NHL Draft Diaries: Equipment Edition - Brodie Ziemer

Brodie Ziemer, a native of Carver, Minnesota, has quickly become one of the most intriguing prospects in the Buffalo Sabres organization. Selected in the third round of the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, Ziemer is a playmaking winger who has consistently showcased his offensive prowess. With 43 assists and 70 points in 61 games during the 2023-2024 season with the U18 USA National Team Development Program (NTDP), it's clear why the Sabres saw potential in the young forward. However, before he dons the Sabres’ blue and gold, Ziemer will be honing his skills with one of the most prestigious college hockey programs in the country: the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers.

 

Ziemer’s performance with the NTDP highlighted his ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. His 43 assists last season are a testament to his vision on the ice, his ability to read plays, and his skill in threading passes through tight spaces. As a winger, Ziemer has shown that he can be a dual threat—capable of scoring himself but more than willing to set up others. This playmaking ability is precisely what the University of Minnesota will be looking to tap into as he transitions into the collegiate level. The Gophers have a storied history of developing NHL talent, and Ziemer is poised to be their next success story.

 

While Ziemer’s on-ice performance is undoubtedly his most significant asset, his equipment choices also provide insight into his development and preferences as a player. During his time with the NTDP, Ziemer was seen wearing True gloves, a requirement due to the program’s partnership with the brand. However, it’s clear that his personal loyalty lies with Bauer, as evidenced by his choice of Vapor HyperLite 2 skates and a HyperLite 2 stick throughout the season.

 

This preference for Bauer equipment could have an interesting twist as Ziemer transitions to the University of Minnesota. The Gophers, like many top-tier collegiate programs, have a partnership with CCM, meaning that most players on the team use CCM gear. However, as is common in such programs, there are exemptions. Ziemer has confirmed with GearGeek.com that he will continue using Bauer sticks in the upcoming season.

 

“Yes, I am using Bauer. I like how (their sticks) feel. They have good pop, good graphics, and overall they’re good sticks.” Ziemer said via an Instagram message. 

 

More specifically he’ll likely be promoting the Nexus Tracer model, which he recently was seen with at the World Junior Summer Showcase. 

 

While it’s unlikely that Brodie Ziemer will join the Buffalo Sabres for at least a few more seasons, his time with the University of Minnesota will be crucial for his development. The Golden Gophers are known for their rigorous training and competitive environment, both of which will help Ziemer refine his game. Sabres fans should keep a close eye on his progress, as his ability to adjust to the collegiate level and further develop his playmaking skills will be key indicators of his future success in the NHL.

 

Ziemer’s journey from Carver, Minnesota, to the NHL is just beginning, and his time with the Golden Gophers will be a vital chapter in that story. As he continues to develop, both on and off the ice, his choices—whether in equipment or in play—will shape the player he becomes. For now, all eyes will be on his first season in maroon and gold, as the hockey world watches to see how this promising prospect evolves into a future NHL star.