Michigan and Michigan State Compete for Top NHL Prospect Landon DuPont
Michigan head coach Brandon Naurato, left, shakes hands with Michigan State head coach Adam Nightingale after 5-2 loss at the Duel in the D at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
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Michigan and Michigan State are in a fierce recruiting battle for Landon DuPont, a highly regarded defenseman projected to go first overall in the 2027 NHL Draft. DuPont recently eliminated Minnesota and Denver from consideration, leaving the two Michigan programs vying for his commitment as he prepares to visit both campuses next week.
- 01Landon DuPont had an impressive season with the Everett Silvertips, scoring 102 points in 85 games and leading his team to the Memorial Cup championship game.
- 02Michigan State has won three consecutive Big Ten regular-season titles, while Michigan has reached the Frozen Four four times in the last five years.
- 03Both programs are recognized for their NHL talent, with Michigan State potentially having eight or nine first-round picks on their roster next season.
- 04The rivalry between Michigan and Michigan State is intensifying as both teams aim to secure DuPont's commitment.
- 05Last season, Michigan had 14 NHL draft picks, while Michigan State had 15, showcasing their competitive strength in college hockey.
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The rivalry between Michigan and Michigan State intensifies as both programs compete for the commitment of Landon DuPont, a defenseman projected to be the first overall pick in the 2027 NHL Draft. According to Cam Robinson from Elite Prospects, DuPont has narrowed his choices to Michigan and Michigan State after eliminating Minnesota and Denver from consideration. DuPont had a standout season with the Everett Silvertips in the Western Hockey League (WHL), finishing with 102 points in 85 games and leading his team to the Memorial Cup championship game. Both programs have demonstrated significant success, with Michigan State winning the last three Big Ten regular-season titles and Michigan reaching the Frozen Four four times in the past five years. The competition for DuPont is fierce, as Michigan State could have up to nine first-round picks on their roster next season, while Michigan had 14 NHL draft picks last season. With DuPont set to visit both campuses next week, the outcome of this recruitment battle could have lasting implications for both teams.
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The recruitment of Landon DuPont could significantly enhance the competitive edge of either Michigan or Michigan State in college hockey.
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