Max Plante, a forward prospect for the Detroit Red Wings, has been named the winner of the 2026 Hobey Baker Memorial Award, given annually to the top player in men’s college hockey. The 20-year-old sophomore from Minnesota Duluth earned the honor after a standout season that placed him among the elite performers in NCAA hockey, beating out finalists Eric Pohlkamp and T.J. Hughes.
Plante’s reaction reflected the emotional weight of the moment, comparing it to the NHL Draft experience and describing it as surreal. Surrounded by his family, he expressed pride in becoming part of Minnesota Duluth’s long tradition of Hobey Baker winners. The Bulldogs have now produced seven winners, the most of any NCAA program since the award’s inception in 1981, with Plante following in the footsteps of alumni such as Scott Perunovich.
Plante Delivers Dominant Season With Elite Scoring, Consistency, and Tournament Impact Performance
On the ice, Plante delivered a dominant campaign. He led Minnesota Duluth with 25 goals and 52 points, marking the program’s highest scoring total since the 2011–12 season. Across 40 games, he ranked near the top nationally in multiple categories, including tied for second in goals, third in total points, and eighth in points per game at 1.30. He also recorded six game-winning goals and eight power-play goals, showcasing his impact in critical situations.
His consistency was another defining trait, as he registered points in 29 games and finished the season on a strong five-game streak. That run included a key performance in the NCAA Tournament, where he helped Minnesota Duluth reach the Albany Regional Final before a narrow loss to Michigan. Despite his individual success, Plante emphasized the importance of his linemates and credited them for his production.
Plante Family Legacy, Return Decision, and Strong Hobey Baker Finalist Season Highlights
Plante’s award also highlights a remarkable hockey family lineage. His older brother, Zam Plante, is his teammate at Minnesota Duluth and a Pittsburgh Penguins draft pick, while his younger brother, Victor Plante, is a top-ranked prospect in the USA Hockey National Team Development Program and is committed to joining the Bulldogs. Their father, Derek Plante, played 450 NHL games and was once a Hobey Baker finalist himself, adding historical significance to Max’s achievement.
Despite winning college hockey’s top individual honor, Plante has chosen to return to Minnesota Duluth for another season. His decision is driven by the opportunity to play alongside his brothers and pursue a national championship. He emphasized that team success remains his primary motivation.
The other finalists also delivered impressive seasons. Michigan captain T.J. Hughes finished second in NCAA scoring with 57 points, while Denver defenseman Eric Pohlkamp led all NCAA defensemen with 39 points and prepares for the national championship game against Wisconsin.
For Minnesota Duluth, Plante’s win further cements the program’s reputation as a powerhouse in developing elite hockey talent. His combination of skill, consistency, and leadership made him the clear choice for the Hobey Baker Award, while his decision to return sets the stage for another highly anticipated collegiate season.
