Michigan Hockey’s Secret Weapon: Adam Fantilli

When you hear “Michigan Hockey” the first people who may come to your mind are Quinn Hughes, Matty Beniers, Luke Hughes, Owen Power, or even Dylan Larkin. When you think of the 2023 draft, you will probably think of Connor Bedard. The name most likely missing in your “unforgettable Michigan hockey players” and “really good prospects” lists is Adam Fantilli.

The freshman who only turned 18 on Oct. 12, is by far the best player on his roster, and is currently the number one NCAA college hockey player. With his impressive 18 points in eight games, Fantilli blew everyone away with his skill and motivation each game.

Last year while playing for the Chicago Steel, in his 54 games played, Fantilli registered a total of 74 points broken down evenly into 37 goals and 37 assists. Fantilli also had the best PtPG on his team, averaging a 1.37. Along with his impressive stats Fantilli spent 93 minutes in the penalty box. Assuming that Fantilli averaged an ice time of about 20 minutes per game, those 90 minutes spent in the penalty box evens out to five games worth of playing time, making his PtPG average even higher, in theory.

This year, Fantilli has played eight games at the University of Michigan and has a total of 18 points. Fantilli has 8 goals and 10 assists this season with a PtPG average of 2.25. Fantilli doesn't only lead his team in points, with his goals and assists, he leads the team in both categories while also leading the team in +/- ratings with a +11.

League wide, Fantilli leads all NCAA players in PtPg and points, with the second place player being four points behind him. Fantilli also takes second in the league in assists, +/- ,and SOG.

The season has only just begun, but Adam Fantilli sure looks like he might just take a top three spot in this years draft. Only time will tell.