Photo: Timothy T. Ludwig ~ Imagn Images
EAST LANSING ~ Michigan State hockey made a statement on one of the sport’s biggest nights, as four incoming freshmen heard their names called in the first round of the 2026 NHL Draft in Buffalo. Defenseman Chase Reid, along with forwards Nikita Klepov, Ethan Belchetz and Jack Hextall, each took a major step toward fulfilling lifelong dreams. For a program built on tradition, the moment felt like a glimpse into its future, one shaped by elite, NHL-caliber talent arriving all at once in East Lansing.
Reid set the tone early in the night, going seventh overall to the Seattle Kraken and making history as the first Michigan State player ever drafted by the franchise. The Chesterfield, Michigan, native established himself as a dynamic two-way defenseman with the Soo Greyhounds, posting 48 points (18 goals, 30 assists) in 45 games this past season. His international performance with Team USA at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championships reinforced his rising stock, showcasing his ability to contribute offensively while maintaining composure on the back end.
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(CONTINUED) Not long after, Klepov’s name was called at No. 15 overall by the Anaheim Ducks, who traded up to secure one of the most explosive forwards in junior hockey. He dominated the Ontario Hockey League with 97 points, earning rookie of the year honors and a spot on the league’s First All-Star Team. His achievement placed him in rare company, becoming just the third player in OHL history to lead the league in scoring as a rookie. Moments later, Belchetz added to the Spartans’ historic night, going 17th overall to the Utah Mammoth. A physical, high-impact forward, Belchetz combined scoring touch with strength, finishing among the OHL’s top scorers while bringing international experience from his bronze medal run with Team Canada at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
The night concluded with Jack Hextall heading to the Calgary Flames at No. 30 overall, completing Michigan State’s remarkable four-player first-round haul. Hextall’s steady production in the USHL, paired with all-star recognition and international success, underscored his all-around game and consistency. Together, the four selections highlight a significant moment for Michigan State hockey, signaling a resurgence fueled by top-tier recruiting and player development. As these freshmen transition to the collegiate level, expectations will be high, but so is the excitement around what this group could accomplish in green and white.
