Bemidji Defenseman Landon Knott Selected for USA Hockey National Team Development Program Under-17 Squad

Bemidji High School sophomore defenseman Landon Knott has achieved a milestone that represents the pinnacle of American youth hockey development, earning selection to USA Hockeys prestigious National Team Development Program for the 2026-27 season as part of the Under-17 Team in Plymouth, Michigan.

Knott joins an exclusive group of just 23 American-born players selected from the 2010 birth year following rigorous evaluation processes that culminated in March assessment camps. The 6-foot-1, 165-pound left-shot defenseman distinguished himself among hundreds of elite prospects competing for limited roster spots in the nations premier development pathway.

The March evaluation camp highlighted the outstanding depth in the 2010 birth year, said Rod Braceful, director of player personnel for the NTDP. Making final selections was a challenge given the level of talent. We extend our appreciation to all the youth organizations and coaches across the country for their contribution and development of these players.

Knott productive season with the Bemidji Lumberjacks featured five goals and 10 assists across 26 games while primarily serving in a defensive defenseman role. His statistical output reflects his well-rounded skill set and ability to contribute offensively despite shouldering significant defensive responsibilities for his high school team.

The NTDP represents a two-year residency commitment that will see Knott relocate to USA Hockey Arena in Plymouth, where he will train and compete at the highest levels of amateur hockey while pursuing academic excellence. The program has established itself as the premier development pipeline for future NHL talent and Olympic competitors.

Participating teams in the United States Hockey League, the only Tier I junior hockey league in America, will provide Knott with elite competition that mirrors professional hockey intensity. Additional matchups against select North American Hockey League and Minnesota Elite League opponents will further challenge his development trajectory.

The international component of NTDP participation adds crucial global experience, with the Under-17 Team competing in three international tournaments annually across North America and Europe. These competitions expose players to diverse playing styles and provide valuable cultural experiences that enhance both hockey and personal development.

Knott represents one of seven Minnesotans selected for the program, with two players coming from Section 8AA. Moorhead forward Joey Cullen, projected as a potential top selection in the 2028 NHL Draft, will join Knott in the prestigious program. Alexandria native Henry Buttweiler, who competed for Detroit Honeybaked 15O, also earned selection.

Other Minnesota representatives include Forest Lakes Maverick McKinnon, who played for St. Thomas Academy during 2025-26, Minnetonkas Dean Stevens, Eden Praires RJ Thompson, and Minnetristas Mason Schemenauer. The inclusion of Brooks Suter, son of 20-year NHL veteran Ryan Suter, adds notable hockey pedigree to the incoming class.

The NTDP success stories provide compelling evidence of the programs effectiveness in developing professional hockey talent. Over 100 NTDP alumni competed in the NHL during the current season, with 17 of them capturing gold medals for Team USA at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Historical data demonstrates the programs remarkable track record, having produced 432 NHL draft picks throughout its existence, including 103 first-round selections. These statistics underscore the significance of Knott achievement and the potential trajectory his hockey career could follow.

Braceful expressed enthusiasm about the incoming class as the program enters its landmark 30th season. We are excited and couldnt be happier that this group of 23 will be the next NTDP class as we head into our 30th season, he stated, emphasizing the programs continued commitment to developing Americas finest young hockey talent.

For Knott and his family, the selection represents validation of years of dedication to hockey excellence while opening doors to opportunities that extend far beyond the sport itself. The academic and leadership development components of NTDP participation create well-rounded individuals prepared for success in multiple life endeavors.

The transition from high school hockey in northern Minnesota to elite national team competition represents a significant step forward in Knott development journey, positioning him among Americas most promising young defensemen as he pursues dreams of professional and international hockey success.