Penn State men’s hockey defenseman and captain Christian Berger has been ruled out for the remainder of the regular season, head coach Guy Gadowsky announced Monday afternoon. He broke his wrist during the third period in Saturday’s 4-2 victory over then-No. 14 Michigan.

Gadowsky said the injury does not require surgery and the long-term prognosis is “great,” but that he will indeed be out for “at least the regular season.”

Berger, a senior from St. Louis, Missouri, had two goals and four assists for six points this season. His most recent goal was against Michigan State last month, and his last assist was against Army a week prior.

The 6’0,” 195-pound defenseman has nine goals and 33 assists for 42 points over his four-year Penn State career. He has not publicly announced whether or not he intends to return for his fifth year of eligibility.

In the meantime, Gadowsky mentioned Carter Schade as a candidate to receive increased playing time during Berger’s absence. He cited the sophomore’s toughness and ability as a left-shooting defenseman as strong aspects of his game.

Penn State will host its final home series of the season against Wisconsin on Friday and Saturday.

About the Author

Nolan Wick

Nolan wrote for Onward State from 2021 until 2025. He mainly covered Penn State football, men’s hockey, and baseball, and he was also an associate editor. A Silver Spring, Maryland, native, Nolan is an avid D.C. sports and Liverpool fan. You can follow him on Twitter @nolan_wick.

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