Minnesota Commit Clay Hanus Signs with WHL

The Portland Winterhawks of the WHL announced on Thursday that have signed Minnetonka High School freshman defenseman Clay Hanus to a player agreement. Hanus had previously been committed to the University of Minnesota, though signing with a WHL team effectively ends his NCAA eligibility.

Hanus is regarded as one of the top 2001-born defensemen in the nation, though most of his freshman season with Minnetonka was lost due to injury. He’s a smooth skater with a strong shot from the point.

Hanus is expected to join the Winterhawks next season, leaving Minnetonka HS.