Each week, this column will highlight NHL prospect and 2019 draft-eligible player news, with a close eye on U.S. men's college hockey, and share some thoughts from recent prospect viewings as we look ahead to June's 2019 NHL draft.
The college hockey world turns its attention to Boston on Monday for the 67th Beanpot final, featuring defending champion Northeastern and Boston College.
Northeastern is seeking its first back-to-back Beanpots since 1984-85, when the Huskies topped Boston University in consecutive years. To do it, they'll be looking to Vancouver Canucks draft pick Tyler Madden, who is tied for the team's scoring lead as a freshman, and goaltender Cayden Primeau (Montreal Canadiens) to be the catalysts. Both were also part of Team USA's silver medal finish at this year's World Junior Championship. For Primeau, this will be his second crack at starting the Beanpot final, after standing on his head with 38 saves in last year's title game.
On the other side, Boston College will be looking to build off of a tight win against Harvard in last week's semifinal. Prior to that 2-1 victory, Boston College had not won a nonconference game since Nov. 14, 2016. It has been a rough couple of years for the Eagles, but a Beanpot title amid the consistency struggles would probably go a long way for building up some confidence.