KELOWNA, BC – FEBRUARY 8: Cross Hanas #71 of the Portland Winterhawks stands on the ice during warm up against the Kelowna Rockets at Prospera Place on February 8, 2020 in Kelowna, Canada. (Photo by Marissa Baecker/Getty Images)
Today, the Detroit Red Wings signed top scoring prospect Cross Hanas to a three-year entry-level contract. The Red Wings had until June to sign Hanas or risk losing him to free agency.
Hanas was a 2nd round pick, #55 overall of the Red Wings in 2020.
Hanas has played his entire junior career with the Portland Winterhawks in the WHL. Hanas is currently in his 4th season with Portland. In his rookie season in 2018-19, Hanas scored eight goals and 22 points in 67 games. After scoring 22 goals, 27 assists, 49 points, and a +20 rating in his 2nd season, Hanas was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings.
Last year, the Covid-19 pandemic delayed the WHL season, so Hanas started the year playing for Lincoln in the USHL. In 27 games, Hanas scored three goals and 16 points. After the WHL started, Hanas played six games for Portland and scored two goals and four points.
The unsigned Hanas was invited to the Red Wings Prospects Tournament for the first time last summer. He showed grit, speed, and a willingness to play in the difficult areas.
After leaving the Red Wings rookie camp, Hanas started the season a bit slow, but picked up steam and hasn’t looked back. Portland are one of the top teams in the CHL and Hanas is the top scorer. In 53 games, Hanas has scored 22 goals, 48 assists, 70 points, and a +24 rating.
Hanas is very well known for his “Michigan” style goals. He should be a fan favorite when he debut’s in the AHL. His debut could be this year if his Portland team is eliminated early enough from the WHL playoffs. Hanas is expected to play for Grand Rapids (AHL) on a full-time basis next year.
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