Brett Larson, the newly appointed head coach of Gophers hockey, has made significant strides in his first offseason, highlighted by the recent commitment of defenseman Bode Laylin. Laylin, who was previously committed to St. Thomas, announced his decision to join the University of Minnesota through a heartfelt Instagram post.
In his announcement, Laylin expressed his excitement and gratitude, stating, "I am extremely excited and honored to announce that I will be playing D1 Hockey for the University of Minnesota. I would like to thank God for this opportunity, as well as my family, friends, and coaches who have helped me along the way. #gogophers." This commitment is a notable addition to Larson's roster as he builds his team for the upcoming seasons.
Laylin, a 6-foot right-handed defenseman from St. Michael, Minnesota, is not only a promising player but also the son of Cory Laylin, a former Gophers player and an experienced coach. Cory Laylin has dedicated 18 years to coaching at various levels and was most recently an assistant coach at St. Thomas before joining the Gophers' staff this offseason. The familial connection adds a unique narrative to Bode's commitment, as it was long anticipated that he would follow in his father's footsteps.
In the 2026 NHL Draft, Bode Laylin was selected by the Calgary Flames with the 164th overall pick in the sixth round, underscoring his potential in the sport. Last season, he showcased his skills in the United States Hockey League (USHL) with the Tri-City Storm, where he recorded an impressive 38 points, including 11 goals and 27 assists, over 55 games. His performance has set high expectations for his upcoming season with the Everett Silvertips in the Western Hockey League (WHL), a league known for producing top-tier defensemen.
Looking ahead, Laylin is set to join the Gophers for the 2027-28 season, where he will have the opportunity to further develop his skills and contribute to a program with a rich history in collegiate hockey. As he transitions into this new chapter, Laylin will not only be playing for a prestigious university but will also be doing so under the guidance of his father, creating a compelling storyline for fans and supporters of Gophers hockey.
As the Gophers prepare for the upcoming season, the addition of Bode Laylin is a testament to the program's commitment to attracting top talent. With a strong foundation laid by Larson and his coaching staff, the Gophers are poised to make an impact in collegiate hockey, and Laylin's commitment is a significant step in that direction.
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