Three LA Kings Prospects Win NCAA Hockey Championship

For three young hockey players building toward NHL careers, the 2025-26 season ended with the ultimate college prize: a national championship ring.

LA Kings prospects Kristian Epperson, Brendan McMorrow, and James Reeder celebrated with their Denver University teammates after defeating Wisconsin 2-1 in the NCAA championship game. The victory marks Denver's third title in five years and the first for all three prospects.

The road to the championship showcased exactly why the Kings drafted these players. In the semifinal against Michigan, McMorrow delivered a clever touch pass in tight quarters to set up Denver's opening goal. When Denver trailed 3-2 late in regulation, Epperson assisted on the game-tying goal that forced overtime.

Epperson saved his best moment for when it mattered most. His sharp pass set up the double-overtime winner that sent Denver to the final, capping a four-point tournament performance.

The championship game tested the team's resilience. Trailing 1-0 midway through the third period, Epperson created a scoring chance from the left point that resulted in the game-tying rebound goal. Denver scored once more to seal the victory.

For Epperson, the season marked an impressive college debut. The freshman finished fourth on his team in goals during the regular season and earned a spot on Denver's second forward line, an achievement at one of college hockey's powerhouse programs.

McMorrow brought championship experience to his freshman campaign. He nearly won a Clark Cup with Waterloo in the USHL the previous season, ranking tied for sixth in playoff scoring. He also represented Team USA at the 2026 World Junior Championships before adding an NCAA title to his resume.

Why This Inspires

Reeder's championship carries special meaning. He played in last year's Frozen Four but watched his team fall short in the semifinals. This time, the sophomore forward helped finish the job, posting 32 points during the regular season and ranking fourth on the team in scoring.

All three players are expected to return to Denver next season in expanded roles. They'll also attend Kings Development Camp this summer for the first time together, arriving as national champions ready to take the next step toward their NHL dreams.