SLU Hockey Goalie Ben Kraws Inks Deal to Join Dallas Stars

On March 25, St. Lawrence University’s men’s ice hockey goalie Ben Kraws signed a one year, entry-level contract for the 2024-2025 season with the Dallas Stars. Kraws will be the second Skating Saint on the 2023-2024 season’s roster joining a team in the NHL, alongside sophomore Tomas Mazura, who was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in 2023. A fifth-year goalie, Kraws played a key role on the men’s ice hockey team this year and lead them to an appearance in the ECAC championship game. Among other successes, Kraws was nominated for the annual Hobey Baker Award.

“He gave us a chance at every game, and obviously carried us through playoffs really hard, and always gave us a shot to win, no matter what,” said Mason Kucenski, one of Kraws’ teammates this past season. Kucenski, a goalie and a first-year player, played with Kraws. He attested to Kraws’ strength and consistency between the pipes.

“Consistency is the biggest thing, and coach wants to know what he’s gonna get every night and be able to rely on you no matter what,” said Kucenski. “So I feel like he was probably as consistent as could be, starting like 97 percent of the games.” Throughout the season, Kraws boasted a .919 save percentage, a 2.49 goals-against average, as well as two regular season shutouts along with a third against nationally-ranked Quinnipiac during playoffs. Mike Gugin, director of hockey operations at St. Lawrence and a member of the coaching staff, agrees with Kucenski in regard to Kraws’ consistency. “Everything that he does, he does with a purpose,” said Gugin. “Whether it’s watching video, extra goalie sessions, every day he wanted to get better.

Gugin further explained this signing’s impact on St. Lawrence hockey. “With everybody that we do bring in that does want go pro, with the example that [Kraws] sets, it can really help set the table for all those other kids that are coming through,” stated Gugin. “It’s a testament to what the program can deliver to a lot of kids as well.” In Texas, Kraws will join former Skating Saint Gavin Bayreuther ’17.

When asked about Kraws’ time in Canton, Saints Head Coach Brent Brekke attested to the importance of having a calm, hard working presence in net. “There was never day of practice where we looked back as a coaching staff and said, ‘You know what, Ben was just there going through the motions,’” recounted Brekke. “That never happened, like ever. And that’s tough to do.” Brekke, like Gugin and Kucenski, noted on Kraws’ unwavering work ethic and drive to improve himself daily.

Brekke explained Kraws’ long journey prior to his arrival at St. Lawrence. Kraws played two years at Miami University in Ohio and two years at the University of Arizona before transferring to St. Lawrence to fulfill his fifth and final year of eligibility. “He’s a great story of perseverance,” said Brekke. “He was at Miami for two years, he was at Arizona State for two years, and he needed another change to get the opportunity where he can really be himself, and it worked out great for him with us.”

Kraws explained the changes that come with the transition from college hockey to professional hockey. “It’s a different lifestyle, for sure. It’s your full time job to be here and to perform and I’ve enjoyed it so far,” explained Kraws. “It’s been really good to meet the guys here.”

In retrospect, Kraws is grateful for his time at St. Lawrence. When asked about some of his fondest memories as a Saint, Kraws recounted the win on home ice versus rival Clarkson. “Beating Clarkson at home was a memorable game for me, having my first time with that rivalry,” remarked Kraws.

“Getting to experience it on the ice was an amazing opportunity for me, and I know our fans have so much passion. We definitely showed up for that game, it was really fun.”

Kraws is now looking ahead, with his sights set high in his new professional environment. However, he expressed gratitude towards the St. Lawrence hockey program and the community he has had here. “I’ve only been at St. Lawrence a year, but I’ve really enjoyed my time there. It’s been an amazing opportunity for me, and I’m really glad I picked St. Lawrence. It’ll be a special place to me forever.”