Penn State men’s hockey has added another experienced offensive weapon to its roster, landing former Michigan commit Justin Larose, according to a report from Onward State.
Larose, a 21-year-old forward from Saint-Lazare, Quebec, arrives in Happy Valley after completing an impressive five-year career in the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). The 5-foot-9, 174-pound left-shot forward developed into one of the league’s premier scorers and served as captain of the Newfoundland Regiment during his final season of junior eligibility.
Larose enjoyed a breakout campaign in 2025-26, posting career highs with 32 goals and 56 assists for 88 points in 64 regular-season games. His 88-point season ranked fourth in the QMJHL, while his 40 power-play points and 292 shots on goal both finished second in the league, highlighting both his offensive creativity and willingness to generate scoring chances.
He continued his strong play into the postseason, recording five goals and four assists in 12 playoff games while helping Newfoundland advance to the second round of the QMJHL Playoffs.
Larose’s commitment comes after an unexpected change in plans. He originally committed to Michigan in June 2025 but opted to return to junior hockey for one final season rather than joining the Wolverines immediately. As recently as early July, Larose was still expected to suit up for Michigan during the 2026-27 campaign. However, when the Wolverines announced their incoming freshman class, his name was absent, paving the way for Penn State to secure his commitment.
Add Nittany Sports Now as a preferred source in Google! Click here to add us.Before joining Newfoundland, Larose spent four seasons with the Victoriaville Tigres before being dealt to the Drummondville Voltigeurs midway through the 2024-25 season. He totaled 61 points that year before taking another significant step offensively during his final junior season.
Over 321 career QMJHL regular-season games, Larose amassed 113 goals and 155 assists for 268 points, establishing himself as one of the league’s most consistent offensive performers.
His addition gives head coach Guy Gadowsky another proven veteran scorer as Penn State continues to build a roster capable of competing for another Big Ten championship and making a deep NCAA Tournament run.
