Minnesota forward Jimmy Snuggerud announced he will be returning to the Gophers for his junior season, according to a University of Minnesota press release sent out Tuesday

“I am excited to announce I’m coming back to the University of Minnesota next season,” Snuggerud said in the release. “It was a tough ending to this season, and I feel like we have some unfinished business to accomplish.” 

The St. Louis Blues drafted Snuggerud with the 23rd overall pick in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft and currently hold his signing rights.

The Chaska, Minnesota native had 21 goals and 34 points for the Gophers this season and earned an All-Big Ten First Team honor.

“I am committed to this team and excited for the opportunity next year with the Gophers,” Snuggerud said in the release. “I watched Brock Faber come back for his junior year and I feel like I can take the same path as Brock to the NHL, and help the Gophers win a national championship.”

The Gophers season ended on Saturday after they lost 6-3 to Boston University in the regional championship of the NCAA Tournament.

Minnesota was in a similar situation last year when Gophers star forward Logan Cooley announced a return to the program following the season’s conclusion. Two months after his announcement, Cooley opted to sign an entry-level contract with the Arizona Coyotes.