NHSL Player Update - Where guys are going next

The Pacific Hockey League (PHL) has been a talking point recently among Australian Ice Hockey fans. 

A new league – which will include include a team in New Zealand in 2023 – is scheduled to start this winter. It’s a league by the players, for the players. 

The Brisbane Rampage, The Coast, the Melbourne Ducks, and the Adelaide Avalanche have all entered a team in the 2022 competition so far. With the announcement of teams, players followed.

It’s been a lot to follow so here’s a run-down of NHSL players who have committed to playing in the newly formed PHL.

Joey MacDougall (Adelaide Xtreme): The Xtreme captain and marquee player had a big season by putting up 13 points in 7 games with the minor premiers. He has a strong two way game and is one of the big leaders in South Aussie ice hockey.

Nathaniel Benson (Adelaide Xtreme): The NHSL’s #1 overall pick was the next player to follow suit. Benson was second in the NHSL in scoring this year when he put up 16 points. He’s only 21 and getting better with each game. One of the best offensive talents in the country.

Jake Riley (Noarlunga Stars): The Stars’ marquee player is one of the most intriguing prospects in Australian Ice Hockey. He’s a slick skater and has exceptional skill. He can score goals on command.

Jared Siemens (Adelaide Xtreme): Siemens has built a reputation on playing smart, two-way hockey. He played forward and defense for the Xtreme this year and breaks out some silky smooth passes from time-to-time.

Daniel Chen (Noarlunga Stars): He turned 18 mid-season and made an immediate impact as soon as he stepped in the line up. His four goals and three assists in 5 games played shows the impact he can have.

Steve Best (Port Adelaide Brewers): Marquee players and NHSL All-Star, Best had 13 points in eight games this season. Best is one of the main leaders of the Brewers and has been dominating in Adelaide for ages.

Ben Handberg (Port Adelaide Brewers): One of the younger forwards in the competition, Handberg put up 7 points in his eight games this season. Known for his deadly shot and one timer. 

Noah Maley (Adelaide Xtreme): Hard-nosed and hard-working, Maley is the kind of player you love to have on your team but would hate to play against.

Andrew Chen (Adelaide Xtreme): Young and skilled defenseman Andrew Chen has had a solid year with the Xtreme. He skates well and moves the puck well.

Jeremy Friederich (Adelaide Xtreme): The first goalie to commit. Jeremy was a marquee player for a reason. He stole the show in Game 2 of the NHSL finals, making 40 saves in the win.