OHL Flint Firebirds

Chicago Blackhawks Sign Firebirds' Forward Gavin Hayes to Entry-Level Deal

Published on April 3, 2023 under Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
Flint Firebirds News Release


Flint, Mich. - The Chicago Blackhawks announced today the signing of Firebirds' forward Gavin Hayes to a three-year entry-level deal.

Chicago Blackhawks Announcement

"It's an unbelievable feeling signing my first NHL contract with such a great organization," Hayes said. "It still doesn't feel real yet but I know it will start to soon. I can't thank my parents enough for what they have done for me to get to this point and for everyone else that has supported me throughout my journey!"

Hayes finished the year with 81 points (41 G, 40 A) in 67 GP. His 41 G ranked 9th in the OHL and the 3rd most in a single season in Firebirds' history. He finished off the regular season as one of the hottest players in the league with 13 G and 7 A in just nine games in the month of March.

The Westland, Mich. native was selected by the Blackhawks in the 3rd round (#66 overall) in the 2022 NHL Draft after producing 19 G and 30 A in 65 GP in his first season with the Firebirds, a season that saw him set three franchise rookie records. All-time, Hayes now ranks 8th in both career points and goals in franchise history.

The Firebirds selected Hayes in the 1st round (#16 overall) of the 2020 OHL Priority Selection. Hayes and the rest of the Flint Firebirds return to action in the OHL Playoffs this Thursday night at 7:05 p.m. against the Saginaw Spirit.

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