The college free agent crop lost another name today, but not because of a big signing. Connor Mackey has decided to return to Minnesota State University-Mankato for his junior season according to Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet, ending any speculation that he would be signing an NHL deal this summer.
Mackey, 22, has been on NHL radars for some time, ever since recording 47 points in his final USHL season in 2016-17. The 6’2″ defenseman can move the puck effectively and has appeared in development camps over the last few years. This season at college he recorded 25 points in 42 games, creating speculation that he was ready to jump to the professional ranks.
His decision to go back to school will end any negotiations for this year, but there will certainly be teams still interested after his junior season. In fact, Mackey may very well be one of the most highly anticipated free agents next time around, something he and his representation are probably betting on.
He’ll be motivated to return to the Mavs. Yes, he got the guy from Providence with an elbow, but the major came with some acting.