A hockey player from Fort Collins has taken the next step in pursuit of a spot in the NHL.
Aidan Thompson signed an entry-level contract with the Chicago Blackhawks after finishing his college career at the University of Denver.
Thompson, a Fort Collins native, was selected by the Chicago Blackhawks in the third round of the 2022 NHL draft with the No. 90 overall pick. He played the last three seasons at Denver.
Chicago announced on April 12 that Thompson signed a two-year, entry-level contract. Thompson will join the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League on an PTO (Professional Tryout) for the remainder of the 2024-25 season.
The 23-year-old forward helped Denver win the 2024 national title, and the Pioneers returned to the Frozen Four in 2025 before falling in the semifinals. Thompson signed shortly after Denver was eliminated.
Thompson served as an alternate captain for Denver and notched college career highs in goals (21), assists (34) and points (55) in the 2024-25 season. His 55 points ranked second in the NCAA, while his 34 assists ranked third in the nation. His 21 goals were tied for second on the team.
Thompson is from Fort Collins and played for a variety of youth programs across Colorado. His early hockey days included playing for the Northern Colorado Youth Hockey Junior Eagles program.
