MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – One of the top college hockey players in the country said Wednesday he’s coming back for another season at the University of Minnesota.

Nick Bjugstad, one of the Gophers’ best players and a draft choice of the Florida Panthers, said Thursday he’s coming back to Minnesota for another season, according to team officials. Bjugstad was an All-WCHA selection last year and second team All-America pick after scoring 42 points in 40 games as a sophomore.

He led the Gophers with 25 goals and had 17 assists. He’s a center for the team’s top line.

The Gophers returned to the NCAA Frozen Four last season after missing the NCAA playoffs in each of the past three seasons. Bjugstad’s return means the Gophers will likely enter the season ranked No. 1 in the nation.