ASU gets boost with return of key players

The Arizona State hockey team recently got a big boost for next season with the announced return of four key players.

Lukas Sillinger, Ty Jackson, Dylan Jackson and Benji Eckerle announced that they would return for their fifth and final seasons of college eligibility in 2024-25, giving the Sun Devils some very good news as the team joins the National Collegiate Hockey Conference.

Last season, Sillinger scored 48 total points (an ASU single-season record) in 38 games on the ice, tallying 11 goals and 37 assists (also an Arizona State single-season record). He was a nominee for the Hobey Baker Award.

Eckerle had five goals and 14 assists for ASU last season. Ty Jackson and Dylan Jackson had their seasons shortened by injuries, with Ty recording six goals and 12 assists and Dylan scoring seven goals and having four assists.

ASU coach Greg Powers raved about the return of the four players for his program next season.

“Bringing back a line that when intact was absolutely electric is huge as we head into the NCHC,” Powers told ASU’s official athletic site. “While Dylan and Ty had tough years from an injury standpoint, when they were healthy they were by far two of our best offensive players. Returning a 48point player in Lukas speaks for itself. I genuinely believe they will be one of the most dynamic lines in college hockey. Benji Eckerle is the glue to our lineup and his speed and tenacity will be invaluable in conference play. We couldn’t be more thrilled to have them all back for their fifth years of college hockey.”

Interestingly, Sillinger and the Jacksons skated on the same line for ASU early last season, recording 34 points in their 12 games together.

The Sun Devils went 24-8-6 last season.