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Prince George Cougars

Hudson Thornton Signs AHL Contract with Hershey Bears

April 10, 2024 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Prince George Cougars News Release


PRINCE GEORGE, BC - The Prince George Cougars are excited to announce that 20-year-old captain Hudson Thornton has signed an AHL contract with the Hershey Bears, the affiliate of the Washington Capitals, for the 2024-2025 season.

"It's really exciting. It was one of my goals this year to try and earn myself a professional contract and I am super thankful for the opportunity, and will do everything I can to try and make that team next year," said Thornton.

Thornton, from Winnipeg, MB, has spent three seasons with the Cougars and has set numerous records within the organization. Among PG Cougar blue-liners in team history, Thornton owns the most goals (56), assists (140), points (196), and power-play goals (24).

"This is well deserving," said General Manager & Head Coach Mark Lamb. "He has earned it the right way."

The captain was selected in the second round by the Cougars, 33rd overall, in the 2018 WHL Prospects Draft. Before his time with the Cougars, Thornton spent his 16-year-old season with the Chilliwack Chiefs (BCHL), and the Fargo Force (USHL) in his 17-year-old season. Thornton joined the Cougars in his 18-year-old season and has turned into a staple on the Cougars' blue line.

"I wouldn't be here talking about a pro contract if it wasn't for my parents, my brothers, my grandparents, my teammates, and coaches. Prince George has done so much for me and has treated me so well, and it's certainly a first-class organization. I am confident I saying I maybe wouldn't have this opportunity if I wasn't here in Prince George, and again I can't thank the team and my teammates enough."

Just last week, Thornton was named a first-team BC Division all-star and was also the BC Division nominee for the WHL Defenceman of the Year.

Thornton joins teammate Zac Funk who signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Washington Capitals earlier this season.

Thornton and the Cougars are back in action for the Western Conference Semi-Finals on Friday night at the CN Centre at 7:00 pm against the Kelowna Rockets.

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