Adam Fantilli is widely regarded as the top uncommitted recruit in the nation. Well, he’s uncommitted no longer.
Fantilli has verbally committed to Michigan. NHL Network’s Jon Morosi first reported the news on Wednesday.
“Adam is one of the premier ‘04s in the world,” said NZ scouts. “His power, skill, shooting ability, and pro stride are all elite. He was a man among boys even as a 2004 at the NE Prep level. It was the best freshman season NZ has ever seen in prep school hockey. He took over games as a 2004. He was the assistant Captain at the Youth Olympic team and one of the best players in the tournament. Has a real edge to his game. He can be intimidating to play against. He can beat opponents in so many different ways and physically punish them at the same time. Total package.”
A 2004-born center from Ontario, Fantilli is the early favorite to become the No. 1 overall selection in the 2023 NHL Draft. Last season as a 15-year-old, he appeared in 49 games for the Chicago Steel in the USHL and recorded 18 goals and 18 assists for 36 points. Those are eye-popping numbers for an underage player who is competing with some players who are five years older.
Fantilli is scheduled to play for the Steel again this upcoming season and arrive at Michigan prior to his NHL Draft year in 2022. His brother, Luca Fantilli is a 2002-born defenseman who committed to the Wolverines last year. He’s also scheduled to play for the Steel this upcoming season and arrive at Michigan the same time as his brother.
