The NCAA doesn't favor single-sport conferences. You don't get a seat at some tables. B1G gets a seat; ECAC gets a seat; HEA and NCHC do not. The Summit (multi-sport) would solve this.
Yes, the NCHC worries they'd be behind BB in the league office but money talks and UND, DU, and UNO hockey have loud voices.
In fairness, that fifth year portal guy has pretty solid resume.
https://fightinghawks.com/news/2024/4/17/mens-hockey-carter-wilkie-transfers-to-north-dakota-for-2024-25-season.aspx
We'll need Wilkie to be solid at the start while Boisvert adapts to college. Both will be top nine; they'll likely change roles in late January if Boisvert makes the college transition.