Michigan State hockey flips Northeastern blue line commit, bringing him in for 2025-26

Spartans Land Top Prospect After Injury Creates Opening

Commit Flip Sends Skilled Defenseman to East Lansing

Just as it seemed the roster was set for the 2025-26 season, an injury at an NHL development camp unexpectedly opened a spot on Michigan State's blue line. The Spartans swiftly capitalized on the opportunity, securing a commitment from highly touted defenseman Sean Barnhill.

Barnhill, a third-round pick by the New York Rangers in the 2025 NHL Draft, was originally slated to join Northeastern University in 2026. The 6-foot-5, 215-pound Arizona native spent last season with the Dubuque Fighting Saints of the USHL.

Michigan State's open roster spot proved to be a key factor in convincing Barnhill to join the Spartans for the upcoming season.

"🚨COMMIT FLIP ALERT🚨
Defenseman Sean Barnhill will join the Michigan State Spartans after originally committing to Northeastern per @MikeMcMahonCHN
3rd Round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft by the @NYRangers will play College Hockey in 2025-26 for Sparty!"

— College Puck NXT (@CollegePuckNXT) August 2, 2025

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