Stars' top draft pick makes surprise NCAA decision that turns heads
Photo credit: The Hockey Writers
One of the Dallas Stars' newest draft picks just revealed the next stop in his development path, and it's a big one for his home state.
Brandon Gorzynski hasn't wasted any time mapping out his hockey future.
Just weeks after being drafted by the Dallas Stars, the 18-year-old forward announced his commitment to Arizona State University for the 2026-27 NCAA season.
The Scottsdale native shared the news on Instagram, confirming he'll be staying close to home as he continues his development.
Gorzynski was selected 126th overall in the fourth round of the 2025 NHL Draft, but given Dallas' limited number of picks this year, he ranked as the team's second-highest selection overall.
He played the 2024-25 season with the WHL's Calgary Hitmen, where he made a strong impression as one of the youngest players in the lineup.
In 68 games, he finished with 17 goals, 42 points, and a +27 rating, ranking sixth in team scoring.
He kept the momentum going in the playoffs, adding four goals and eight points in 11 games.
Why Arizona State could be the perfect launchpad for Gorzynski's NHL hopes
Arizona State may not be a traditional NCAA powerhouse, but that's starting to change fast.
The Sun Devils recently joined the National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC) - one of the most competitive leagues in U.S. college hockey.
The conference includes elite programs like Denver and Western Michigan, the last two Frozen Four champions.
In their first year as a full NCHC member, ASU finished second in the standings and even picked up a tournament win before being eliminated by the Pioneers.
For Gorzynski, it's a chance to play top-tier collegiate hockey in a familiar environment, while representing a program that's quickly becoming a serious NCAA contender.
I think it's a smart choice for both sides.
He'll get high-level minutes, elite competition, and the chance to grow into the kind of player Dallas hopes can rise through their pipeline in a few short years.
| POLL | ||
AOUT 8 | 24 ANSWERS Stars' top draft pick makes surprise NCAA decision that turns heads Do you think Brandon Gorzynski made the right call choosing Arizona State? | ||
| Yes | 14 | 58.3 % |
| No | 10 | 41.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
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