​Michigan has added another highly regarded defenseman to its 2026-27 NCAA roster as Levi Harper announced his commitment to the Wolverines last week. Harper, who starred for the Saginaw Spirit in the Ontario Hockey League, led all rookie defensemen in scoring last season and is set to bring a combination of offensive vision, defensive reliability, and strong academic credentials to Ann Arbor.
In his rookie campaign with Saginaw, Harper racked up 57 points, including 12 goals and 45 assists, to establish a new single-season high-water mark for a Spirit rookie defenseman. His production placed him third overall among all rookies in the OHL, underscoring his ability to impact games from the blue line. Harper’s performance not only showcased his playmaking ability and point-producing potential but also highlighted his consistent two-way game, reliability on the back end, and capacity to contribute in transition, joining an emerging generation of Michigan defensemen expected to anchor the program for years to come.
Harper’s accolades extend beyond his on-ice success. He was honored with the OHL’s Bobby Smith Trophy, awarded annually to the league’s Scholastic Player of the Year, recognizing his excellence in academics alongside his athletic prowess. He carried a remarkable academic average of 93.2% (3.856 GPA) through the University of Nebraska High School, reflecting his dedication to his studies and ability to balance sport with academics at a high level. This blend of elite hockey credentials and strong scholastic achievement aligns well with Michigan’s emphasis on both performance and education.
Joining Harper on Michigan’s blue line for the upcoming season is a group already attracting significant attention. The Wolverines’ defensive corps is expected to include Landon DuPont, who is projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2027 NHL Draft, along with NHL-drafted teammates Henry Mews (Calgary Flames), Cameron Reid (Nashville Predators), and Asher Barnett (Edmonton Oilers). This collection of talent could form one of the most formidable second-tier bluelines in college hockey, providing Michigan with depth, skill, and a blend of high-end potential and professional pedigree.
It’s also worth noting that Harper’s addition will bring some familial chemistry into the lineup, as his older brother Brandt Harper will be part of Michigan’s defensive cohort as well. Brandt Harper, who played for the Saginaw Spirit and previously logged 57 games with the North Bay Battalion in the Ontario Hockey League, recorded six goals and 16 assists for 22 points last season. The brothers’ combined presence across Michigan’s defensive group adds another layer of depth and familiarity, potentially aiding in on-ice coordination and poise as they transition to collegiate hockey together.
The Wolverines will begin their 2026-27 season with a home-and-home series against Bowling Green. Michigan will host the Falcons on October 2 and then travel to Bowling Green for the rematch on October 3, setting the tone for a season that fans hope will be defined by strong defensive play, high-end talent, and a continued push for national success. Harper’s commitment reinforces Michigan’s intent to build a blue line capable of pushing the team into deep postseason runs, leveraging a mix of experienced juniors, early draftees, and promising newcomers who can contribute immediately.
This latest development comes as Michigan continues to shape a recruiting class and lineup designed to maximize both immediate impact and long-term development. Harper’s proven scoring ability from the back end, combined with his scholastic discipline and the presence of several NHL-drafted peers on the roster, positions the Wolverines to be a formidable force in the upcoming NCAA season. Michigan fans can look forward to watching Harper integrate into a defense-first system anchored by a group of players with professional potential, while continuing to develop the offensive instincts that helped him lead OHL rookie defensemen in scoring during his breakout year.