Wisconsin winger Michael Mersch has decided to return for his senior season in
Michael Mersch
Madison, rather than turn pro.
Mersch was a fourth round NHL Draft pick by the Los Angeles Kings in 2011.
AUDIO: Mersch said it felt best to return to UW :13
The announcement is good news for Mike Eaves’ Badgers, who last week lost sophomore Brendan Woods two years early to sign with the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes.
Mersch scored 23 goals this season, fourth most in College Hockey.
AUDIO: Mersch says if they stay together, next season could be special :17
Besides Mersch, it’s likely that teammates Mark Zengerle, Tyler Barnes, Nic Kerdiles and Jake McCabe will return as well. With that group, Wisconsin figures to be a serious contender to win the new Big Ten Hockey Conference and make a run at the National Championship next season.