Michigan Hockey: Potential No.1 pick leaning towards returning

Despite having an opportunity to be selected first overall in the NHL Entry Level Draft, Michigan hockey defenseman, Owen Power strongly considering returning to the Wolverines for his sophomore season.

Take that, Buffalo.

Watching the dysfunctional Sabres, can you blame a youngster trying to avoid that situation at all costs?

Also, this speaks to the maturity of the young 18-year old Power, who clearly feels that one more college season will greatly benefit his game.  It must be difficult to temper your emotions at that age, understanding you are likely a top-three overall pick.

In an article published by Mlive, Power explains his thought process;

"“I think right now I’m probably leaning more toward going back to school,” the 18-year-old told “NHL Now” on Friday. “It’s something I’d like to do, trying to get the true experience of playing college hockey. At the end of the day, it obviously depends on what the team wants and what everyone around me thinks is best. I don’t think there’s really a bad option, but I’d say I’m leaning a bit more toward going back to school right now.”"

I will say this, a bit more schooling has never hurt anyone.  I don’t blame Power, who clearly wants to have some time rounding out his game which will only aid him when he does make his NHL debut.

In turn, we have seen a plethora of players remain in the NHL for a year or two too long.

Michigan hockey skated to a 15-10-1 overall record last season with Power, a freshman but had been forced to withdraw from the NCAA Tournament due to the coronavirus protocols.

It’s a stout group of Michigan hockey players that are entering the draft. The Michigan hockey program may end up with three players selected in the top ten.  The trio of Wolverines expected to be chosen early are Power, Kent Johnson, and Matty Beniers.

Also, Michigan commit Luke Hughes, yes another Hughes brother, is also expected to be a top ten pick this summer.  The first day of the NHL draft takes place on July 23rd.

Michigan hockey’s Owen Power is eligible for the 2021 NHL Entry Level Draft even if he returns to school.

A team that selects Power will retain his rights for 30 days after he finishes school.  Once Power signs a professional deal, he is no longer eligible to return to the program.

The Buffalo Sabres will be followed by the latest addition to the NHL, the Seattle Kraken.  Then it’s the Anaheim Ducks, New Jersey, Columbus, and the Detroit Red Wings.

Power, a 6-foot-5 tower defender, is from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, recorded 16 points, including three goals with the Wolverines as a freshman.  Power also helped Team Canada win gold at the 2021 IIHF Worlds.