According to a report from College Hockey News, Trey Augustine has informed the Detroit Red Wings that he intends to return to Michigan State University of the 2025-2026 season.
Augustine, who turned 20 at the end of February, has been one of the best goaltenders in all of college hockey since he arrived in East Lansing two years ago. The South Lyon native has appeared in 65 games with MSU, sporting a record of 42-16-6, and a .919 SV % along with a 2.55 GAA. Those numbers do not include his performance with Team USA in the junior circuit.
Maybe this is a shock to some, but I can’t say I am totally surprised. Augustine still has “unfinished business” with MSU after they were bounced from postseason play way earlier than anticipated. If Augustine signed his ELC this offseason, he would likely report to Grand Rapids and wouldn’t see time in the NHL for at least another year or two. Sebastian Cossa is still fighting his way up the depth chart and looks to be third option next season, barring any free agent signings or trade acquisitions.
This is a huge win for Adam Nightingale and his MSU squad, who were Big Ten Champs in back-to-back seasons. The Spartans will have a chance to make it a three-peat now with their number one goalie returning for another year.
The Red Wings have a sign-by date for Trey Augustine – as does any NHL team with prospects in the NCAA. Augustine needs to be signed to his ELC by August 15, 2027, otherwise he would become a free agent.
