Quin Hughes was drafted seventh overall by the Vancouver Canucks in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft. The uber-talented freshman defenseman lead Michigan to a Frozen Four berth. Furthermore, he set a record for Michigan freshman with 24 assists to accompany five goals. As a freshman, he developed into one of the best defensemen in all of college hockey.

After being drafted at the seven spot, Hughes had a difficult choice to make. He could leave Ann Arbor to go develop his game with an NHL staff and facilities. Or, he could stay at home in Michigan and lead his team for another year.

Hughes decided to return to Michigan and that is bad news for the for the rest of the Big Ten. It could have been even better for Michigan had they lured Quinn’s younger brother Jack from the US National Development Program. Jack is considered by some to be the favorite to go number one overall in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft.

Michigan made the Frozen Four last year. Hughes’ return makes them contenders to get back there again in 2019. It seems like every team in the Big Ten (aside from Michigan State) could be a legit threat in the national tournament. Michigan is certainly in the mix again. Hughes solidifies that.