Here Are 5 College Free Agents Your Team Could Add Now That The Deadline Has Passed

Mike Ehrmann. Getty Images.

With the trade deadline passed and some college hockey program’s season coming to an end, undrafted college free agents become the hot names in the street. Marty St. Louis, Adam Oates, Torey Krug are some names that come to mind when thinking about the big names who played in college and went undrafted. So let’s break down some of the names who could be jumping into an NHL lineup in the next couple weeks. 

Colin Graf, Quinnipiac  

The 2023 National Champion definitely already has some interest from NHL teams. The 6’1’’ forward was 3rd in the nation last season in scoring with 59 points in 41 games, behind only Adam Fantilli and Logan Cooley. This season is no fluke either, with 47 points in 30 games. 

Graf attended Nashville’s camp this past summer and hit the Panthers camp the summer before (2022). I’d assume both are frontrunners to land him. I think Nashville is the perfect spot. Can jump in right away, play and experience some meaningful games in year 1. I wouldn’t be shocked if the Bruins make a run at the Lincoln, Massachusetts native who grew up playing for the Masters with the Junior Bruins. He could potentially jump into the top 6 almost immediately and Don Sweeney gets off to home grown talent.

Luke Krys, Providence

If the last name sounds familiar, thats because his brother Chad was drafted by Chicago and was a stud at BU and his dad was drafted by the Bruins in the 80's.

The former Brown University Captain transferred to Providence this season and has been nails. A shot blocking machine, who has an offensive touch (17 points, 34GP), would be a great add for a playoff team looking to add some depth before the playoffs. Shot blocking offensive d-men dont grow on trees. So whoever gets Krys will find a quick fan favorite at whatever level he plays at. Would be an awesome add for Toronto.

TJ Hughes, Michigan

Someone with the last name Hughes who went to Michigan? Just on those standards alone TJ is set to be an NHL star. But on a serious note, Hughes (no relation to the Hughes brothers) has been dialed in his two seasons at Michigan. In 75 games at Michigan, the 22-year-old Sophomore has 80 points. Hughes attended the Washington Capitals camp this past summer, so I could see him ending up there with the hopes of getting NHL minutes this season.

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Riese Gaber, North Dakota

You might think i'm crazy for putting 5'8'' Riese Gaber on this list. But I think you're a moron for doubting this kid. The UND Captain epitomizes class, leadership, can produce points and play on both sides of the puck. Gaber has been linked to the Bruins and the Panthers after skating at both their prospect camps the past two summers. the 24-year-old is a work horse who any team would be lucky to have, whether it is the NHL or AHL level. 

Liam McIlinsky, Holy Cross

The Quinnipiac transfer has led Holy Cross in scoring the past two seasons after his departure from the Bobcats. The 23-year-old has a huge frame at 6’3’’, but only weighs in at 165lbs. So i’d assume Liam isn’t jumping into an NHL lineup tomorrow. But I think if he spends an offseason in a team's strength and conditioning program and gains some weight, there's a chance he could be a diamond in the rough. 

I wonder if the Devils will take a chance on the former Don Bosco forward. Maybe he becomes the Tommy Cutlets of Newark? Lucky Liam…the pride and joy of New Jersey’s massive Irish Community.