Wisconsin Badgers Hockey Star Signs Major League Deal

Jack Horbach, a sixth-year Wisconsin Badgers men's hockey player, has signed an AHL contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins for the 2026-27 season. The Penguins' affiliate in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton already clinched a playoff berth this year. Horbach spent his entire four collegiate seasons playing on Madison's ice and scored 39 career points, including 16 goals and 23 assists throughout 142 games played.

Of particular note is the game-winning goal he scored in the Badgers' Regional Semifinal matchup against Dartmouth during this year’s NCAA tournament. The forward also received a Mike Richter Most Competitive Player Award as a sophomore, earning career highs in goals (6), assists (8), and points (14). The Pittsburgh Penguins have signed defenseman Maleek McGowan, who Horbach spent four years with at Ohio State and Michigan, as well as another defenseman from the Ontario Hockey League.

The team's third signing is forward Jack Horbach. Contact or follow @TheBadgersWire on X for updates on Wisconsin Badgers news, notes, and opinion.