What's next for Michigan's hockey team now that junior goaltender Erik Portillo has signed an amateur tryout agreement with the AHL's Ontario Reign? The 2019 third-round draft pick (67th overall) of the Buffalo Sabres had his rights traded to the Los Angeles Kings last month for a third-round pick in the 2023 NHL Draft. He was also Michigan's starting goaltender for two seasons, most recently extending his Big Ten unbeaten streak to a perfect 8-0, helping Michigan to its second Big Ten tournament championship and Frozen Four appearance. Portillo's .908 save percentage and a 3.00 GAA and had four 40-plus save performances don't tell the full story of just how integral he was to Michigan's success over the past two seasons.

Portillo's tryout agreement puts him one step closer to an NHL contract this offseason, and also leaves big shoes for Michigan to fill, considering Portillo's two straight Big Ten Tournament championships, two Frozen Four appearances, and 60 wins. It remains to be seen who exactly fills those shoes. Portillo's backup, Noah West, is currently in the transfer portal, but he may return, and Michigan has landed a skilled goalie recruit in Marcus Brannman.