Joey Muldowney, Jake Richard returning to UConn next season

Joey Muldowney and Jake Richard will return to UConn next season after their breakout sophomore campaigns, head coach Mike Cavanaugh told the UConn Hockey Hub. Both players were sixth round picks in the 2022 NHL Draft and could’ve turned pro, but decided to continue their development with the Huskies.

Muldowney, a San Jose Sharks prospect, had long indicated that he’d be back in Storrs for another year. As for Richard, Elite Prospects reported the Buffalo Sabres were “making a strong effort” to sign him but he ultimately decided to remain at UConn. The Jacksonville, Florida native will become a free agent in August 2026, so he could have his pick of NHL offers if he puts up big numbers once again.

The pair helped the Huskies to the best season in program history with record-setting campaigns. Muldowney finished second nationally with 29 goals and also put up 47 points — both of which set UConn’s Division I Era single season records. He recorded three hat tricks on the year, including the first in a Hockey East Semifinal since 2006. Muldowney was named a CCM/ACHA Second Team All-American.

Meanwhile, Richard put up 28 assists and 43 points — both of which were second-most in the Huskies’ Hockey East Era behind fellow linemates Hudson Schandor and Muldowney, respectively. He totaled seven helpers in the conference tournament, tied for second-most all-time.

With Muldowney and Richard officially back in the mix, UConn’s 2025-26 roster is starting to come into focus.

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