The 2025 Men`s Frozen Four culminates in a showdown between the Western Michigan Broncos, champions of the NCHC, and the Boston University Terriers from Hockey East.

In the semifinals, Western Michigan ended reigning national champion Denver`s title defense, securing a 3-2 double-overtime victory. This Frozen Four appearance is a first for the Broncos, who previously defeated Denver in double overtime for the NCHC championship, after splitting their regular-season encounters.

Boston University reached the final after overcoming past semifinal defeats, defeating Penn State 3-1. This marks their advancement to the championship game after two prior national semifinal losses.

The Broncos and Terriers will compete for the national championship title at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis this Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET.

Western Michigan stands out as the only top-four overall seed remaining in the Frozen Four, a situation last seen in 2011. Boston College, Michigan State, and Maine were all eliminated earlier in the regional rounds.

The Frozen Four teams boast significant NHL draft talent, with a total of 38 drafted players. BU leads with 14, followed by Denver with 13, Western Michigan with eight, and Penn State with three.

Below is an analysis of each team`s path to victory in the national title game, featuring insights from ESPN college hockey analysts Colby Cohen and Andrew Raycroft, along with key statistics from ESPN research and notable players.


Western Michigan (33-7-1)

Broncos` Road to the Final: Western Michigan showcased dominance over Denver for the initial 40 minutes of their semifinal, leading 2-0 with a 32-8 shot advantage after two periods. Despite a strong push from the defending champions in the third period to tie the game at 2-2, the Broncos ultimately prevailed in double overtime. Owen Michaels scored his second goal of the game to secure the win.

Regional Performance: As the top seed in the Fargo Regional, Western Michigan faced tough challenges, requiring double overtime to defeat Minnesota State 2-1, thanks to Grant Slukynsky`s decisive goal. They then overcame a 1-0 deficit against UMass, winning 2-1 with power-play goals from Liam Valente and Tim Washe during a five-minute major penalty. The Broncos also successfully defended against a five-minute major penalty of their own in the same game.

Key Stats: Western Michigan is making its Frozen Four debut while competing for the national championship. Historically, only three teams excluding the inaugural 1948 tournament have won the title in their first Frozen Four appearance: Denver (1958), Cornell (1967), and Lake Superior State (1988). The Broncos are currently on a nine-game winning streak, the nation`s longest active streak, and have achieved a team-record 33 wins. They demonstrate balance, ranking second nationally in goals per game (3.95) and fourth in goals allowed per game (2.05). Goaltender Hampton Slukynsky maintained an impressive 0.82 goals-against average entering the Frozen Four and continued his strong play in the semifinal.

Keys for Western Michigan to Win:

Forward Line Depth: The Broncos boast consistent quality across all four forward lines, with minimal drop-off in talent. Utilizing this depth to wear down the Terriers throughout the game will be crucial.

Goaltending Excellence from Slukynsky: Freshman goalie Hampton Slukynsky has been outstanding, consistently making crucial saves. His performance will be pivotal in the championship game.

Player Spotlight: Liam Valente. The Swedish winger was instrumental in Fargo, contributing to three of his team`s four goals. His powerful shot is a major offensive weapon. — Andrew Raycroft

Boston University (24-13-2)

Terriers` Path to the Final: After a cautious first period against Penn State, Boston University asserted control in the second. Jack Hughes opened the scoring, capitalizing on a Penn State goalie error. Later, Cole Hutson and Cole Eiserman executed a 2-on-1 break, extending BU`s lead to 2-0. Despite a Penn State goal in the third period, BU goalie Mikhail Yegorov`s 32 saves and a late empty-net goal secured the Terriers` victory.

Regional Recap: As the No. 2 seed in the Toledo Regional, BU dominated Ohio State with six unanswered goals in an 8-3 win. They then reached their third consecutive Frozen Four by defeating Cornell 3-2 in overtime, with freshman Mikhail Yegorov making 37 saves.

Notable Stats: BU`s semifinal win marked their 50th NCAA tournament victory, joining a select group of programs. Coach Jay Pandolfo has an unblemished 10-0 record in NCAA regional games, leading to seven Frozen Four trips as coach and player. He is among a small group of coaches to reach the Frozen Four in their first three seasons. Despite recent success, BU`s last national title game appearance was in 2015. This is their 12th championship game appearance overall. Brothers Quinn and Cole Hutson are BU`s leading scorers, with Cole topping NCAA tournament scoring.

Keys for BU to Win the National Title:

Offensive Speed in Transition: BU`s dynamic offense thrives on fast breaks and plays created off the rush. Their speed and transition game will be crucial, though Western Michigan presents a physical challenge.

Defensive Solidity: While not known for defense, BU showed improved defensive play against Cornell and Penn State, limiting scoring chances around their net. Strong defensive play will support goalie Mikhail Yegorov`s efforts.

Player Spotlight: Cole Hutson. Hutson is recognized as an exceptional and dynamic player in college hockey, drawing comparisons to his brother Lane Hutson. His ability to perform in high-pressure moments will be key in the championship game. — Colby Cohen