The Michigan State hockey program had a roster hole to fill for the upcoming season.
Following the departure of incoming freshman Nikita Klepov, who decided to turn pro rather than play in college and signed with Anaheim after being picked in the first round of this summer's NHL draft, the Spartans found a solid replacement.
MSU secured a commitment on Wednesday, Aug. 12, from forward Diego Johnson of the Penticton Vees in the Western Hockey League.
Johnson, a 5-11, 179-pound forward from Fort St. James, British Columbia, scored 25 goals with 21 assists in 68 games with Penticton in his lone season at the WHL level.
Previously, Johnson, had been committed to Connecticut, played two years in the USHL with the Madison Capitals where he had 20 goals and 25 assists in the 2024-2025 season while playing with current Spartan Ryker Lee.
MSU's regular season begins on Oct. 9 with the first of a two-game series with Northern Michigan at Munn Ice Arena.
Contact Nathaniel Bott at nbott@lsj.com and follow him on X @Nathaniel_Bott
This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Michigan State hockey adds forward Diego Johnson for 2026-27 season