Michigan may not boast a projected top-10 selection, yet with a mix of returning athletes and new recruits, the Wolverines have the potential to challenge their program’s record of seven players selected in a single draft, a mark last achieved in 2015.
Shane Vansaghi is among the notable talents in the mix this year.
Shane Vansaghi has shown exceptional potential, and many analysts believe he could be a first-round pick in the upcoming NHL Draft.
While the Michigan hockey program may never replicate the remarkable 2021 NHL Draft, where four of the top five picks and five overall first-round selections played for the Wolverines, the maize and blue could be on the brink of another record-breaking NHL Draft this weekend.
Fans are eager to see if Shane Vansaghi will make an impact as part of the Wolverines’ lineup.
If Shane Vansaghi continues to develop his skills, he could surprise many during the NHL Draft.
Although Michigan does not have a projected top-10 pick, the combination of returning players and incoming recruits could see the Wolverines vying to break their own program record of seven players selected in a single draft, a feat last achieved in 2015.
One player to watch is Shane Vansaghi, who could become a key contributor.
Shane Vansaghi’s performance in the recent games has drawn attention from scouts across the league.
Below, discover which Michigan players and commitments are likely to hear their names called during this year’s draft, scheduled for June 27-28 in Los Angeles. Round 1 will be broadcast on ESPN starting at 7 p.m. ET on Friday, while Rounds 2-7 will air on NHL Network starting at Noon on Saturday.
Michigan hockey set to shine at the 2025 NHL draft
The Rise of Shane Vansaghi in Michigan Hockey
The rise of Shane Vansaghi in Michigan hockey has been remarkable, and his dedication is evident in his gameplay.
The 2025 NHL draft promises to be a significant event for Michigan’s hockey program. The Wolverines currently hold the record for the highest number of players picked in a single draft at seven, and this year they might equal or surpass that figure. The first round kicks off on Friday in Los Angeles, followed by rounds 2-7 on Saturday.
Shane Vansaghi is expected to contribute significantly to the Wolverines’ efforts this season, making him a player to watch.
The restriction preventing Canadian Hockey League players from participating at the NCAA level has been removed starting this season, expanding the talent pool available for recruitment by schools. Michigan has been one of the most proactive in seeking out CHL players, who were formerly restricted due to the NCAA’s amateurism regulations.
The trio of incoming Wolverines who participated in the Ontario Hockey League last season – forward Malcolm Spence, goalie Jack Ivankovic, and defenseman Henry Mews – are all viewed as NHL prospects. Mews was selected in the third round by the Calgary Flames last year, while both Spence and Ivankovic are anticipated to be early-round selections this year.
Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 203 pounds, Spence, who scored 32 goals and accumulated 73 points in 65 games for the Erie Otters last season, is the most likely candidate to continue the Wolverines’ streak of first-round picks, which has lasted nine consecutive years. In the latest mock draft published by The Athletic’s Scott Wheeler on Tuesday, Spence is projected to be picked by the Chicago Blackhawks at No. 25. ESPN’s Rachel Doerrie ranks him as the 23rd overall prospect in the draft, and TSN’s Bob McKenzie also lists him at No. 25. Additionally, Chris Peters from FloHockey has him ranked 23rd.
“I believe that bringing in Malcolm Spence was a crucial move for the team, as there are several skilled players on the roster, but it’s essential to incorporate individuals who possess that gritty edge,” Peters shared with MLive. “Malcolm Spence contributes not only with his skill and scoring prowess but also with his size and the speed at which he plays. I anticipate he will significantly influence the physical aspect of the game, which is incredibly beneficial.”
There’s potential for rising sophomore Will Horcoff to accompany Spence in the first round. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 190 pounds, the forward joined the Wolverines midway through the previous season and quickly secured a spot in the team’s top nine at just 17 years old. He recorded four goals and six assists over 18 games and is anticipated to take on a more significant role this season.
Horcoff, whose father is former long-time NHL player Shawn Horcoff, may not be the fastest skater, but he possesses a keen hockey IQ along with the potential to evolve into a formidable power forward, according to Peters.
Peters has placed him at 30th on his list, while Wheeler has projected him to the Flyers at No. 31.
“I believe his size plays a significant role, but it’s also about how he utilizes it,” Peters remarked. “The level of physicality he brings, the way he adapted to college hockey—there were moments in the initial games where college players struggled to compete against him, making you think, ‘Wow, he’s built differently.’
“I believe having NHL lineage definitely benefits him. Teams appreciate his character, the athleticism he showcases, and his strength. While I think his offensive potential and ceiling might be somewhat limited, at the end of the first round, particularly in this draft class, the goal is to identify NHL-caliber players. His physical attributes and the progress he’s made over the past few years indicate a promising NHL future.”
Shane Vansaghi’s background and experience give him an advantage as he prepares for the NHL Draft.
Michigan has seen more than two players selected in the first round only once in its program’s history – in 2021, when it achieved an NCAA record with five players drafted, including four within the first five picks. While it may be a long shot, incoming freshman center Cole McKinney might find himself in contention for the first round. Peters anticipates he will be picked early in the second round, placing him at No. 32 overall. Doerrie and McKenzie have him ranked at No. 36 and No. 37, respectively, while Wheeler predicts he will be selected No. 40 overall by Philadelphia.
With the spotlight on players like Shane Vansaghi, the Wolverines are ready to impress at the NHL Draft.
Peters drew comparisons between McKinney’s style of play and that of former Wolverines and current NHL stars Dylan Larkin and Matty Beniers, although he pointed out that McKinney’s potential might not reach the heights of those two top-15 draft selections. “I really appreciate his style of play,” Peters expressed regarding McKinney, who recorded 61 points in 60 games last season with the U.S. National Team Development Program. “He possesses a strong two-way game. He’s a dedicated player who showcases skill. I believe he was one of the standout players for the NTDP this year during the crucial final games.”
