Falcons Add Experienced, Physical Forward Nick McHugh

FRESNO, Calif. — The Fresno Falcons have signed forward Nick McHugh for the 2026-27 season, adding another experienced and physical presence to the club’s forward group.

McHugh was recently acquired by Fresno in a trade with the Blue Ridge Bobcats and brings a résumé that includes extensive major junior experience, proven FPHL production and time in the SPHL.

The 27-year-old native of Gloucester, Ontario gives Fresno a forward capable of contributing offensively while also playing with the physical edge the Falcons have continued to add throughout the offseason.

Before beginning his professional career, McHugh spent several seasons in the Ontario Hockey League.

He developed primarily with the Kitchener Rangers before later joining the Mississauga Steelheads, giving him significant experience in one of the top major junior leagues in North America.

That background helped McHugh develop a well-rounded game.

He can skate, handle the puck and create offense, but he is also comfortable playing through contact and competing in the harder areas of the ice.

McHugh is willing to finish checks, battle along the boards and use his physicality to create space. He can pressure opposing defensemen with his speed while bringing enough edge to make himself difficult to play against over the course of a game.

That combination has carried over into his professional career.

McHugh joined Blue Ridge late in the 2023-24 season, appearing in eight games and recording one goal and three assists.

His first full FPHL season came the following year, when he took a major step forward offensively.

During the 2024-25 campaign, McHugh recorded 14 goals and 25 assists for 39 points in 48 games with the Bobcats.

He finished second on Blue Ridge in scoring while posting a plus-12 rating, becoming one of the club’s more reliable forwards throughout the season.

The production showed McHugh could contribute consistently at the FPHL level without taking away from the physical side of his game.

His performance also earned him another opportunity in the SPHL.

During the 2025-26 season, McHugh appeared in 23 games with the Quad City Storm, recording two goals and seven assists for nine points.

He later returned to Blue Ridge and immediately became productive again, recording four goals and six assists for 10 points in 15 games with the Bobcats.

That experience at multiple levels gives Fresno another forward who understands how to adjust to different roles.

McHugh does not have to be relied upon exclusively for scoring to make an impact.

He can contribute on the forecheck, win puck battles, finish checks and create space for more offensive-minded linemates. At the same time, his 39-point season with Blue Ridge showed he is more than capable of producing when given offensive opportunities.

For Fresno, that versatility makes him another valuable addition to a forward group with plenty of skill already in place.

McHugh can play alongside skilled forwards and help retrieve pucks, or he can be used in a heavier role when Fresno needs more physicality and pressure.

That style should fit well with the identity the Falcons have continued to build.

Fresno has added scoring throughout the offseason, but the roster has also increasingly featured players willing to make the game difficult on opponents.

McHugh brings both sides.

He has the skill to make plays with the puck and the willingness to compete for it when Fresno does not have possession.

With Nick McHugh officially signed, the Falcons add another experienced, competitive forward as the club continues preparing for opening night and the return of professional hockey to Selland Arena.

Season memberships for the 2026-27 Fresno Falcons season are on sale now. Secure your seats today and be part of every home game as Falcons hockey returns to Selland Arena.

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