Jackson Blake, Hobey Baker Finalist, Inks Deal with the Carolina Hurricanes

Wednesday, April 10th, 2024

Jackson Blake, known for his standout performance as a forward at the University of North Dakota and being in the running for the Hobey Baker Award, has officially joined the Carolina Hurricanes according to the team's announcement.

The agreement with the Hurricanes for Blake kicks in this season, with his NHL earnings set at $775,000 for the current year, then increasing to $832,500 for the next two years. Over the span of the contract, his salary in the AHL remains constant at $80,000 annually, complemented by a signing bonus of $277,500.

Don Waddell, the general manager of the Hurricanes, acknowledged Blake's significant role in North Dakota's achievements and highlighted his creative skills on the ice. Waddell is eager to see how Blake will adapt and perform in the professional arena.

Blake is following in the footsteps of his father, Jason Blake, who had a 13-season tenure in the NHL and wore the USA jersey in international play. The Hurricanes had earlier selected Jackson Blake in the fourth round of the 2021 draft.

During his tenure at UND, Blake quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the country's leading collegiate players. He topped the charts for the Fighting Hawks in points in his first year and continued his impressive form in his second year, amassing 22 goals and 38 assists, totaling 60 points.

Although UND clinched the NCHC regular-season championship, their journey ended in the conference tournament and the NCAA Division I men's tournament. Nonetheless, Blake's outstanding performance throughout the season secured him a nomination for the prestigious Hobey Baker Award, the winner of which will be revealed on Friday.

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