Other players to watch for Penn State are freshman defenseman Jackson Smith, selected by the Columbus Blue Jackets with the No. 14 pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, and Nashville Predators forward prospect Aiden Fink, a junior who led Penn State with 53 points (23 goals, 30 assists) in 40 games last season.
Michigan State is the two-time defending Big 10 regular-season and tournament champion, led by junior goalie Trey Augustine. The Detroit Red Wings prospect was named Big 10 goalie of the year last season, and helped the United States win the gold medal at the IIHF World Junior Championship in 2024 and 2025.
The Spartans also will feature two highly regarded freshman forwards in Cayden Lindstrom (Blue Jackets), the No. 4 pick of the 2024 NHL Draft, and Porter Martone (Philadelphia Flyers), the No. 6 pick of the 2025 draft.
“This is a historic moment for Penn State Hockey, our fans and the entire Penn State community,” Kraft said. “To bring the excitement of college hockey to Beaver Stadium is truly special. Having our men’s program face a premier Big 10 opponent in Michigan State and our women’s program face Robert Morris on this stage reflects the incredible growth and national profile of Penn State hockey and provides an unforgettable experience for our student-athletes, alumni and fans. We can’t wait to see Hockey Valley come alive in Beaver Stadium.”
Times for the games will be announced at a later date.