Many NHL prospects are transitioning from major junior to NCAA hockey. The latest example of that is Nathan Behm, who the Chicago Blackhawks selected in the third round (66th overall) of the 2025 NHL Draft.
Behm is leaving the Kamloops Blazers of the WHL after this upcoming season to play for Arizona State University in 2026-27. Behm will look to enhance his offensive skills at ASU following one final year of major junior hockey. He announced this news himself on Instagram.
Arizona State hasn’t reached the peak yet, but its program is growing. Over the last half-decade or so, they’ve become one of the more prominent destinations in the country. It’s a nice place to live, a good school to attend, and the hockey is above average.
Behm hopes to join a squad that has a chance to compete for a national title. Coming into this year, they haven’t made the tournament since their first and only appearance in 2019. They have been a part of the NCHC since 2024, which is a big step for the program as they look to become a top hockey school.
What are the Sun Devils getting in Behm? He has a lot of raw talent offensively that could translate into a productive forward in the NHL one day. His size and youth will work to his advantage throughout his development. One more year with Kamloops should give him what he needs to be ready for the college game.
By the time he signs to turn pro in the Blackhawks organization, he should be in a great spot. Behm has a chance to become an NHL player, which is all you can ask for from a third-round pick going into their first post-draft season. The path he’s taking in his development shows maturity and commitment to being the best he can be in the long term.
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