Photo courtesy: Steve Hiscock

By CKPG Today

WHL

Cougars acquire sniper from Saskatoon

Jan 8, 2025 | 9:36 AM

PRINCE GEORGE — The Prince George Cougars have completed a trade with the Saskatoon Blades.

The Cats have acquired forward Ben Riche (05′) from the Saskatoon Blades in exchange for forward Hunter Laing, prospect Luke Dumas, a 2026 first-round pick, and a 2028 fifth-round pick.

Nineteen-year-old Riche has 54 points (23 goals, 31 assists) in 37 games for the Blades this year. His 54 points lead all Blades skaters and rank him sixth in WHL scoring.

“Ben is the type of player we were looking for,” said GM and Head Coach Mark Lamb. “He’s a dynamic left-shot centre with tremendous speed and offensive talent. He’s a real difference-maker.”

Riche is committed to playing NCAA Division I hockey at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, CT, following the conclusion of his junior career.

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Departing the Cougars is Calgary Flames prospect Hunter Laing. Over 110 games with the team, Laing tallied 21 goals and 26 assists.

“Hunter has been a great teammate and an important part of our group,” added Lamb. “The hardest part of hockey is saying goodbye to good players and great people.”

The Cougars return to action tonight as they battle the Vancouver Giants at 7:00 pm at the CN Centre.