BUFFALO, N.Y. — Michigan defenseman Owen Power has elected to return to school for his sophomore season rather than make the jump to the NHL after being selected with the No. 1 pick by the Buffalo Sabres in the draft last month.

Power’s decision does not come as a surprise after saying he was leaning toward returning to Michigan in the weeks leading up to the draft.

The 18-year-old from Mississauga, Ontario, cited wanting more time to develop and having the opportunity to enjoy a normal college year.