Landon DuPont names Hughes, Makar, Slavin as defensive influences
Landon DuPont, the top prospect for the 2027 NHL Entry Draft, will begin his college career at the University of Michigan next week. He said he studies Quinn Hughes and Cale Makar for their offensive skill, as well as Jaccob Slavin and Jake Sanderson for their defensive stick work. DuPont added that improving his gap control and stick placement will be important against bigger college players.
Landon DuPont, a 17-year-old Calgary native, is set to begin his NCAA career at Michigan next week. He is considered the top prospect for the 2027 NHL Entry Draft after spending two seasons with the Everett Silvertips in the Western Hockey League.
During those WHL seasons, DuPont totaled 133 points, including 73 in 2025-26, helping Everett win a league title and reach the Memorial Cup. He has said he watches Quinn Hughes and Cale Makar for offense, plus Jaccob Slavin and Jake Sanderson for how they use their sticks defensively.
DuPont’s move to Michigan and his status as a top 2027 prospect could increase attention on NCAA hockey as a development route. NHL scouts, Michigan fans, and young defensemen may follow his adjustment to older, stronger competition. His comments about gap control and stick placement may also shape how aspiring players and coaches discuss defensive fundamentals, though his long-term impact will depend on how his college season unfolds.