2024-25 Review:

Providence College went 21-11-5, falling 3-1 to the University of Connecticut in the Hockey East Quarterfinals on March 14. The Friars lost 5-1 in the NCAA Northeast Regional Semifinals on March 28.

Key Departures:

Providence lost three significant pieces from last season. Intense defenseman Taige Harding inked his own two year entry level deal with the Chicago Blackhawks. Harding was drafted in the 3rd Round of the 2021 NHL Draft and led Providence, racking up 46 penalty minutes through 37 games. The St. Albert, AB native finished 3rd in +/- with a +9. Explosive forward Trevor Connelly signed his entry level contract with the Vegas Golden Knights on April 1, scoring his first AHL goal with the Henderson Silver Knights on April 13th. The 19th overall selection in the 2024 NHL Draft earned 13 points (4 goals + 9 assists) in 23 collegiate games, while finishing second on Providence behind Harding with 29 penalty minutes as a freshman. Additionally, Connelly represented Team USA at the 2025 World Juniors, winning a gold medal while notching four points (1 goal + 3 assists) in seven games. Finally, Logan Will departs for the ECHL’s Florida Everblades after leading the Friars last season with 16 assists and 24 points.

Next Men Up:

Taken 10th overall by the Anaheim Ducks in the 2025 Draft, Roger McQueen is ready to make a statement at the NCAA level. After missing most of last season due to a spinal fracture, McQueen told NHL Deputy Editor Adam Kimelman on June 3 that he feels 100 percent. Julius Sumpf joins Providence from the Moncton Wildcats of the Quebec Maritime Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). The Munich, Germany native racked up 65 points (26 goals +39 assists) in 58 games played, propelling the Wildcats to a QMJHL Championship and a 2025 Memorial Cup appearance. A true shutdown defenseman, Alexander Rybakov knows his role and executes it. The Chelyabinsk, RUS native locks his zone up tight while reinforcing a large area. Rybakov played with the USHL’s Sioux Falls Stampede last season. Head Coach Ryan Cruthers said of Rybakov, “Alex is a reliable shutdown defender who covers a lot of ice. He blocks shots and is great at breaking pucks out.” 

The Road Ahead:

Providence has a solid mixture of freshman and returning players. Speedy sophomore forward and 2024 Blackhawks 3rd round pick John Mustard looks to continue elevating his game. The defensive core should shine bright with interchangeable pieces able to be plugged in up and down the lineup. Blueliners like 2021 Islanders pick Tomas Machu, Andrew Centrella, Martin Masa, Alexander Rybakov, and Kale McCallum are likely to be utilized in a versatile fashion. Friar starting goalie and 2021 Boston Bruins pick Philip Svedebäck returns for his senior season, with freshman Jack Parsons likely to back up. If the Friars roll their defense and are stingy on the scoreboard, Providence could surprise people.