NHL Draft: UMass’ development reputation bolstered by 4 more draft picks

The cycle has become favorable for the UMass hockey program. NHL programs like the Minutemen’s success developing professional players making teams more likely to take a chance on drafting a guy from Greg Carvel’s program.

Recruits see players drafted from UMass and are more likely to want to sign there.

MA only. 21+. New users and first wager only. Must register with eligible promo code. Bet amount of qualifying wager returned only if wager is settled as a loss. Maximum additional Bonus Bet of $1,500. Bonus Bet must be used within 14 days of receipt. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Void where prohibited. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? If you or a loved one is experiencing problems with gambling, please call 1-800-327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org for 24/7 support.

• Mobile sports betting is live in Massachusetts on Caesars. Get started with a $1,250 bonus bet.

The Minutemen had four future players selected in the NHL Draft on Thursday. Three - goalie Michael Hrabal, forwards Aydar Suniev and Nicholas VanTassell — will be on campus this fall, while the fourth - defenseman Larry Keenan - will arrive later.

“We’ve earned that reputation. I think that’s why we’ve gotten a lot of kids drafted,” UMass coach Greg Carvel said. “NHL teams say ‘Oh, he’s going to UMass, they do a good job there. He’s going to get better. We’ll take a chance on him.” It helps in recruiting. We have a reputation of being a good development program. It helps us attract players and helps them get drafted. Advisors are very careful to send their players to programs where they think their players are going to be challenged, pushed and treated the right way and developed.”

Here’s a look at the four picks:

Michael Hrabal, No. 38 to the Arizona Coyotes — Being picked 38th overall made him the second-highest Minuteman ever taken behind Cale Makar. He passed Scott Morrow, who was taken at No. 40.

Aydar Suniev, No. 80 to the Calgary Flames — The Russia native, who played for the Penticton Vees of the BCHL, is projected to be a key offensive contributor for UMass.

Larry Keenan, No. 117 to the Detroit Red Wings — Keenen will head to Penticton for a least one more season before eventually enrolling at UMass.

Nicholas VanTassell, No. 215 to Ottawa Senators — The Green Bay Gamblers standout from New Jersey gives UMass size and potential scoring ability.