On the last game day of the Western Hockey League regular season, Riley Heidt had an early start. He arrived at the Prince George Cougars rink around 8 a.m., where he signed a three-year, $2,850,000 entry-level contract with the Minnesota Wild. Despite the exciting news, Heidt still had a game to play for the Cougars that night.
Just two days before his 19th birthday, Heidt scored his first hat trick of the season in Prince George’s 5-2 victory over the Kamloops Blazers. This achievement marked a significant milestone for him as he continues his journey towards making his NHL debut with the Wild.
The Wild’s director of player development, Brad Bombardir, praised Heidt’s skills on the ice, highlighting his ability to maintain high speed while making plays. He noted that Heidt’s impressive performance in the WHL, where he ranked third overall in points for the season, demonstrates his potential to excel at the professional level.
Heidt’s competitive spirit was evident when he was not selected for Canada’s World Juniors roster last winter. This drive to prove himself could serve him well as he aims to secure a spot on the Wild roster for the upcoming season.
Having grown up in a hockey-loving family in Saskatoon, Heidt has been surrounded by the sport from a young age. His family’s support and his experience playing against tough opponents in the WHL have helped him develop into a skilled and strategic player.
Looking ahead, Heidt faces the decision of either making the Wild roster or returning to the WHL for another season. Regardless of the path he chooses, his dedication to improving both offensively and defensively will continue to shape his development as a player.
Teammates and opponents alike have recognized Heidt’s talent and work ethic, with many acknowledging his exceptional skills on the ice. As he embarks on the next stage of his hockey career, all eyes will be on Riley Heidt as he strives to make his mark in the NHL.