Red Wings prospect Max Plante wins 2026 Hobey Baker Award

Apr 11, 2026 • 1:44 pm

On Friday, Minnesota Duluth forward and Detroit Red Wings prospect Max Plante was named the recipient of the 2026 Hobey Baker Memorial Award, given to the best player in men’s college hockey.

Plante, 20, accepted the trophy at T-Mobile Arena during the Frozen Four festivities, beating out fellow finalists Eric Pohlkamp (Denver/San Jose Sharks prospect) and T.J. Hughes (Michigan). The Hermantown, Minn., native becomes the seventh player in UMD history to win the award, the most of any NCAA program.

Congratulations to Max Plante, the 2026 Hobey Baker Memorial Award Recipient. #hobeybaker @drinkbodyarmor @mdplanet10 @umdmenshockey @thenchc @teamech @nhl pic.twitter.com/KItzPFW7Ps
— Hobey Baker Award (@HobeyBakerAward) April 11, 2026

After a promising freshman year, Plante exploded in 2025-26, leading the Bulldogs back to national relevance. Playing on a high-scoring line alongside his older brother, Zam Plante (Pittsburgh Penguins prospect), Max tallied 25 goals, tied for the most in the country, while adding 27 assists for 52 points, sitting third in the NCAA.

The Red Wings, who selected Plante 47th overall in the 2024 NHL Draft, were well-represented on the night. In addition to Plante’s win, fellow Detroit prospect Trey Augustine took home the Mike Richter Award as the nation’s top goaltender following his standout season at Michigan State.

Despite the temptation to turn professional with the Red Wings, Plante confirmed he will return to Duluth for his junior season. The decision is fueled by a rare opportunity: his younger brother, Victor Plante is committed to join the Bulldogs next season. Meaning all three Plante brothers will have the chance to play together.

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