Ben Hawerchuk has recently joined the South Carolina Stingrays. This acquisition finalized a trade on November 25, 2023, where the Stingrays traded defenseman Cole Fraser to Cincinnati in return for future considerations. Hawerchuk, originally from King City, Ontario, he is recognized for his career in junior hockey and minor leagues. He is the son of the late Dale Hawerchuk, who was inducted into the NHL Hockey Hall of Fame in 2001.
Hawerchuk competed in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the Barrie Colts and later joined the Niagara IceDogs. Known for his exceptional work ethic and skill as a forward, Hawerchuk has made a name for himself on the ice. Embarking on his sixth professional hockey season, he carries a wealth of experience gained from participating in 104 games in the ECHL. In the 2020-2021 season, he showcased his skills as a member of the Jacksonville Icemen, registering six goals and seven assists for a total of 13 points across 34 games.
The subsequent season saw him elevate his performance, notching 14 goals and 16 assists, culminating in a noteworthy 30 points throughout 47 games. Transitioning to the 2022-2023 season, he joined the Adirondack Thunder, where he impressed with 10 goals and 12 assists, resulting in a solid 22 points over 42 games. In the 2023-24 season he made a brief appearance for the Cincinnati Cyclones, skating in seven games and contributing eight points, achieved through two goals and six assists.
Throughout Hawerchuk’s professional career, he has also played in Sweden, Italy, and the United Kingdom. He has participated in 51 games abroad, dividing his time between Östersunds IK (HockeyEttan), Meran/Merano (AlpsHL), and the Fife Flyers (EIHL).
Hawerchuk will be joining the Stingrays as they face the Savannah Ghost Pirates at home on October 19th at 6:05 pm.
