To use a simplified analogy, the blue chippers that commit early, but are only around for 1-2 years are the Corvette, Mustang, Porsche types of the hockey world: incredibly sexy, worth the hype, fun to have for a period of time, but aren't all weather, all situation type of vehicles. The 3-4 year culture guys who have talent are the F-150 and Silverado types of the hockey world: not super sexy & don't always get early attention, but durable, all situation/weather type vehicles & get the job done.
To win National Championships, you need those F-150s and Silverados in your lineup, which the NCHC typically has more of compared to the B1G & Hockey East. I do think the dynamic will shift a bit, who knows how much, with CHLers now NCAA eligible.