It’s that lovely time of year. A bunch of 18 year olds, some getting ready to go to college while others are electing to play juniors, are preparing for the rest of their hockey lives.

What team is going to draft me?  Where will I end up? Will I even play for the team that does draft me?

There are so many questions and so many variables that go into this weekend. One things for sure, these kids have earned every right to enjoy this weekend and all the draft has to offer them!

Who does Michigan have representing them in this year’s draft?

Phil Di Giuseppe just finished his freshman year in the maize and blue uniform. Going into the world junior tournament last December, he was third in overall points on the team with 14 (6 goals and 8 assists). He was selected to try out for Team Canada, but didn’t make the cut. He finished the season with 11 goals and 15 assists and was awarded CCHA All-Rookie Team Honorable Mention. He’s ranked 22^nd in the NHL Scouting Report.

The USA NTDP will give the Wolverines a few guys this fall.

Connor Carrick (defense), ranked 124^th in the NHL Scouting Report, has a good shot from the blue line. He’s not the biggest guy on the ice, but he’s a hard worker, the grinder type who won’t back down from anything. He’s also doesn’t back away from physical play, liking more to be involved in it than waiting in the wings. Many a time, I sat in the stands at the cube and Carrick was involved in some sort of scuffle. He’s smart on and off the ice and you can usually find him in the weight room.

Jacob Trouba (defense), ranked 9^th in the NHL Scouting Report, is being projected as a first round draft pick. Trouba has played for team USA in the last two World Junior Championships, winning two gold medals.

From Allan Muir:

Regarded as one of the best athletes in the draft, he’s a defenseman in the mold of Dion Phaneuf — nasty in his own end with the ability to make things happen in the offensive zone as well. He’s quick on his feet and makes the most of his size to intimidate opposing forwards. If there’s a chance to make the big hit, he’s happy to oblige. He’s aggressive with the puck and has a big bomb from the point. There are some questions about his ability to read the game defensively, but if a team thinks they can address this, Trouba could mature into a top-two defender.

Trouba has been in Pittsburgh since Wednesday participating in activities for the top prospects like taking batting practice at PNC Park and media day. Follow is twitter for updates.

I’ll be biting my nails over the next 24 hours while the draft is on…

A huge good luck to our Wolverines and just because, a huge good luck to Collin Olson (Ohio State)—favorite goalie ever!!, Brady Skjei (Minnesota), and Frank Vatrano (Boston College).