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New Gophers coach Brett Larson looks for structure and skill
Larson is trying to stabilize a roster that went 11-22-3, with a new goalie needed and several defensive departures ahead of 2026-27.
- In late March, the University of Minnesota introduced Brett Larson as the new head coach of the Gophers men's hockey team, replacing Bob Motzko after the program and former coach agreed to a mutual separation.
- The Gophers finished the 2025-26 season with an 11-22-3 record, marking the program's worst performance since 1972, prompting the coaching change as the fan base seeks its first NCAA title since 2003.
- After backup goalie Nathan Airey entered the transfer portal, Larson must address a porous back end by exploring the transfer portal and Canadian major junior leagues—two areas his predecessor did not prioritize.
- Blending defensive structure learned under Scott Sandelin at UMD with offensive creativity, Larson aims to maximize existing skill. "There's a lot of skill on this hockey team," he said.
- Leveraging eight years of recruiting experience in Minnesota, Larson adjusts to the 10,000-seat 3M Arena at Mariucci and high expectations, hoping to maintain high-profile nonconference rivalries.
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New Gophers coach Brett Larson looks for structure and skill
MINNEAPOLIS — For anyone who has known Brett Larson since the days he was a star prep defenseman at Duluth’s Denfeld High School, his new look is a notable departure. The colors of his maroon and gold pullover are certainly familiar. They were his shades of choice in high school and as a college standout on the east side of his hometown when he played for the University of Minnesota Duluth. Also, the work clothes he would put on when helping rec…
·Cherokee County, United States
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources12
Leaning Left0Leaning Right6Center3Last UpdatedBias Distribution67% Right
Bias Distribution
- 67% of the sources lean Right
67% Right
C 33%
R 67%
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