Gophers Men’s Hockey Team Adds Two Promising Forwards to Roster
John “LJ” Mooney and Hayden Reid Commit to the University of Minnesota
The University of Minnesota’s men’s hockey team has secured two verbal commitments from highly talented forwards, John “LJ” Mooney and Hayden Reid. These additions are expected to strengthen the team’s roster in the coming seasons. Mooney, a cousin of former Gophers star Logan Cooley, hails from West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, while Reid, a Canadian player, decommitted from Colgate to join the Gophers. Let’s take a closer look at the backgrounds and potential impact of these two promising players.
John “LJ” Mooney: A Rising Star with Strong Family Ties
John “LJ” Mooney, a 16-year-old center from West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, has recently committed to the University of Minnesota. Mooney is currently part of the U.S. National Team Development Program in Plymouth, Michigan, where he plays for the Under-17 National Team. Standing at 5-6 and weighing 146 pounds, Mooney has shown exceptional skills and potential on the ice.
Before joining the national program, Mooney spent three seasons with the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite Program. This is the same program where his cousin, Logan Cooley, played before being selected as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2022 NHL draft by the Arizona Coyotes. Mooney’s impressive performance during the 2022-23 season, with 33 goals and 47 assists in 54 games for the Under-16 AAA team, caught the attention of college recruiters.
Mooney’s commitment to the Gophers is a testament to his determination and ambition to follow in his cousin’s footsteps. He is expected to join the team for the 2026-27 season, bringing his exceptional skills and hockey lineage to the University of Minnesota.
Hayden Reid: A Canadian Talent Who Chooses the Gophers
Hayden Reid, a 17-year-old center/left winger from Orono, Ontario, has made the decision to commit to the University of Minnesota after previously committing to Colgate. Reid currently plays for the Sioux Falls Stampede in the U.S. Hockey League, where he has showcased his skills and versatility on the ice.
Standing at 5-11 and weighing 181 pounds, Reid possesses the physical attributes that make him a formidable player. In the 2022-23 season, he played for the Leamington Flyers of the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League, recording an impressive 16 goals and 24 assists in 47 games.
Reid’s decision to decommit from Colgate and join the Gophers demonstrates his belief in the program’s potential and the opportunities it offers. He is projected to join the University of Minnesota for the 2025-26 season, where he will bring his talent and determination to contribute to the team’s success.
The University of Minnesota’s men’s hockey team has secured two valuable commitments from talented forwards, John “LJ” Mooney and Hayden Reid. Mooney, with his strong family ties to former Gophers star Logan Cooley, and Reid, a Canadian player who chose the Gophers over Colgate, are set to make significant contributions to the team in the coming seasons. Their skills, determination, and potential will undoubtedly enhance the Gophers’ roster and further strengthen their position as a top contender in collegiate hockey. As fans eagerly await their arrival, the future looks bright for the University of Minnesota’s men’s hockey team.
