Michigan hockey is taking over Columbus with numerous NHL Draft picks

For the seventh straight year, the Michigan hockey team has had one or more players selected in the first round of the NHL draft. Two players from last year’s freshman class were selected in the NHL draft… and they just happened to be chosen by the same team.

Adam Fantilli:

What was once enemy territory is now home for the Hobey Baker winner! With the third overall pick in the NHL draft, the Columbus Blue Jackets made a steal by selecting Adam Fantilli.

Before the draft, Fantilli was ranked No. 2 among the prospects, second only to the generational talent Connor Bedard. However, Anaheim chose Leo Carlsson with the second pick, leaving Fantilli available for Columbus. Nobody is happier than the Blue Jackets, as they have a strong affinity for their Wolverines, and Fantilli will fit in incredibly well with the team.

After an outstanding freshman year, the star forward signed his Entry Level Contract with the Blue Jackets and will be joining them in Columbus in just a few months.

Fantilli will be joining three former Michigan hockey players in Columbus: Zach Werenski, Kent Johnson, and Nick Blankenburg. Not only that, but the Blue Jackets also drafted Fantilli’s best friend and Michigan teammate just one round later.

Gavin Brindley:

Gavin Brindley will be playing alongside his Wolverine teammate in Columbus! The Blue Jackets selected him 34th overall in the second round.

The undersized forward from Fort Myers, Florida, totaled 38 points last season for the Wolverines. However, he is fast and a skilled playmaker, often creating opportunities with Fantilli by his side. Brindley, a fan favorite on the Wolverines hockey team, is sure to become a fan favorite in Columbus as well. The Blue Jackets’ development camp is taking place this week, and both Wolverines will be in attendance.

The success of former Wolverines with the Columbus Blue Jackets is evident, so it’s inevitable that Fantilli and Brindley will follow suit. They are going to be incredibly exciting to watch in the big leagues!

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