The NorthStar Knights are proud to recognize alumnus Lincoln Kuehne for becoming the first player in program history to receive an invitation to the NHL Draft Combine.
Kuehne, a defenseman who played for the NorthStar Knights during the 2022–23 season, earned the invitation following an outstanding year in the United States Hockey League with the Sioux City Musketeers. His development and success continue to highlight the growing impact and advancement pathway within the NorthStar program.
The NHL Draft Combine annually brings together many of the top draft-eligible players from around the world for interviews, medical evaluations, fitness testing, and meetings with NHL organizations ahead of the NHL Draft. This year’s combine featured 90 total players invited, including just 29 defensemen. Being selected as one of the invitees places Kuehne among the top NHL Draft prospects in his age group.
During the 2025–26 season, Kuehne established himself as one of the premier defensemen in the USHL, ultimately earning USHL Defenseman of the Year honors. His strong two-way play, skating ability, hockey IQ, and consistency throughout the season made him one of the league’s most impactful players on the blue line.
Following his junior career, Kuehne is committed to play NCAA Division I hockey at the University of Minnesota Duluth, continuing his development at one of the premier college hockey programs in the country.
The entire NorthStar Knights organization congratulates Lincoln and his family on this incredible accomplishment. His invitation to the NHL Draft Combine represents a historic milestone for the program and serves as an example of the opportunities available through hard work, dedication, and player development within NorthStar Hockey.