Michigan’s hockey program is set to bolster its roster for the upcoming season with the addition of a top NHL prospect.
Forward Adam Valentini, a projected early-round pick in 2026, is expected to play with the Wolverines this year instead of suiting up for the Kitchener Rangers of the Ontario Hockey League.
In a statement Monday, Rangers general manager Mike McKenzie said Valentini has informed him that he will not be joining the team and instead will sign with Michigan. According to a source, Valentini’s addition will be announced by the Wolverines on Tuesday.
The Canadian-born center committed to Michigan in July 2024 but signed with Kitchener in June after the Rangers acquired his rights in a trade with the Brampton Steelheads.
Canadian Hockey League players are eligible to compete at the NCAA level beginning this season, and Michigan has been aggressive mining a new talent pool. Canadian major junior players were previously ineligible because the NCAA considered them professionals since they received stipends from their junior teams.
Last season, Valentini played in the United States Hockey League and registered 17 goals and 22 assists in 58 games for the Chicago Steel, which has produced a handful of Wolverines in recent years.
The 5-foot-8 Toronto native will join a young but talented Michigan team that opens its season on Oct. 3 against Mercyhurst. The Wolverines’ roster will include at least 10 freshmen, six of whom were selected in the 2025 NHL draft.
Michigan missed the NCAA Tournament last year for the first time since 2019.
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