Cougars standout Heidt signs entry-level contract with the Minnesota Wild

Prince George, B.C.- Prince George Cougars forward Riley Heidt has signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Minnesota Wild, the teams announced Saturday.

“It’s super exciting for me and my family,” Heidt said. “There has been a lot of hard work since I was a little kid. This is another step to reaching my dream. I can’t thank my teammates, coaches, and staff around me who have developed me as a player. That being said, there’s big things ahead right now with our team here and now I’m just focused on that.”

The Saskatoon, Sask. product was selected by Minnesota in the second round, 64th overall in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft.

Heidt is enjoying a career-best season while powering the Prince George Cougars to a B.C. Division title and a shot at clinching first in the WHL’s Western Conference.

The 18-year-old has tallied 34 goals and 80 assists for 144 points in 65 games.

Heidt has left an indelible mark on the Northern Capital, racking up 277 points (82 goals, 195 assists) in 220 WHL games with the Cougars.

This marks the most points and assists by a Cougars player since the franchise relocated to Prince George in 1994.

He’s also added three goals and eight assists in 12 postseason contests.

“It was only a matter of time,” Cougars General Manager and Head Coach Mark Lamb said. “He’s a very motivated player who leads our team in many categories on and off the ice. He’s a special person who takes great pride in being the best he can be.”

Heidt and the Cougars wrap up their regular season against the Kamloops Blazers on home ice, with puck drop set for 6:00 p.m. PST at the CN Centre.