For the second time this summer, theos Angeles Kings have seen one of their prospects switch schools.
First it was Hampton Slukynsky who switched from Northern Michigan to Western Michigan.
Now it's 2022 6th round pick Jack Sparkes who's switching from Michigan State to Clarkson University.
This is the second time recently that Sparkes has made a big change after leaving the USHL for the BCHL last season.
Sparkes' is still several years from having any hope of making the NHL, but this move should give him more of a chance to develop.
With a presumed larger role at Clarkson Sparkes will get the reps necessary to develop.
Sparkes posted just two goals and nine points for the Chilliwack Chiefs last season, but offense isn't Sparkes' forte.
At 6-foot-8 with some good feet for his size and a physical edge, Sparkes is a true shutdown defenseman.
College hockey is a great pathway for Sparkes. It's a more "NHL-like" style of hockey than juniors.
It will give Sparkes the opportunity to find his game and deal with more physically developed players.
Rob Blake talked about getting uncomfortable this summer and Sparkes will do that in college.
He'll still be a physical player, but he won't have the drastic physical advantage he has against players in junior anymore.
Having to adapt to this will make Sparkes a better player and will help him take steps towards being an NHLer in the future.