Michigan State Hockey Falls Short in Frozen Four Overtime Thriller

Top NHL prospects Porter Martone and Trey Augustine set to turn pro after tournament exit

Mar. 29, 2026 at 2:48pm

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The Michigan State Spartans' NCAA Frozen Four run came to a heartbreaking end in overtime against Wisconsin, despite holding a late 3-1 lead. Despite the defeat, several Spartans stars are poised to begin their professional careers, including top draft picks Porter Martone and Trey Augustine.

Why it matters

Michigan State's tournament loss highlights the unpredictable nature of the single-elimination NCAA hockey playoffs, where even top contenders can be quickly eliminated. However, the impending departures of Martone and Augustine to the NHL reflect a growing trend of collegiate players accelerating their path to the professional ranks.

The details

Michigan State entered the Frozen Four as the tournament's third seed after defeating UConn in the opening round. The Spartans held a 3-1 lead late in the third period against Wisconsin, but a quick pair of Badgers goals forced overtime, where Ben Dexheimer secured the victory. This defeat prevents Porter Martone and his teammates from reaching the national semifinals in Las Vegas.

  • Michigan State's tournament run began with a win against the University of Connecticut.
  • The Spartans entered the Wisconsin game as the tournament's third seed.
  • The loss occurred in overtime on March 29, 2026.

The players

Porter Martone

A freshman forward for Michigan State who is expected to sign with the Philadelphia Flyers, who selected him sixth overall in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft.

Trey Augustine

Michigan State's 21-year-old goaltender, a second-round pick of the Detroit Red Wings in 2023, who is also anticipated to turn professional and join the American Hockey League.

Cayden Lindstrom

A Michigan State forward who was the fourth overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft and is expected to return to the Spartans for another season.

Adam Nightingale

The head coach of the Michigan State hockey team, who has been instrumental in attracting top recruits and fostering a winning culture.

Ben Dexheimer

The Wisconsin player who scored the game-winning goal in overtime to eliminate Michigan State from the Frozen Four tournament.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.