On Thursday September 17th, the Rapid City Rush announced the signing of Canadian centreman Gary Haden. The two sides agreed to terms on a standard player contract for the upcoming season. Haden, from Airdrie, Alberta, will make his pro debut with the Rush hockey club. He signed following the conclusion of his overage WHL season.
Haden, who stands at 5’10 and 170 pounds, has been playing major junior hockey in the WHL since 2016. He grew into a prolific scorer, posting over 40 points in each of the last three seasons. He then posted over 50 in each of the last two.
Haden began his career with the Medicine Hat Tigers in the WHL. He remained with the club until 2018-19. Eight games into the campaign, the centreman was traded to the Saskatoon Blades. There, he would put up 30 goals along with 32 assists in 62 games. He did so while playing with Kirby Dach, future third overall pick in the NHL Draft.
Haden had another strong year in 2019-20 for the Victoria Royals, posting 25 goals along with 30 assists, totals he would amass in 62 games. His final season was cut short in March when the league halted play due to COVID-19.
All in all, Haden posted 80 goals along with 90 assists for 170 points. He did so in 232 games. His scoring acumen can be accredited to on-ice vision as well as crisp passing. Haden will have every opportunity to develop his offensive ability playing with the Rush.
Before joining the WHL, Haden was a champion in the AMHL. While playing for the UFA Bisons U18 AAA, Haden was named to the league’s First-All-Star Team. As recent signings, Haden joins Shawn Boutin, Jake Wahlin, Gabe Chabot, Peter Quennville, Joey Sides and Bo Brauer. The 2020-21 season is set to begin on the fourth of December.