The much-anticipated week is finally here! The 2023-24 NCAA D1 men’s hockey season has reached its climax, with the NCAA tournament field narrowing down to just four teams. This weekend, the Frozen Four will take place in St. Paul, Minnesota, featuring fierce competition between Boston College, Boston University, Denver, and Michigan, as they vie for the prestigious title of 2024 national champions.
Below, we’ve assembled the comprehensive schedule for the 2024 Frozen Four along with a breakdown of the weekend’s events. Keep an eye on BC Interruption throughout the week for in-depth coverage of these crucial games!
Event Schedule
All games of the 2024 Frozen Four will take place at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota, home of the Minnesota Wild.
Thursday, April 11th, 2024
Semifinal Game #1
- Teams: #2 Boston University Terriers (28-9-2) vs. #3 Denver Pioneers (30-9-3)
- Puck Drop Time: 5:00pm ET (4:00pm CT)
- How to Watch: Broadcasted and streamed on ESPN2
Semifinal Game #2
- Teams: #1 Boston College Eagles (33-5-1) vs. #10 Michigan Wolverines (23-14-3)
- Puck Drop Time: 8:30pm ET (7:30pm CT)
- How to Watch: Broadcasted and streamed on ESPN2
Friday, April 12, 2024:
Hobey Baker Award Ceremony
- Finalists: Cutter Gauthier (Boston College), Macklin Celebrini (Boston University), and Jackson Blake (North Dakota)
- Time: 6:00pm ET (5:00pm CT)
- How to Watch: Televised live on the NHL Network and streamed on the Hobey Baker website
Saturday, April 13, 2024:
2024 National Championship Game
- Teams: Winners of Boston College vs. Michigan and Boston University vs. Denver
- Puck Drop Time: 6:00pm ET (5:00pm CT)
- How to Watch: Broadcasted and streamed on ESPN2
Betting Odds
Boston University vs. Denver
- Boston University favored by -1.5 goals (+135)
- Denver underdog by +1.5 goals (-175)
- Over/under: 7 goals
- Moneyline: Boston University (-166) favored over Denver (+130)
Boston College vs. Michigan
- Boston College favored by -1.5 goals (+124)
- Michigan underdog by +1.5 goals (-160)
- Over/under: 7 goals
- Moneyline: Boston College (-175) favored over Michigan (+135)
National Championship Winner
- Boston College (+150) favored to win
- Boston University (+225) second-likeliest odds to win
- Michigan and Denver (+450) tied for third-likeliest odds to win
The Teams
Boston College
The Eagles are the frontrunners for the 2024 national championship, and their track record speaks volumes. Dominating UMass and BU en route to their first Hockey East championship in over a decade, BC capped off a stellar regular season, boasting the highest number of wins by any Hockey East team since Maine in 1993. With six Eagles named to Hockey East all-star teams, and four among the nation’s top point earners, along with standout freshman goaltender Jacob Fowler and seasoned captain defenseman Eamon Powell, BC is a youthful force to be reckoned with. Their potent offense, anchored by a standout freshman line, coupled with stellar goaltending and a top-tier defense, makes them a formidable contender for their first national title since 2012.
Michigan
Making their third consecutive Frozen Four appearance, the Wolverines are no strangers to the big stage, yet victory has eluded them since 1998. Despite the departure of Hobey Baker winner Adam Fantilli last offseason, Michigan’s offense remains potent, led by a cadre of playmakers such as Gavin Brindley, Rutger McGroarty, Dylan Duke, and T.J. Hughes. However, defensive vulnerabilities have plagued the Wolverines, leaving them outside the top-30 in Goals Against/Game. Despite impressive wins over formidable opponents like #6 North Dakota and #4 Michigan State, questions linger over their ability to clinch the elusive championship.
Boston University
As rivals of Boston College, Boston University boasts an impressive season, albeit somewhat overshadowed. With a top-tier offense led by Macklin Celebrini, poised to be the top pick in the upcoming NHL Draft, and standout defenseman Lane Hutson, BU presents a formidable challenge. However, inconsistent performances in high-stakes games, including losses in the Beanpot and Hockey East Championship, raise doubts about their championship prospects.
Denver
Fresh off a recent national championship win in 2022, Denver enters the fray with a blend of youthful talent and seasoned veterans under the guidance of esteemed coach David Carle. Sporting the nation’s highest goal-scoring average, led by standout forward Jack Devine, Denver’s offensive prowess is undeniable. However, their narrow victories in the NCAA regionals highlight potential vulnerabilities. With a rich history of success and experienced leadership, Denver aims for their second title in three years.