Last season, Michigan State hockey coach Adam Nightingale said he likes a roster of 26 players. Well, that’s exactly what he got this time.
MSU hockey announced its roster of 14 returners and 12 newcomers for the upcoming season earlier today.
The team contains 18 draft picks - among the most in college hockey - including 10 first-round picks, five from the 2026 NHL Draft. While Nightingale has stressed that draft status does not define a player, the Spartans won’t be lacking.
By the Numbers - Returners
Seniors (4) - Gavin O’Connell (F), Tommi Männistö (F), Griffin Jurecki (F) and Patrick Geary (D)
Juniors (2) - Shane Vansaghi (F) and Owen West (D)
Sophomores (8) - Ryker Lee (F), Anthony Romani (F), Eric Nilson (F), Cayden Lindstrom (F), Cole Burke (F), Sean Barnhill (D), Matt Lahey (D) and Cole Ward (D)
MSU returns nine forwards, five defensemen and zero goaltenders.
Meet the 12 New Faces
Defenseman Chase Reid - Fr.
