For NCAA players who aren’t drafted. Staying in school now is more appealing than it used to be. Why? NIL money, players transferring from the CHL, and finishing your education. All of those options weren’t always available.  

As far as his decision to come back, some of those things were in play. The transfer portal is producing Ben Robertson, a talented shot-blocking defenseman with some offense who was at Cornell. They also got offensive defenseman Henry Mews, who was with Sudbury last season and is a Calgary Flames prospect. 

“I spoke to my family, advisors, and coaches and we thought the best path was to come back and graduate,” said Hughes. “it’s hard to leave a place like this. We are building something here. Being so close in my freshman and sophomore years just two more wins and you win a National Championship.” 

Hughes did talk to NHL clubs. He will be a free agent after this, and he is setting himself up for success with his hockey career as well.  

“A few teams were interested,” Hughes revealed. “I built relationships with them. They like me as a player.” 

The summer is rapidly approaching, and Hughes wants to play hockey today. 

I’m really itching to get going.” 

At 5 ‘11”, 185 pounds Hughes is a sturdy player who can handle the rigors of professional hockey. He’s a two-way center who can skate and will lay the hit when necessary. 

Hughes will have a big season, and more teams will be interested in him next August.