NHL Draft Diaries: Equipment Edition – Gabriel Perreault

Certain names might carry more weight than others in the world of NHL prospects, based on a few factors. Gabriel Perreault, the burgeoning talent from the Boston College Eagles Men's Hockey team and New York Rangers top prospect, is one such name. The son of former NHL player Yanic Perreault, Gabriel has been making waves in college hockey this season with his exceptional skill and promising potential.

Drafted 23rd overall by the New York Rangers at the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, Perreault was earmarked for success early on. With a pedigree that includes being part of the US National Team Development Program, the expectations were high. Yet, Gabriel has not only met but some may even say he is exceeding expectations during his freshman season at Boston College.

With 50 points in 30 games this year, Perreault has been a standout performer for the Eagles, leading the team alongside teammates Cutter Gauthier and Will Smith. The three of them, make up the current Top 3 leaders in points across all of Division I NCAA hockey. As the team sits atop of the USCHO Division I PairWise Rankings, all eyes are on them as they head into the NCAA tournament, and potentially into this year’s Frozen Four in Minnesota as well. 

While his on-ice performance speaks for itself, Perreault's equipment choices have also garnered attention. He would be joining a predominantly “Warrior using” team at Boston College based on the program’s partnership with the well-known hockey company. There were questions about whether he would continue using sticks from his preferred CCM brand or potentially try something new. However, Perreault's loyalty to CCM has remained steadfast, as we have yet to see him play a game as an Eagle without the Ribcor Trigger 8 Pro model twig. Additionally, he has opted for the CCM JetSpeed FT6 Pro skates on his feet. The rest of his equipment is rounded out by Warrior, given the previously mentioned agreement between company and program. He currently wears Warrior branded pants, an Alpha One helmet, and Covert QRE gloves. 

This level of production from Perreault would likely suggest that he plans to stick with CCM sticks and skates for as long as he is able. With his stock rising as a top prospect for the New York Rangers, perhaps there is a great opportunity for player and brand to reach an agreement when the time is right. Perreault would have the option to continue using his preferred equipment, and CCM would be able to promote their gear in a large market like New York City.

This is for sure looking ahead, but Perreault's future definitely seems to be heading for the brighter side. With a promising collegiate career already underway and the potential for a successful transition to the NHL, he is poised to make a significant impact on the sport.

For now we have the remainder of his freshman season to look forward to, and likely his sophomore season as well in the NCAA ranks. We wouldn’t say it’s likely that we see any major equipment shuffling from him, but in this game, it is never completely out of the question.