How was your summer? DU defenseman Blake Hillman‘s was pretty good.

The sophomore not only heard his name called during the NHL Entry Draft weekend, by the Chicago Blackhawks in the sixth round (173rd overall ), but the selection earned him an invitation to the Blackhawks’ prospects camp in July.

That came on the heels of a strong finish to the 2015-16 season for the 6-foot-1, 185-pounder. Hillman earned time on the second power-play unit and scored xx of his xx points in the second half of the season. He saved his best for the biggest stage, scoring four points, including the West Regional-winning goal, in the NCAA Tournament. That earned him the regional’s MVP award.

The individual accolades are nice, but Hillman’s focus is squarely on getting the Pioneers back to the Frozen Four. We fed him some sweet feeds a while back, and despite it being the offseason the Minnesota native hammered away as if he was on the PP.

What sort of summer activities do you enjoy?

I go golfing a lot and work out. I really like being on the lake – boating, swimming.

Do you have a favorite hockey player?

Defenseman John Carlson of the Washington Capitals (and Team USA for the World Cup of Hockey. I first noticed him on the U.S. World Junior team that won a gold medal in 2010. He scored the overtime winner. Ever since I’ve been paying attention to him, watching him play and trying to model my game after his.

Are you particular about any pieces of your gear?

If anything my stick. In junior after I taped it I made sure no one touched it.

Who is the funniest guy in the Pioneers locker room?

I’d have to say Troy Terry. If you meet him he might not come off that way. But he is kind of a goofball.

Did you play other sports growing up?

I played some baseball before I lost interest in that. I played golf my junior year of high school.

Do you have a favorite pregame meal?

Last year was the first year I played for a team where they got the food for us. I liked the teriyaki chicken, corn and spaghetti. I really enjoyed our meals, and I could eat a lot … but I quickly realized I probably shouldn’t.

Moving on to mullets, do you think Evan Janssen’s flow is in the same league as the vintage Jaromir Jagr ‘do?

I could see Janny giving Jagr a run for his money. It could be close. It was a good style back then and Jagr could rock it.

What is the Blake Hillman-endorsed Breakfast of Champions?

A waffle with chocolate chips on it.

Your freshman year is in the rearview mirror, but can you reflect on what the funnest part of it was?

Living in the dorms. I got to know my fellow freshmen really well. Hockey wise, the Battle on Blake outdoor game at Coors Field. I’ll never forget that.