While the Michigan hockey team celebrated two draftees already, the Wolverines’ weren’t done. Early in the second round, the San Jose Sharks selected forward Cole McKinney at No. 53 overall in the NHL Draft.
McKinney will be joining Michigan in the fall as one of the few freshmen who committed early on before the recent CHL decision. He spent two seasons in the USA Hockey National Team Development Program while playing on the U18 team this past season.
For USNTDP, McKinney tallied 61 points in 60 games during the 2024-2025 season with 27 goals as the leading scorer. Alongside his production during his USHL season, he aided the US team at World Juniors to a bronze medal finish. McKinney posted three goals and five games in the seven-game series.
He’s recognized for his detailed style of play on both sides of the puck, but will be looking to build up his offensive production during his time as a Wolverine. As Michigan coach Brandon Naurato built his upcoming roster to find more scoring power with his forwards, McKinney will have a group of scorers around him as he develops.
His versatility will become part of his identity as he makes the jump to collegiate hockey. As McKinney will be headed to Ann Arbor before his final destination in San Jose, he will look to make an impression amongst the other newly drafted Wolverines.
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