Gophers hockey star Jimmy Snuggerud to return for junior campaign

Star forward Jimmy Snuggerud gave Gophers fans some much-needed positive news Tuesday, announcing that he will return to Dinkytown for his 2024-25 season. In 38 games this season, he totaled 34 points, 21 goals (team-high) and 13 assists, earning first-team All-Big Ten honors for the second straight season.

“I am excited to announce I’m coming back to the University of Minnesota next season,” Snuggerud said in the release. “It was a tough ending to this season, and I feel like we have some unfinished business to accomplish.”

The Chaska, Minn. native was selected with the 23rd overall pick in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft by the St. Louis Blues. He had a chance to contribute to the team down the home stretch of the current season, but he instead opted to return to college for one more season.

“I am excited to announce I’m coming back to the University of Minnesota next season,” said Snuggerud. “It was a tough ending to this season, and I feel like we have some unfinished business to accomplish. I am committed to this team and excited for the opportunity next year with the Gophers. I watched Brock Faber come back for his junior year and I feel like I can take the same path as Brock to the NHL, and help the Gophers win a national championship.”

💣🤯🏒〽️HE'S BACK〽️🏒🤯💣

It's official @GopherHockey fans!!

Jimmy Snuggerud is coming back for another year with @DTAthletes

Let's build this thing for next year!!

Become a member 👇https://t.co/jssynAnMVN

Make a contribution 👇https://t.co/6TNPhhKAWL pic.twitter.com/k7mysgTVtn

— DinkytownAthletes (@DTAthletes) April 2, 2024

Gophers fans could remember last season when current Logan Cooley announced his return until he later flipped his mind to join the Coyotes. This seems different as the Blues organization has already publicly stated that they’ve spoken with Snuggerud and they fully support his decision.

Snuggerud gives the Maroon & Gold a bonafide superstar next season as they look to get back to the Frozen Four next season. For all University of Minnesota athletics this is more proof that Dinkytown Athletes and the current NIL structure is working. For a player to forgo an NHL contract and expected playing time, it shows that he will be properly compensated. There is still room to improve, but this is a big win for Minnesota sports.