Sacha Boisvert’s hands have always been a talking point - just not usually like this.
The Chicago Blackhawks’ first-round pick from the 2024 NHL Draft, now a sophomore at Boston University, brought some unexpected fireworks to the college hockey stage Friday night. Known for his scoring touch and, yes, his boxing pedigree (his father owns a gym back in Quebec), Boisvert reminded everyone that his hands can do more than just dangle defenders.
Midway through BU’s game against UMass Lowell, Boisvert and UMass Lowell senior Connor Eddy dropped the gloves in a rare college hockey fight - and this wasn’t just a quick scuffle. Both players threw with intent, going toe-to-toe in a flurry that had two officials scrambling to intervene.
The refs tried to break it up early, but Boisvert and Eddy weren’t finished. They kept swinging, delivering one of the more intense scraps you’ll see in the NCAA ranks.
Now, let’s be clear: fighting in college hockey isn’t just frowned upon - it’s flat-out illegal. The rulebook is strict.
Drop the gloves, and you’re immediately hit with a five-minute major, tossed from the game, and suspended for at least one more. That’s exactly what happened here.
Neither Boisvert nor Eddy suited up for the rematch on Saturday.
BU head coach Jay Pandolfo kept things close to the vest when asked about the incident after Saturday’s game.
“I’m not going to comment now, we’re past it,” Pandolfo said. “We’re just moving forward now. We’re just waiting to see what Hockey East says about it, but it’s over, it’s last night.”
Whether this leads to further discipline from the conference remains to be seen. But what’s certain is this: Boisvert didn’t wait for the NHL to show off the edge in his game. While scouts have long talked about his physical tools and NHL-ready frame, this was a different kind of showcase - one that’ll stick in the minds of fans, coaches, and maybe a few future opponents.
College hockey doesn’t see many fights, which is part of what made this one stand out. And when you consider Boisvert’s background - the son of a boxing coach, a player with a reputation for toughness - it’s not entirely surprising that when things got heated, he didn’t back down.
There’s no doubt the Blackhawks are watching closely. Boisvert’s development at BU is about more than point production. It’s about maturing into a complete player - one who brings skill, grit, and, clearly, a willingness to stand his ground when things get chippy.
Friday night was a reminder: Sacha Boisvert is more than just a prospect with potential. He’s a player with presence.