With half the roster replaced, departing stars weigh in on the Penn State's path forward
Penn State posted what appears to be their returners for the 2026-27 Campaign. If it is the complete list, then half of the Nittany Lions competing this year will be new. Many top performers departed Happy Valley at the end of last year. Three players transferred, including J.J. Wiebusch to Wisconsin. Ten others including Gavin McKenna and Charlie Cerrato inked professional contracts.
Speaking of McKenna and Cerrato, they are confident in their alma mater's ability to conquer this upcoming challenge.
"I love Penn State and loved what we did last year," said McKenna. "To see the program bringing in all these high recruits now. It's pretty special."
My co-editor Owen Cameron touched on some of these incoming players in his recent Freshmen Focus piece. One of the biggest questions for the Nittany Lions will be between the pipes following Kevin Reidler's signing with the Ottawa Senators. Freshman Ryder Fetterolf looks to be part of that answer alongside sophomore Josh Fleming. Carolina took the 2026 CHL Goaltender of the Year in the 4th Round (125th Overall) this past summer.
Another new player to keep an eye on is Caeden Herrington, selected by Los Angeles in the same round as Fetterolf. The sophomore transfer from Vermont is an excellent puck moving defenseman who can add an offensive spark to the blue line.
Perhaps this is partially why Ceratto has such high hopes for his old squad telling me at the 2026 NHLPA Rookie Showcase presented by Upper Deck, "I expect them (Penn State) to be good and compete."
McKenna concurred, expressing faith in the Nittany Lions while acknowledging the adversity ahead. "The Big Ten is an unbelievable division, so there's going to be challenges," McKenna said. "But I'm confident.I hope they have a good year, and I believe in them, and I think they will."
There will no doubt question be some obstacles for the young Penn State squad. They will meet Frozen Four front runners Quinnipiac and Michigan State, plus the University of Connecticut and Wisconsin. Depending on how the newcomers gel with the veterans could make or break the season.
Charlie Cerrato said best what I and others are no doubt thinking going into the year saying, "I'm excited to see what they do now kind of looking outside in."
