Mass NHL-level turnover has Minnesota rethinking its 2025-26 path. After six players with remaining eligibility left for the NHL, the Gophers open vs Michigan Tech with a revamped lineup, new captains, and a strong freshmen class. Key returners Brody Lamb and Brodie Ziemer must drive offense while a goalie duel (Souliere vs Di Pasquo) shapes early results. The schedule is rigorous: Boston College, North Dakota, Minnesota Duluth, and a Denver showcase, all testing Motzko’s new, faster, deeper squad.