The 2026 Men's Frozen Four kicks off in Las Vegas, featuring four powerhouse teams: Denver, North Dakota, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Each has a rich history, holding a combined 33 national championships. Denver leads with 10 titles, while Michigan, North Dakota, and Wisconsin follow closely with 9, 8, and 6, respectively. The defending champ Denver has been dominant in recent years, but Michigan seeks to end a championship drought since 1998. Wisconsin, viewed as the dark horse, hopes to capitalize on their unexpected tournament success.

By the Numbers
  • Denver: 10 NCAA championships, with recent titles in 2017, 2022, and 2024.
  • Michigan: Last national title in 1998; current goalie Jack Ivankovic hopes to change that.
  • North Dakota: 8 titles, outscoring opponents 8-0 in two tournament games.
  • Wisconsin: 5-1 win over Dartmouth and a comeback against Michigan State to reach Frozen Four.
State of Play
  • Denver comes in with a strong 27-11-3 record and a playoff shutout against Cornell.
  • Wisconsin's unexpected playoff run raises questions about their underdog status.
  • North Dakota's offense is bolstered by a balanced mix of experienced players and fresh talent.
  • Both Michigan and North Dakota have not won titles recently and seek to break their respective slumps.
What's Next

The tournament is set for intense competition, with each team vying for the championship and a chance to regain or secure their place in college hockey history. Watch for key matchups that could shift the momentum in favor of one of the powerhouses or continue to favor Wisconsin's underdog narrative.

Bottom Line

This Frozen Four is a critical moment for each team, with stakes higher for those seeking redemption and others aiming to maintain their legacy. The historical significance and recent performances make this tournament a must-watch for college hockey fans.