The Michigan State hockey program has just cemented its place in draft history, with nine of its current players and commitments selected at the NHL draft, including five who were chosen in the opening round.
A Draft Class Like No Other
The Spartans' nine selections shatter previous records, marking the deepest first‑round presence any college team has ever achieved in a single draft.
As the new 2026‑27 season looms, each of those prospects is already immersing themselves in the professional game, heading to NHL development camps that will shape their readiness for the upcoming campaign.
Camp Circuit Across the League
The development‑camp itinerary reads like a tour of the NHL, with Spartans scattered across franchises from the Anaheim Ducks to the Vancouver Canucks. Eric Nilson and Nikita Klepov are slated to work with the Ducks, while Cullen McCrate will report to the Boston Bruins. Maxim Strbak and Patrick Geary are attending the Buffalo Sabres' camp, and Cullen Potter and Jack Hextall are joining the Calgary Flames. Mason West is headed to the Chicago Blackhawks, and Cayden Lindstrom and Tommi Mannisto will be on the ice for the Columbus Blue Jackets. Jonas Kemps is preparing with the Florida Panthers, while Charlie Stramel is set to showcase his skills for the Minnesota Wild.
The list continues with Ryker Lee and Tommy Bleyl at the Nashville Predators, Sean Barnhill with the New York Rangers, and Porter Martone, Shane Vansaghi, and Matthew Gard with the Philadelphia Flyers. Daniel Russell, Tiernan Shoudy, and Brady Peddle are slated for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Joshua Ravensbergen for the San Jose Sharks, and Chase Reid for the Seattle Kraken. Colin Ralph and Nick Bogas are joining the St. Louis Blues, Matt Lahey is heading to the Toronto Maple Leafs, and Ethan Belchetz is set for the Utah Mammoth. Finally, Anthony Romani and Brooks Rogowski are preparing with the Vancouver Canucks.
The breadth of representation underscores the program’s growing influence on the pro hockey landscape, as prospects from every corner of the roster earn the chance to impress coaching staffs and secure roster spots. With such a deep pool of talent, Michigan State’s impact on the NHL is poised to grow even further in the coming seasons.