BUFFALO, N.Y. — Landon Nycz’s skating ability has become one of the defining traits that has elevated his profile heading into the 2026 NHL Draft. The University of Massachusetts defenseman has earned praise from coaches and scouts alike, thanks to a combination of elite mobility, maturity, and relentless work ethic.
UMass head coach Greg Carvel, who previously coached Colorado Avalanche star Cale Makar during his collegiate career, believes Nycz possesses some of the best skating ability he has seen.
“His feet are what stand out immediately,” Carvel said. “He’s a driven player, very focused and serious. He handled a lot of expectations as a freshman and learned a great deal. I think he’s positioned for a tremendous sophomore season.”
Ranked No. 55 among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting, Nycz has built his game around strong two-way play. His skating allows him to impact the game offensively while remaining effective in transition and on the defensive side of the puck.
The Detroit native credits much of his approach to the influence of his father, Brian, who played quarterback at Central Michigan University. That background helped instill a daily commitment to improvement and a competitive mindset.
“Having that edge and showing up every day ready to work is important,” Nycz said. “It doesn’t take much motivation. You just keep pushing yourself and continue getting better.”
Despite being one of the youngest defensemen in NCAA Division I hockey this season, Nycz quickly proved he belonged at the collegiate level. His poise and ability to compete against older players earned him regular minutes with the Minutemen.
David Gregory, associate director of NHL Central Scouting, believes Nycz’s competitiveness and skating will continue to serve him well as he develops.
“He plays hard and handles pressure well,” Gregory said. “As he gains experience and continues to understand the game at higher levels, he has the potential to become a very effective player.”
Nycz finished his freshman season with one goal and two assists in 35 games. Although the offensive numbers were modest, he became more comfortable as the season progressed and eventually earned additional opportunities, including special teams assignments.
Carvel believes the statistics don’t fully tell the story.
“There were a lot of chances that didn’t turn into points,” Carvel said. “But you could see his confidence growing and his ability to make plays with the puck.”
Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 201 pounds, Nycz says the defensive side of his game experienced the most growth during his freshman campaign. He also wants to continue adding a more physical element to his game.
According to Carvel, that evolution began to emerge late in the season.
“He started showing more commitment to defending physically while still relying on his skating and stick positioning,” Carvel said. “I think you’ll see another level offensively, but also a stronger physical presence, which is important for the next level.”
Nycz’s hockey journey began early. He first stepped onto the ice before the age of three and transitioned from forward to defense when he was 12 years old. By age 15, after reaching the USHL, he realized a professional career was a realistic goal.
Growing up in Michigan, Nycz followed the Detroit Red Wings, but when studying NHL defensemen today, he models his game after Colorado Avalanche defenseman Devon Toews and Montreal Canadiens blueliner Mike Matheson.
Scouts see similarities in those comparisons, pointing to their ability to defend, move the puck efficiently, and contribute offensively when opportunities arise.
With one NCAA season behind him, Nycz enters the offseason focused on adding strength and preparing for an even bigger role with UMass next year.
Carvel remains confident in his young defenseman.
“He’s the type of player you don’t worry about,” Carvel said. “He puts in the work and knows exactly where he wants to go. That’s comforting for any coach.”
