The highly anticipated 2025 Men`s Frozen Four tournament is set to feature a mix of seasoned contenders and fresh faces, promising thrilling semifinal matchups between familiar rivals and first-time opponents.

The semifinals are scheduled for Thursday at 5 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. ET at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, with the championship game taking place on Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

Denver Pioneers (31-11-1)

Journey to Frozen Four: Denver, as the No. 3 seed in the Manchester Regional, showcased their dominance by defeating Providence 5-1 and then top-seeded Boston College 3-1, in a rematch of the previous year`s national championship.

Key Stats: A victory would mark Denver`s 11th national title, potentially their fourth set of back-to-back championships and third title within four years. The Pioneers boast a consistent record of at least 30 wins for the fourth consecutive season. Standout players Jack Devine and Aidan Thompson lead the nation in points, while Zeev Buium tops all defensemen in points.

Path to Victory:

Relentless Back Pressure: Denver`s forwards excel at applying pressure through the neutral zone, disrupting opponents` offensive transitions and enabling the defense to force turnovers, making them incredibly tough to defeat.

Exceptional Special Teams: With an impressive 30% power play efficiency, Denver`s special teams can be a decisive advantage in tight, single-elimination games. Their power play is characterized by dynamic movement and multiple scoring threats.

Player Spotlight: Zeev Buium. A future NHL talent, Buium`s elite skating, puck handling, and vision allow him to control games. He thrives under pressure and is expected to play significant minutes in the Frozen Four.

Western Michigan Broncos (32-7-1)

Journey to Frozen Four: Western Michigan, the top seed in the Fargo Regional, overcame Minnesota State 2-1 in double overtime, thanks to Grant Slukynsky`s goal, and then defeated UMass 2-1.

Key Stats: The Broncos are currently riding an eight-game winning streak and are recognized for their balanced play, averaging close to 4 goals per game while maintaining a strong defense, allowing just over 2 goals per game. Goaltender Hampton Slukynsky has an impressive goals-against average of 0.82 in the tournament.

Path to Victory:

Deep Forward Lines: Western Michigan`s strength lies in its four forward lines, capable of maintaining high performance and wearing down opponents throughout the game, starting with their matchup against Denver.

Goaltending Excellence: Freshman goalie Hampton Slukynsky`s outstanding performance, including 28 saves in each Fargo game, will be crucial for the Broncos to contend for the championship.

Player Spotlight: Liam Valente. Valente`s impactful play in the Fargo regional, contributing to three of the team’s four goals, and his powerful shot will be vital against Denver and their goalie Matt Davis.

Boston University Terriers (23-13-2)

Journey to Frozen Four: BU, seeded No. 2 in the Toledo Regional, dominated Ohio State 8-3 and secured their third consecutive Frozen Four appearance with a 3-2 overtime win against Cornell.

Key Stats: Coach Jay Pandolfo`s perfect 10-0 record in NCAA regional games as both coach and player highlights his tournament success. Brothers Quinn and Cole Hutson are the team`s leading scorers, with Cole standing out in the NCAA tournament.

Path to Victory:

Offensive Rush: BU’s dynamic offense thrives on creating plays during rushes. Their speed and quick transitions have been key to their tournament success.

Defensive Solidity: Improved defense around their net, as demonstrated against Cornell, combined with goalie Mikhail Yegorov`s ability to make initial saves, enhances BU`s championship chances.

Player Spotlight: Cole Hutson. Hutson`s exceptional talent and offensive instincts draw comparisons to his brother Lane. His ability to shine in high-pressure situations makes him a player to watch in the Frozen Four.

Penn State Nittany Lions (22-13-4)

Journey to Frozen Four: Penn State, seeded No. 4 in Allentown, overcame an initial setback against Maine to win 5-1 and advanced to their first Frozen Four by defeating UConn 3-2 in overtime.

Key Stats: Penn State’s strong turnaround since January, with a 14-3-3 record, and their status as the first No. 4 regional seed in the Frozen Four since 2019 showcase their resilience. Aiden Fink leads the team in points, while Charlie Cerrato is close to breaking the freshman assist record.

Path to Victory:

Maintain Momentum: Penn State aims to continue their underdog journey from a slow Big Ten start, leveraging the energy from their home regional crowd into the Frozen Four in St. Louis.

Utilize Team Speed: Penn State`s fast starts in regional games, overwhelming opponents with speed through the neutral zone, will be crucial against Boston University.

Player Spotlight: Charlie Cerrato. Freshman center Cerrato`s playmaking ability, particularly with wingers Matt DiMarsico and JJ Wiebusch, has been instrumental in Penn State`s offensive success, highlighted by their overtime victory against UConn.