(RAPID CITY, SD) – The Rapid City Rush, proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Minnesota Wild, would like to congratulate former Rush goaltender, Adin Hill, on making his National Hockey League debut last night with the Arizona Coyotes, becoming the second player in Rush history to play in the NHL.
Hill made his NHL debut, which also doubled as his first career NHL start with the former NHL affiliate of the Rush, the Arizona Coyotes. The 6’4”, 200-pound net-minder played in 58:25 of regulation last night against the Dallas Stars and stopped 31 of 33 shots on goal, suffering an unfortunate defeat to the Stars by a 3-1 final score.
“It was something you dream of since you were a child, and getting to start the game was a dream come true,” Hill said of his first career NHL start last night with Arizona. “Before the game and during the day, you think about it and get excited and nervous, but once you get to the rink and the puck drops, it’s hockey. It’s the same game I’ve played since I was 4. All of the other stuff just goes out of your head and you’re focused on the game.
“I felt comfortable with the pace of play and feel that I can play how I do at that level,” Hill continued. “I felt the same way after exhibition play with the Coyotes as well. Regarding Rapid City, I played some of my first games as a professional with the team and it was a great way to learn the pro game. It helped me prepare for Tucson, which in turn helped me prepare for the NHL, and I’m very appreciative of my time there.”
A native of Calgary, Alberta, Hill, 21, began the first year of his professional career last season. During his time in the Black Hills, Hill compiled a 1-3-1 record in 5 games, a 3.59 GAA, and 0.890 SV%. His only win with the Rush came on December 21st in a 4-0 win over the Alaska Aces, marking his second shutout as a pro. Prior to turning professional, Hill enjoyed a stellar junior hockey career with the WHL’s Portland Winterhawks, compiling a 67-28-7 record in 115 games, and was drafted by the Arizona Coyotes in the 2015 NHL Draft (3rd Rd-#76).
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