Max Plante Returned to UMD Hockey Team
The reigning Hobey Baker winner bypassed professional opportunities to return for his junior season.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Hockey
Live Poll
Would you prioritize winning a college championship over starting a professional career?
Reigning Hobey Baker Award winner Max Plante has opted to return to the UMD men's hockey team for his junior season, citing unfinished business after the previous year. He joins a roster featuring 19 returning players as the squad sets its sights on a fourth national championship.
Why it matters
Plante's decision to bypass professional opportunities provides a significant boost to the team's championship aspirations following a disappointing loss last season. His return unites him with his brothers on the ice as the program looks to secure another title.
The UMD men's hockey team returns 19 players to the roster for the upcoming campaign. The team has explicitly stated a goal of adding a fourth national championship banner to its collection.
The players
Max Plante
He is the reigning Hobey Baker Award winner who chose to return to college hockey for his junior season.
Victor Plante
He joins the UMD hockey program as a freshman for the upcoming season.
The details
Max, Zam, and Victor Plante will share the ice at AMSOIL Arena this season, with freshman Victor joining the team alongside his brothers. The program is heavily motivated by the memory of a difficult loss in Albany during the previous year.
Timeline
September 2026 marked the UMD men's hockey media day.
October 2026 is the scheduled start for the home opener against Long Island University.
2007 was the last time a Hobey Baker recipient returned to college hockey.
Season Trajectory
Max Plante's decision to return mirrors the rare 2007 precedent of a Hobey Baker winner opting for college over the pros. This move significantly alters the competitive balance for UMD and sets a clear path toward the team's pursuit of a fourth national championship.
Fans in Duluth can look forward to the debut of the three brothers together when the home series against Long Island University begins in October. The presence of a returning Hobey Baker winner significantly elevates the team's offensive potential and playoff outlook for the season.
The takeaway
The return of a star player like Plante provides a rare opportunity for UMD to build consistency and experience on the ice. Readers should watch how the brotherly trio develops in the lineup during the early home series at AMSOIL Arena.
Further reading
For more on local collegiate programs, visit Hockey.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Northernnewsnow.
Live Poll
Would you prioritize winning a college championship over starting a professional career?
