With his size and physicality, Michael Downing has been projected by many to have a future as a shutdown defenseman. While Downing hasn’t disproven that theory, the 20-year old blueliner has continued to prove that he is capable of more.
Entering his junior season, the Canton, Mich. native is coming off of a solid sophomore campaign with his hometown University of Michigan. Recording 22 points (6-16—22) in 36 games, Downing along with 2015 eighth overall draft pick Zach Werenski (Columbus Blue Jackets), were the team’s top two producing defensemen.
A self-described “two-way defenseman”, Downing ranked second among Michigan defensemen in both goals and points, while tying for the lead in assists.