As the NCAA hockey season approaches, Vancouver Canucks fans have several exciting prospects to monitor in the American college ranks. These young players are striving to make an impact with their respective teams and ultimately push for a future in the NHL. Here are three Canucks prospects to keep a close watch on in the upcoming NCAA season:
1. Anthony Romani (Forward, Michigan State)
Anthony Romani is an intriguing addition to the Canucks prospect pool. He is part of the first wave of Canadian Hockey League (CHL) players moving to the NCAA after the recent agreement. Romani committed to Michigan State after three seasons in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the North Bay Battalion and Barrie Colts. He chose Michigan State over potentially turning pro or staying in the OHL for another season. At Michigan State, Romani will join other former CHL players, including Columbus Blue Jackets' first-rounder Cayden Lindstrom and Philadelphia Flyers' first-rounder Porter Martone.
Romani had a remarkable OHL career, leading the league in goals one season with 58 and finishing second in points with 111. Despite an injury-plagued season splitting time between the Battalion and Colts, he still managed 35 points in 35 games. In the playoffs with Barrie, Romani contributed 24 points in 12 games. His offensive capabilities and the chance to play alongside elite players at Michigan State could help him further develop his game.
2. Aiden Celebrini (Defenseman, Boston University)
Aiden Celebrini, though perhaps not as flashy as his younger brother Macklin Celebrini, is a notable defensive prospect in the Canucks system. As a defenseman at Boston University, Celebrini will be aiming to solidify his defensive game and contribute to the Terriers' success. Boston University has a history of developing talented players, and Celebrini will be looking to follow in those footsteps and potentially make a name for himself.
3. Wilson Björck (Forward, Colorado College)
Wilson Björck, a 2025 draft pick, is another prospect to watch in the NCAA. Björck impressed at the Canucks development camp and is on Sweden's radar for the 2026 World Juniors team. His development at Colorado College will be closely monitored as he transitions from the J20 Nationell league.
These three prospects represent a diverse range of skills and potential within the Canucks' development system. Their progress in the NCAA this season will be crucial in determining their future roles within the Vancouver Canucks organization. Other Canucks prospects in the NCAA system include Nick Poisson, who is the oldest invitee to the Canucks prospect showcase and spent the last five seasons in the NCAA.