On this episode of the hockey preseason podcast, Colin McCarthy, Kayla Gregoire and Sophie Weller made their case for Massachusetts hockey players to watch this season. After losing most of their scoring, different Minutemen are poised to step up and fill those gaps in the offense.

Sophie’s pick: Reed Lebster

Lebster, a captain for the Minutemen will have many responsibilities heading into the season. The senior had a career high 18 points and nine goals and assists last season. With 12 new faces on the team, Lebster will be a familiar and reliable player for UMass.

Kayla’s pick: Taylor Makar

Last season, Makar was in and out of the lineup due to inexperience, but this year the sophomore should be a constant for UMass. Makar ended last season with one goal, but this year should be different for him. Coming off an off season where he watched his brother Cale Makar win a Stanley Cup, he will be hungry to make an impact for the Minutemen.

Colin’s pick: Jerry Harding

Harding was voted as a captain for the season, showing the faith that UMass players and coaches have in the forward. He has had a tough story with the Minutemen, being a fourth line player last season and missing out on part of the 2021 Frozen Four. This season, Harding will be a player to look out for.