The three finalists for this year’s Hobey Baker Award are Adam Fantilli, Matthew Knies and Logan Cooley, according to Steven Ellis of DailyFaceoff.
Fantilli, a freshman at the University of Michigan, is considered a top prospect for the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, and led all NCAA scorers with 64 points (29G, 35A) in 35 games, finishing seven points ahead of Cooley for the top spot. Fantilli has been able to further cement his status as a likely lottery selection in the draft, and adding the Hobey Baker would only solidify that standing.
Cooley, the No. 3 overall pick by the Arizona Coyotes last summer, had 57 points (20G, 37A) in 37 games for the University of Minnesota. Cooley’s strong showing this season has given the Coyotes more reason to believe they have a potential No. 1 center in their organization. His 14 points in 7 games at the World Junior Championships for the US also showed he has an ability to perform in pressure situations. Cooley might be looking to join the pro ranks if he can claim this year’s Hobey Baker.
Knies, a 2021 second-rounder by the Toronto Maple Leafs, finished tied for 19th in NCAA scoring with 41 points (21G, 20A) in 38 games playing alongside Cooley at Minnesota. Knies, a sophomore, built on a strong freshman campaign that saw him record 15 goals and 18 assists in 33 games. As a member of an organization annually tight with the salary cap, Knies has begun to develop into a player who could make an impact in the NHL while on an entry level contract. It remains to be seen when Knies will decide to turn pro, but winning the Hobey Baker could accelerate that process.
The winner of the Hobey Baker Award will be announced on Friday, April 7.
First guy is NCAA leader in points
A second guy 7 points less (ok, possible I suppose with other qualities or an injury or something)
A third guy 23points less and who played along side guy #2
Is Knies really the best “3rd candidate?” Like…there was nobody else from 2nd most points after Cooley?
Graf, Farrell
I don’t follow NCAA so this is an honest question.
I was thinking the same thing
Let’s be honest here. Winning the Hobey doesn’t always equate to being a talented NHL caliber player. While yes many have had great to superstar level careers, many are just depth players at best. Who has ever heard of Jack Connolly, Andy Meile, or Drew LeBlanc at the professional level? I mean congrats on them for winning the award in the past and they’re better players than I could ever wish to be. But its not exactly a calling card to pro success.
Saying that, all 3 of these players appear to have long and prosperous NHL careers ahead of them and are not just future league fodder. Congrats for the nominations and good luck to your futures.
Knies and cooley made up 2/3 of the highest scoring line in the NCAA.
#PrideOnIce
#SkiUMah
Knives is the front runner by far.
#KniesForHobey
#PrideOnIce
#SkiUMah
By far?? He shouldn’t even be on the list. His centerman Cooley likely helped prop those numbers up. He’s essentially a replica of Dylan Holloway from the Edmonton Oilers. Its Fantillis hardware.