Michigan State is ready to take another run at a National Championship following a fortified blue line, three new netminders and support from professional alumni.
Michigan State has arguably the best defensive groups on paper for 2026-27. They brought in Tommy Bleyl (2026 Nashville, 31st Overall) a year early and secured the services of Chase Reid (2026 Seattle, 6th Overall). These two blueliners bolster a back end including 6 foot 6 sophomores Matt Lahey and Cole Ward plus Rangers' prospect Sean Barnhill.
It's not just the defense that the Spartans added to. Following the departure of Porter Martone to the Philadelphia Flyers, Michigan State brought in a few new forwards. These include Ethan Belchetz (2026 Utah, 17th Overall), Jack Hextall (2026 Calgary 30th Overall) and Mason West (2025 Chicago 29th Overall).
Apr 3, 2026; Elmont, New York, USA; Philadelphia Flyers forward Porter Martone (94) plays the puck in the first period against the New York Islanders at UBS Arena. Mandatory Credit: Alexander Wohl-Imagn ImagesMartone lauded his alma mater's chances going into 2026-27 saying "They got another strong team, and you know they can contend for a national championship."
After Trey Augustine's departure for the Detroit Red Wings, the Spartans added some fresh faces between the pipes. 2025 San Jose first rounder Joshua Ravensbergen arrives via the WHL's Prince George Cougars. Junior Quentin Sigurdson transferred from Northeastern and JJ Salajko makes the jump out of the North American Hockey League.
The X-Factor behind the Spartan's success is Head Coach Adam Nightingale. Augustine didn't mince words about the impact Nightingale will have on bringing the team together explaining, "Coach Nightingale is one of the best college coaches in the game right now, and I have no doubt that they'll be up in the ranks again."
While on ice performance gets noticed the most, it's the culture that Nightingale has built which shines the brightest and helps fuel Michigan State's championship ambitions.
"I only went there for one year, but you know, it was one of the best years of my life," said Martone. I stay in touch with all those guys, the staff there, and just hope for their best. Just to be an alum of Michigan State's is pretty cool."
As I stated in my 2027 Frozen Four preview, even with Augustine and Porter Martone leaving, Michigan State may be stronger than last year. Coupled with an incredible culture created, the Spartans are in prime position for their fourth title.
