Despite the ability coaches have to jump into the transfer portal and add NCAA-ready players to their lineups, the lifeblood of any program is still its ability to recruit.
The wave of freshmen players entering college hockey this season is special. Two top-five picks will enter the sport this season and a potential top pick in the 2023 NHL Draft will also suit up at Michigan.
Many college hockey fans don't follow players prior to entering college, so these may be big names to some, but brand new to many. Here's the newcomers to keep an eye on this season, and watch closely, because they may not be around for long.