Cougars rookie Parascak signs entry-level contract with Capitals

Washington, D.C. – Prince George Cougars forward Terik Parascak has signed a three-year, entry-level deal with the Washington Capitals. The team announced the signing on Friday afternoon during the fourth day of their annual development camp.

Parascak was selected 17th overall at the 2024 NHL Draft by the Capitals and was the fifth WHL player nabbed in the first round of the draft in Las Vegas, Nev.

Having skated in only four regular season games with the Cougars during the 2022-23 regular season, Parascak exploded onto the WHL scene in September 2023. In his first four appearances during the 2023-24 season, the recently turned 18-year-old collected 12 points (eight goals–four assists) – including a six-point night (four goals–two assists) against the Victoria Royals on September 29, 2023.

Dubbed ‘The Super Rookie’ across the WHL community, Parascak finished with 105 points (43 goals–62 assists) in his first full season with the Cougars organization to lead all WHL rookies in scoring.

“He is one of the smartest players I have ever coached with a desire to get better every day,” said Mark Lamb, General Manager and Head Coach of the Cougars. “He has earned this and the future is so exciting for the Prince George Cougars and Washington Capitals.”

The Caps prospect was one of 10 WHLers to break the 100-point plateau this season. He is also the first rookie since WHL alumnus Pavel Brendl in 1998-99 to hit the 100-point benchmark.

Parascak was also named a finalist for the 2024 WHL Rookie of the Year award.

He is joined by Cougars teammates Zac Funk and captain Hudson Thornton at the Capitals development camp.

Terik Parascak was surrounded by his guys when he signed his contract with the @Capitals 🥹 pic.twitter.com/KfAwBEoeuN

— Prince George Cougars (@PGCougars) July 5, 2024