Hobey Baker Award Snubs: Canadiens’ Hage Missed, Hughes & Trudeau Nominated
The pursuit of the Hobey Baker Award, annually recognizing college hockey’s top player, has reached the finalist stage, but a notable omission has sparked debate amongst observers. Montreal Canadiens prospect Michael Hage, despite a stellar regular season, was not among the ten players selected as finalists for the prestigious honor.
Hage, a forward, finished the season tied for the team lead in scoring with 50 points – comprised of 13 goals and 37 assists – in just 36 games played. His offensive output placed him among the most productive players in NCAA Division I hockey, yet the Hobey Baker selection committee overlooked his contributions. The news has been met with criticism, with some arguing that his dynamic play was deserving of recognition.
Instead, it was Hage’s teammate at the University of Michigan, TJ Hughes, who earned one of the ten finalist spots. Hughes, a 24-year-old forward in his fourth season with the Wolverines, also amassed 50 points this season. He is now eligible to sign with any NHL team as a free agent following the conclusion of the college season.
The list of finalists also includes 18-year-old Gavin McKenna of Penn State. McKenna enjoyed a breakout freshman season, registering 15 goals and 51 points in 34 games. His impressive performance has quickly established him as a potential top pick in the NHL Entry Draft. After a slower start to his collegiate career, McKenna found his stride, becoming a key offensive contributor for the Nittany Lions.
Representing Quebec, Félix Trudeau, a native of Terrebonne, also received a nomination. The 23-year-old, in his fourth season at Sacred Heart University, achieved personal bests with 25 goals and 47 points in 38 games. Trudeau’s consistent scoring touch and overall impact on the ice earned him recognition among the nation’s elite players.
Boston Bruins prospect James Hagens was also recognized for his offensive prowess, earning a nomination after recording 23 goals and 45 points in 33 games with Boston College. Hagens’ ability to locate the back of the net and contribute offensively made him a valuable asset for the Eagles.
The only goaltender among the finalists is Trey Augustine of Michigan State. Augustine posted a remarkable record of 23-8-1 with a goals-against average of 2.08 and a save percentage of .929. His stellar performance between the pipes was instrumental in Michigan State’s success this season.
Rounding out the list of nominees are forwards Max Plante (48 points in 37 games), Hayden Stavroff (47 points in 32 games), Charlie Stramel (44 points in 35 games), and Ethan Wyttenbach (58 points in 38 games), as well as defenseman Eric Pohlkamp (37 points in 38 games). Wyttenbach led all nominees in total points.
The Hobey Baker Award committee faced a demanding task in narrowing down the field to ten finalists, given the wealth of talent across NCAA Division I hockey. The award recognizes not only individual performance but also character, sportsmanship, and leadership qualities. The finalists represent a diverse range of programs and backgrounds, showcasing the depth and breadth of talent within college hockey.
The omission of Michael Hage from the finalist list is sure to fuel further discussion as the award selection process continues. While his statistics are undeniably impressive, the committee ultimately weighed all factors in making their decision. The winner of the Hobey Baker Award will be announced on , in a ceremony celebrating the best of college hockey.