By Adam Kimelman (link to full story)

The Stanley Cup Playoffs are five weeks away, but NHL teams are keeping a close eye on the college hockey playoffs, which are underway and building toward the Frozen Four at United Center in Chicago on April 6-8.

NHL teams can start signing undrafted college free agents after they've played the final game of their season. Players eligible to be signed are at least 20 years old and have gone through the draft process twice without being selected.

The Washington Capitals started the process when they signed University of Alaska-Anchorage forward Mason Mitchell to a two-year, entry-level contract Thursday.
NHL.com takes a look at some of the top college free agents (in alphabetical order) who could be the next to sign with an NHL team