The next wave of UND hockey talent is officially turning pro. Senior standouts Ben Strinden and Ellis Rickwood, the team's top scorers, have inked their first professional contracts, capping stellar collegiate careers that saw them lead the Fighting Hawks to a Penrose Cup and an NCAA Frozen Four appearance.

Ben Strinden is taking his powerful game to the Milwaukee Admirals, the AHL affiliate of the Nashville Predators. The Fargo native, a 2022 seventh-round pick by Nashville, signed a two-year deal after a breakout senior season where he netted 15 goals and 35 points. He'll get a head start by finishing this season on a tryout with the Admirals.

Meanwhile, Ellis Rickwood is heading south to join the Texas Stars, the top farm team of the Dallas Stars. The undrafted free agent, who transferred from Clarkson, led UND with 37 points this season while anchoring a top line. His new journey includes a fun reunion, as he'll link up again with former Clarkson linemate Ayrton Martino in Austin.

These signings highlight the pipeline from Grand Forks to the pros, bringing the total to five players from this year's UND squad who have secured professional deals. As they trade their college sweaters for pro jerseys, Strinden and Rickwood are poised to make an immediate impact in the AHL, taking the next crucial step on hockey's toughest ladder.