The Charlotte Checkers announced today that they have secured forward Riley Hughes and Phillip Tresca on AHL contracts, a move that bolsters the roster ahead of the upcoming season.
Hughes, a 26‑year‑old native of New York, brings a blend of professional experience and college pedigree. After being drafted by the New York Rangers in 2018, he honed his game with the Savannah Ghost Pirates, where he contributed 15 goals and 18 assists in 57 appearances and helped the club capture its first-ever Kelly Cup Playoff berth.
He also logged 31 games for the Checkers during the 2024‑25 regular season, posting eight points. His familiarity with the organization, combined with his proven scoring touch, makes him a valuable asset as the team looks to deepen its forward lines.
Tresca, at 24, arrives from Harvard University, where he completed a four‑year stint that included a standout senior season. He finished his collegiate career with 16 goals and 30 assists, setting personal bests of eight goals and 11 assists in his final year. Prior to Harvard, Tresca developed his skills with the USHL’s Muskegon Lumberjacks, laying the groundwork for his transition to the professional game.
College Success Meets Pro Ambition
Both signings reflect the Checkers’ strategy of mixing seasoned talent with emerging prospects. Hughes’ NHL draft background and playoff experience complement Tresca’s collegiate production and work ethic, creating a balanced mix that could prove decisive in the team’s quest for a deeper playoff run.
The moves also underscore the organization’s ties to a network of affiliated clubs and institutions. From the Savannah Ghost Pirates to Harvard and the Muskegon Lumberjacks, the Checkers continue to leverage a broad developmental pipeline, ensuring a steady flow of skilled players ready to contribute at the AHL level.