THUNDER BAY – A fourth member of the 2023-24 Lakehead Thunderwolves has signed a professional contract.
Defenceman Troy Williams will make his professional debut on Friday night with the ECHL’s Wheeling Nailers.
Williams had two goals and seven points in 28 games for the Thunderwolves this past season. The 26-year-old had four goals and 16 assists in 90 OUA games over four seasons at Lakehead.
Griffen Fox, Colin Van Den Hurk and Tyler Jette earlier this month signed ECHL deals. Van Den Hurk signed with the Idaho Steelheads, Fox with the Fort Wayne Komets and Jette with the Wichita Thunder.
Lakehead also announced its first recruit for next season.
Swedish forward Malte Hasselgren, who had two assists in 12 games playing in Finland this season, has committed to play for the Thunderwolves in 2024-25. He had 20 goals and 26 assists in 58 games with the Oklahoma Warriors of the North American Hockey League in 2022-23.
“It’s been a dream to play college hockey, and to get this chance at Lakehead and in Canada is very fortunate. I have heard nothing but great things about the program as well as the community and the fans around the team. I am extremely excited to be skating out in Fort Williams Garden next year as I believe strongly in the program to take the next step and become contenders," Hasselgren said in a release.
Coach Andrew Wilkins has high hopes for his new forward.
“Malte is a player that adds high end skill and speed to our line up. We are excited to be a part of and continue Maltes future development. Adding a player that has championship pedigree brings a lot of value to our group," Wilkins said.
