It’s official — Penn State men’s hockey has a first round draft pick for the first time in program history.
Jackson Smith, who committed to the Nittany Lions on June 15, was drafted No. 14 overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2025 NHL entry draft.
The Calgary, Alberta, native spent his previous two-plus seasons in the Western Hockey League (WHL), officially blossoming as a premier NHL prospect last year for the Tri-City Americans.
Smith took the WHL by storm in his 2024-25 campaign, tallying 54 points, 43 assists and 11 goals in 68 games — pairing his offensive production with elite defense.
Ahead of the draft, Smith couldn’t contain his excitement.
“I kind of thought it was impossible,” Smith told WHL reporters. “Getting here, it’s a pretty surreal feeling. I’m just super excited.”
The left-handed defenseman will join the Nittany Lions for the 2025-26 season prior to competing in the big leagues.
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