Pregame: Merrimack adds Justin Gill ahead of rematch with Lowell

NORTH ANDOVER — Merrimack will open its home schedule tonight against UMass Lowell, and the Warriors’ lineup will feature a notable newcomer. Justin Gill has officially joined the roster after being cleared by the NCAA this week.

Gill spent last season split between two pro levels — appearing in 35 games with the Bridgeport Islanders (AHL) and producing nearly a point per game for the Worcester Railers (ECHL). A fifth-round selection of the New York Islanders in the 2023 NHL Draft, Gill becomes the latest former pro to earn NCAA eligibility, following similar cases in recent years at Bemidji State, Quinnipiac, and Arizona State.

I wrote last week about this emerging trend of players with professional experience receiving clearance to return to the college game. Gill’s addition reinforces that movement — and gives Merrimack an immediate boost in experience and offensive creativity.

Gill will skate tonight alongside freshman Joey Henneberry and sophomore Trevor Hoskin. The rest of the Warriors’ lineup is listed below.

Game Details

Puck Drop: 7:00 p.m. ET
Where: North Andover, Mass.
Venue: Lawler Arena (2,549)
TV/Stream: Watch (ESPN+) » Watch (INTL)

Tonight’s Lineup