Michigan State Hockey Adds One of Top Defenseman in USHL
![Michigan State hockey coach Adam Nightingale hoists the Big Ten tournament championship trophy after the Spartans beat Michigan 5-4 in overtime in Saturday night's title game at Munn Ice Arena in East Lansing. Michigan State hockey coach Adam Nightingale hoists the Big Ten tournament championship trophy after the Spartans beat Michigan 5-4 in overtime in Saturday night's title game at Munn Ice Arena in East Lansing.](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_crop,w_3000,h_1687,x_0,y_531/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/images/ImagnImages/mmsport/spartan_nation/01j30vk0zntge8fa5ear.jpg)
Michigan State hockey made a big-time move this week.
According to Nathaniel Bott of the Lansing State Journal, the Spartans have brought in defenseman Vladislav Lukashevich, one of the top defenseman in the USHL. Lukashevich finished third among all USHL defensemen in scoring last year with 43 points -- 11 goals and 32 assists -- for Tri-City Storm.
The 21-year-old defenseman was selected by the Florida Panthers in the fourth round of the 2021 NHL Draft.
Michigan State hockey has added defensemen Vladislav Lukashevich for this season. Was 3rd in the USHL for scoring for a defenseman (11 goals, 32 assists). 2nd Team All-USHL player last year at Tri-City. Florida 4th round pick.
— Nathaniel Bott (@Nathaniel_Bott) July 16, 2024
Big add for the Spartans in replacing Levshunov.
Lukashevich's arrival at Michigan State will mark a significant addition to Adam Nightingale's hockey program, promising to bolster the team's defensive prowess and overall competitiveness.
As a highly regarded defenseman, Lukashevich brings a wealth of skills and experience that are expected to make an immediate impact on the team's performance.
Known for his exceptional defensive abilities, Lukashevich has consistently demonstrated a keen understanding of the game, combining strong positional play with a knack for disrupting opposing offenses. His agility on the ice, coupled with his ability to read plays effectively, allows him to thwart scoring opportunities and transition the puck swiftly to the offense.
These qualities not only make him a formidable force in his own zone but also a valuable asset in generating offensive opportunities for his team.
Lukashevich's journey to Michigan State is marked by a series of achievements that underscore his talent and dedication to the sport. Having honed his skills through years of competitive play, he has garnered praise for his leadership qualities and commitment to continuous improvement. His work ethic and disciplined approach to training are expected to set a positive example for his teammates, instilling a culture of hard work and resilience within the squad.
Off the ice, Lukashevich is known for his professionalism and dedication to academics, reflecting Michigan State's commitment to recruiting well-rounded student-athletes. His integration into the university community is expected to further enrich the team's dynamic, fostering camaraderie and a shared sense of purpose among players.
As the season approaches, anticipation is high among fans and analysts alike regarding the impact Lukashevich will have on Michigan State's hockey program. With his proven ability to excel under pressure and contribute meaningfully in critical game situations, Lukashevich stands poised to make his mark as a key player for the Spartans. His addition underscores Michigan State's ambition to compete at the highest levels of collegiate hockey, promising an exciting journey ahead for both the team and its supporters.
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