IceRays Add Blue Line Depth to Gear Up for Postseason Push
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX — Chief Executive Officer Steve Donner announced today that the Corpus Christi IceRays have acquired defenseman Joel Hanson from the Kenai River Brown Bears in exchange for a 2027 2nd round pick.
Hanson, 20, joins the IceRays after spending the past three seasons with the Brown Bears, where he appeared in 126 games and recorded 24 career points. A steady and reliable presence on the blue line, Hanson brings valuable experience along with a strong defensive foundation as Corpus Christi prepares for a critical playoff push.
Standing at 6-foot-4 and 207 pounds, the left-shot defenseman adds size, reach, and physicality to the IceRays back end. Known for his ability to play a responsible two-way game, Hanson has shown continued development offensively, posting a career-high 10 points this season while also logging 14 penalty minutes in 34 games.
“We’re excited to add a player like Joel to our lineup,” said Donner. “He brings size, experience, and a physical presence that we feel will really strengthen our blue line. As we get closer to the postseason, adding a defenseman with his maturity and work ethic is an important step for our group.”
A native of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Hanson is expected to provide depth, stability, and a physical edge to the IceRays defensive corps as the team gears up for the stretch run. His experience and composure will be key assets as Corpus Christi looks to build momentum heading into the postseason.
NEXT SERIES
The IceRays are back on the road next weekend in El Paso, Texas, as they clash with the El Paso Rhinos on Friday and Saturday, January 30 & 31. Puck drop on both nights is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. MT. Tune in to the games live on NAHLtv or listen for free on the Retro Radio CC app. The pregame show kicks off 15 minutes prior to puck drop.
NEXT HOME SERIES
Corpus Christi returns to the Hilliard Center February 6 & 7 when they host the New Mexico Ice Wolves in a two-game weekend series. The weekend is headlined by Stars and Stripes Night on Saturday where all Veterans, Active-Duty Military, First Responders, and their family’s get in free! Up to four free tickets when you show your ID at the Hilliard Center Box Office. Stars and Stripes Night is presented by the U.S.S Lexington Museum and IBEW 278!
GRAB YOUR TICKETS NOW
Tickets start at just $5! Student and Active Military Tickets are available at the Hilliard Center Box Office with valid ID.
Grab yours now at www.goicerays.com, on Ticketmaster, or at the Hilliard Center box office
About Corpus Christi IceRays: The Corpus Christi IceRays, a member of the North American Hockey League playing out of the Hilliard Center in downtown Corpus Christi, TX. For more information or for all your ticketing needs, contact the IceRays Front Office at (361)-814-PUCK or visit www.GoIceRays.com . You can also follow the team through their social media platforms: Facebook @goicerays, Instagram @iceraysnahl, and Twitter @iceraysnahl
About North American Hockey League: Celebrating its 50th season in 2024-25, the NAHL, the only USA Hockey sanctioned Tier II Junior league boasting 35 teams in 20 states from North American. For more information, visit the NAHL website at https://nahl.com/
About Hilliard Center
Hilliard Center is Corpus Christi’s premier entertainment and event complex, proudly owned by the City of Corpus Christi and managed by Oak View Group. Named in partnership with Hilliard Law, a firm dedicated to service and community, the waterfront venue features a state-of-the-art arena, the historic Selena Auditorium, and a versatile convention center overlooking the scenic Corpus Christi Bay. With adaptable spaces, complimentary Wi-Fi, and premium food and beverage offerings, Hilliard Center is designed to deliver exceptional experiences as South Texas’ home for live entertainment, conventions, and community gatherings.
Visit HilliardCenter.com and follow the Hilliard Center on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok for the latest news and event updates.
About Oak View Group (OVG)
Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in premium live entertainment infrastructure and services, with a platform spanning venue development and end-to-end capabilities across venue management, hospitality, and sponsorship sales. Founded in 2015, the Company serves a collection of seven world-class owned venues and a client roster of the most iconic arenas, stadiums, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions, spanning four continents. Visit OakViewGroup.com, and follow OVG on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.
