On Tuesday August 18th, the Allen Americans announced another big signing for the 2020-2021 season. The team agreed to terms with centreman Zane Franklin on a standard player agreement. The 5’9, 205 pound forward joins the Allen Americans from the Western Hockey League where he finished last season with the Kamloops Blazers.
Before that, he spent two seasons with the Lethbridge Hurricanes as their alternate captain. In Franklin’s first season in Kamloops, he continued to wear the A and was promoted to captain for the 2019-20 season. The 21-year-old rookie not only brings qualities of leadership to Allen, but also significant firepower offensively.
While with the Kamloops Blazers, Franklin recorded 28 goals along with 40 assists while in his first season there. In a total of 68 games, the right-handed shooter amassed 68 points. During the 2019-20 season, Franklin exploded offensively and scored 29 goals along with 62 assists. That made for 91 points which the forward collected in 68 games.
In a statement from Steve Martinson, head coach of the Allen Americans, he said of Allen’s newest addition, “Zane (Franklin) will be one of the new guys that can chop the wood and carry the water.”
Zane Franklin said himself in the press release, “I’m very excited to get an opportunity to play in the great state of Texas. I’m looking forward to getting back on the ice and joining my new teammates in Allen.”
Franklin, a native of Alberta, joins a skilled offensive corp with the Allen Americans. Previously announced signings include Spencer Asuchak, Jared VanWormer, Braylon Shmyr, Josh Lammon, Patrick Watling and Corey Durocher.