Top Defenseman To Look Out For In The 2024-2025 Season. - MN High School Hockey

As the 2025–2026 Minnesota high school hockey season approaches, several underclassmen defensemen have distinguished themselves with exceptional performances in the previous season. Here’s a look at five standout players from across the state to watch in the upcoming season:

Carson Scott – Hill-Murray Pioneers (Class 2A)

Class Year: Sophomore (10th Grade)
Height/Weight: 6’3″, 195 lbs
Shoots: Left
2024–25 Stats: 28 GP, 2 G, 10 A, 12 PTS

Carson Scott grown this season as a strong presence on the blue line for the Hill-Murray Pioneers. Standing at an imposing 6’3″ and weighing 195 pounds, Scott uses his size against offenses to protect his zone. Over 28 games, he contributed 2 goals and 10 assists, showcasing his ability to support offensive plays while maintaining his defensive responsibilities.

Scott’s strengths were notable in Hill-Murray’s dominant 9–1 victory over Mahtomedi, where he recorded three assists, demonstrating his vision and playmaking skills from the defensive end.

As he enters his junior year, Scott is set to continue his development and leadership, providing a strong backbone for the Pioneers’ defense.

Ben Geiger – Northfield Raiders (Class 1A)

Class Year: Sophomore (10th Grade)
Height/Weight: 6’2″, 150 lbs
Shoots: Right
2024–25 Stats: 30 GP, 22 G, 39 A, 61 PTS
Achievements: 2025-26 U.S. National U17 Team

Ben Geiger has been a cornerstone for the Northfield Raiders, shown consistency and strength on the blue line. In the 2024–25 season, he kept an impressive offensive output, recording 61 points over 30 games, including 13 power-play goals and 15 power-play assists. His ability to contribute significantly to both the defensive and offensive aspects of the game has been instrumental in the Raiders’ competitive performance.

Notably, Geiger showcased his skills in the Section 1A final against Northern Lakes, where he tallied a goal and two assists in a 4–0 victory, propelling Northfield to the state tournament. His agility and quick decision-making have consistently kept the Raiders in contention, even against formidable opponents.

Luke Christopherson – Two Rivers Warriors (Class 1A)

Class Year: Freshman (9th Grade)
Height/Weight: 6’1″, 154 lbs
Shoots: Left
2024–25 Stats: 27 GP, 21 G, 23 A, 44 PTS

At just 15 years old, Luke Christopherson has emerged as a dynamic force on the blue line for the Two Rivers Warriors. In the 2024–25 season, he led all defensemen with 21 goals and 44 points over 27 games, ranking second on the team in scoring. His offensive strength, combined with his defensive power, shows his versatility as a two-way defenseman.

Christopherson’s game is shown by his exceptional skating, high hockey IQ, and ability to transition play from defense to offense. His quickness and edge work allow him to skate effectively in tight situations, while his accurate passes power breakouts and create scoring opportunities.

His impact was shown in games where his absence from the ice was noticed; in a matchup against South St. Paul, the Warriors struggled to move the puck efficiently without him, highlighting his significance to the team’s performance.

Recognizing his talent and potential, the Portland Winterhawks of the Western Hockey League signed Christopherson to a WHL Scholarship & Development Agreement in March 2025. This milestone reflects his status as one of the top young defensemen in the country.

As he continues to develop, Christopherson is set to be a cornerstone for the Warriors’ defense and a player to watch in Minnesota’s Class 1A hockey scene.

Chase Nadeau – Andover Huskies (Class 2A)

Class Year: Junior (11th Grade)
Position: Defenseman
Shoots: Left
2024–25 Stats: 27 GP 5 G 25 A 30 PTS

Chase Nadeau has been a cornerstone of the Andover Huskies’ defensive lineup. Known for his disciplined play and high hockey IQ, Nadeau consistently demonstrates an ability to read the game effectively, making smart decisions that contribute to the team’s overall performance.

As he enters his junior year, Nadeau is expected to continue his development and leadership on the ice, providing stability and experience to the Huskies’ defense. His commitment to responsible play and his ability to contribute offensively when needed make him a key player to watch in Minnesota’s Class 2A hockey scene.

Rylan Hanson – Elk River/Zimmerman Elks (Class 2A)

Class Year: Sophomore (10th Grade)
Position: Defenseman
Height/Weight: 6’1″ 175 lbs
Shoots: Right
2024–25 Stats: 27 GP, 2 G, 8 A 10 PTS
Rylan Hanson is recognized for his defensive capabilities and physical presence on the blue line. Standing at 6’2″, his size and reach make him a formidable opponent, and he’s expected to play a significant role in the Elks’ defensive strategies.

Joey Kotzian – Elk River/Zimmerman Elks (Class 2A)

Class Year: Junior (11th Grade)
Position: Defenseman
Height/Weight: 6’2″ 175 lbs
Shoots: Right
2024–25 Stats: 26 GP, 4 G, 9A, 13 PTS

Joey Kotzian brings a steady defensive presence to the Elks’ lineup. His ability to read the game and make smart plays under pressure contributes to the team’s overall defensive strength.

🏒 Wilson Lamberty – Minneapolis Boys Hockey (#37, Defenseman)

Class Year: Freshman (9th Grade)
Position: Defenseman
Shoots: Left
Height/Weight: 5’8″, 150 lbs
2024–25 Stats: 28 GP, 5 G, 14 A, 19 PTS, 3 PPG, 5 PPA
Notable Honors: Recognized as one of the top freshmen in Class A

As a freshman, Wilson Lamberty made an immediate impact on the Minneapolis Boys High School Hockey team. His offensive contributions from the blue line were strong, tallying 19 points over 28 games, including 3 power-play goals and 5 power-play assists. Lamberty’s ability to read the game and make smart plays under pressure showed his maturity beyond his years.Follow the Puck is Minnesota Hockey

In a notable performance, Lamberty scored his first varsity goal during a 7–1 victory over Irondale, marking a memorable moment in his debut season.

Throughout the season, Lamberty’s consistent play and leadership on the ice earned him recognition as one of the top freshmen in Class A. His playmaking was key in Minneapolis’s strong campaign, culminating in a 17–7–3 record and a berth in the Section 2A championship game.

As he progresses into his sophomore year, Lamberty is set to continue his development and remain a key figure on the Minneapolis blue line. His performance in the 2024–25 season sets a solid foundation for what promises to be a promising high school hockey career.