One of Minnesota’s top goaltending talents is staying home. Grand Rapids native Carter Casey has committed to play college hockey at the University of Minnesota, adding a premier in-state talent to the Gophers’ future crease.
At 6’2″, Casey offers the complete package between the pipes, size, athleticism, and composure, making him one of the most exciting netminders in the country. With a strong résumé at both the high school and junior levels, Casey is widely considered a top goaltending prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft.
Casey’s 2024–25 season showcased his elite ability. He split the year between Grand Rapids High School and the Waterloo Black Hawks (USHL), delivering clutch performances at both levels. In 20 games with the Thunderhawks, he went 10-9-1 with a 2.72 goals-against average and a .912 save percentage, before joining Waterloo late in the season and immediately making his mark, posting a 3-0-0 record with a 2.08 GAA and .920 SV% in the USHL regular season.
It was in the Clark Cup Playoffs where Casey elevated his game to another level. He backstopped Waterloo to the Championship Series, compiling a 10-3-2 postseason record, a 2.53 GAA, and a .918 save percentage, cementing his reputation as a goaltender who thrives under pressure. This isn’t new for Casey, his clutch gene has been evident for years. He led Grand Rapids Bantam AA to the State Tournament in 2023, then helped Grand Rapids High School reach the Minnesota State Tournament in 2024.
While Casey recently signed a WHL Scholarship & Development Agreement with the Medicine Hat Tigers, his decision to commit to the University of Minnesota signals his future NCAA path. With his calm demeanor, technical polish, and winning pedigree, Carter Casey is a massive addition for the Gophers, and a name to watch leading up to the 2026 NHL Draft.