Top 5 forward prospects for Red Wings fans to know before the 2024 NHL Draft

Michael Hage, C/Chicago

Michael Hage may not have an impressive resume based on longevity, but don’t let the mere 67 games he’s played for the USHL’s Chicago Steel fool you. Hage may have logged just 10 points and five goals in 13 regular season games for the Steel in 2022-23, but he’s recently more than proven his worth. 

Hage had 75 points and 33 goals in 54 regular season games this past year, and in the postseason, he amassed another four and two goals in a pair of playoff appearances at the time of this writing. Hage, who just turned 18 in April, also doesn’t need to put on much size to his 6’1, 190 lbs frame. 

Given his limited experience in a league like the USHL and his better-than-average size, Hage is one of those high-potential products you take early, and hope he develops into everything you envision. He will have an opportunity to further prove himself in the college ranks, as he will be heading to the University of Michigan and continuing his career with the Wolverines. 

Overall, Hage will likely play at least three, if not all four seasons, of eligibility at Michigan, but with the Yzerplan going well in the Motor City, he would be worth the wait.