Say what you want about the current state of college athletics and the frequency with which student-athletes are moving around. It's a far cry from how things used to be. Then again, if you're good at what you do, it makes sense to want the most eyes on you as possible. The Hurricanes have a prospect going through the process, and he has settled on his next destination.
2024 fifth-round pick Justin Poirier is heading to Happy Valley for his sophomore campaign, joining Penn State University in a decision that was first reported on Monday morning. Poirier took advantage of the CHL to NCAA pipeline after three standout seasons in the QMJHL. The Quebec native totaled 122 goals and 210 points in 188 games before jumping to the college ranks.
Poirier spent last season playing at the University of Maine, and he hit the ground running for the Black Bears. He led Maine in goals this season with 18 while finishing third on the team in points (29). His 18 tucks were tied for the fourth-most among freshmen in the NCAA. Poirier likely would've added to that total if season-ending hip surgery hadn't sidelined him for the final few games.
Still, Poirier's work before his injury was enough to garner a spot on the initial shortlist for the Hobey Baker Memorial Award, given annually to the best player in college hockey. While he didn't make it past the initial round of voting, it was a deserved distinction for the freshman, and something he could look to build on at Penn State next season.
This is a massive addition for the Nittany Lions, who aren't far removed from their first-ever trip to the Frozen Four. They're rebuilding their roster after losing several players to the NHL or professional tryouts at the end of the season, including fellow Hurricanes draft pick Charlie Cerrato, and the impending departure of potential top pick and leading scorer Gavin McKenna.
I like this move a lot for Poirier. Playing in the Big Ten gives him an opportunity to play against some of the best college programs in the country, thus putting more eyes on his game. At the very least, it'll be a chance for him to alleviate concerns about his size. The Canes hold his signing rights until 2028, so one more good season could lead to an entry-level contract for Poirier at this time next year.
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