Defenseman Hudson Thornton will continue his NCAA career with Bemidji State University for the 2025–26 season. The 21-year-old enters the Beavers lineup after gaining valuable experience across multiple levels of hockey last season.
Professional Experience
Thornton’s 2024–25 campaign gave him a taste of the professional pace. He spent most of the season with the Orlando Solar Bears, skating in 42 games and recording three goals and 11 assists for 14 points, along with 21 penalty minutes. In the Kelly Cup Playoffs, he chipped in two goals in seven games.
He also appeared in seven games with the South Carolina Stingrays, adding two penalty minutes. In addition, he earned a one-game call-up with the Hershey Bears.
In total, Thornton finished his first professional stretch with 49 ECHL regular-season games played, three goals, 11 assists, and 14 points, plus two goals in seven playoff appearances.
WHL Success and Leadership
Thornton built a standout junior career with the Prince George Cougars of the WHL. He served as both captain and alternate captain, putting up back-to-back 74-point seasons from the blue line. His 2023–24 campaign featured 18 goals and 56 assists in 68 games, along with 15 points in the playoffs.
That production earned him spots on the WHL (BC) First All-Star Team in 2024 and the Second All-Star Team in 2023.
Impact for Bemidji State
At 5’11” and 192 pounds, Thornton is a left-shot defenseman who brings offensive creativity, leadership, and experience to the Beavers’ back end. His ability to move the puck, quarterback a power play, and push the pace in transition makes him a key piece of Bemidji State’s plans for the upcoming season.
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