responsibility to put young players in positions to succeed, suggesting Schulz may be able to return for the Frozen Four.

  • Schulz suffered a broken leg on December 6 in a game against Notre Dame.
  • Schulz has been practicing and skating with the team as he nears a return.

The players

Zach Schulz

A junior defenseman for the Wisconsin Badgers hockey team and a draft pick of the New York Islanders.

Mike Hastings

The head coach of the Wisconsin Badgers hockey team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I do believe part of my responsibility or our responsibility as a program is to put young people in positions to succeed,”

— Mike Hastings, Head Coach, Wisconsin Badgers

What’s next

The Badgers will monitor Schulz's progress in practice and determine if he is ready to return for the Frozen Four tournament.

The takeaway

Zach Schulz's potential return from injury would be a major boost for the Wisconsin hockey team as they aim to make a deep run in the prestigious Frozen Four championship. The Badgers will need all their top players healthy and available to compete with the nation's elite programs.