Hobey Baker Finalists Announced

Much like the OHL has announced the finalists for their big season awards, the NCAA has also announced their final three in the running for the Hobey Baker award. The award is given out each year to the best National Collegiate Athletic Association men’s ice hockey player. In simple terms, it’s an award for the best NCAA men’s hockey player.

Here are the 3 finalists.

Greg Carey, St. Lawrence

Greg Carey has had quite a solid four years of college hockey for St. Lawrence States leading the team in scoring all four seasons. For his efforts he was named the co-player of the year in the ECAC. Carey put up 57 points in 38 games with the Saints. His 57 points ranks him 2nd in in NCAA scoring.

Carey’s strong play this year not only earned him a Hobey Baker final three nomination, it also earned him a contract with the Phoenix Coyotes and is currently playing in the AHL for the Portland Pirates.

Nic Dowd, St. Cloud State

Nic Dowd was named the defencive player of the year in the NCAA and signed his pro contract with the Los Angeles Kings, not a bad year for Dowd. His St. Cloud Huskies won their first ever NCHC regular season title in large part because of their captain Dowd’s strong two-way game. He put up 39 points in 38 games ranking him 7th in NCAA scoring.

In addition to his defencive player of the year award, Dowd also was named to the First Team all-conference and Scholar-Athlete of the Year.

 Johnny Gaudreau, Boston College 

Photo Courtesy of Getty Images. Credit to Richard T Gagnon

While all three candidates had very strong college junior seasons, Johnny Gaudreau dominated the college ranks this season. The Calgary Flames prospect has been a strong leader for Boston College all season and was a top 10 Hobey Baker finalist last season. Gaudreau lead the nation with 35 goals and 77 points, For his efforts with the Eagles he was named the Hockey East Player of the Year and First Team all-conference. Gaudreau recorded his 77 points in just 39 games, recording points in all but 2 games.

Gaudreau tied a Hockey East record with his astonishing 31-game point streak. Gaurdreau will likely turn pro and join the Calgary Flames next season after an extremely impressive 3 years of junior. He has won almost every NCAA trophy, the only thing missing is a Hobey Baker Award.

Most Notable Non-Finalist- Adam Wilcox

Adam Wilcox was arguably the best goaltender in the nation playing for Minnesota. Wilcox carried the Gophers all season long and was named the B1G 10 goaltender of the year and player of the year. He had an amazing season between the pipes and many believe he deserved a spot in the Hobey Baker final three.

The Winner of the 2014 Hobey Baker will be announced April 11th.