GRAND FORKS, N.D. – Fifth year defenseman Garrett Pyke has inked a multi-year contract with the AHL's Colorado Eagles, the team announced on Friday. The Eagles are the AHL affiliate of the Colorado Avalanche.

Pyke will play the remainder of the 2023-24 season on an amateur tryout (ATO) before beginning a two-year, one-way AHL deal through 2025-26.

The Toronto, Ontario, native was a steady force along the blueline for North Dakota during his one season with the program, appearing in 39 games. He finished with three goals and 22 assists to sit second on the team with 25 points by defenseman. Pyke scored his first goal in a UND sweater in a win over Bemidji State before also potting goals in contests against Colorado College and at St. Cloud State.

He posted four multi-point games, including a five-assist weekend in a sweep over Minnesota State, as well as a pair of helpers in a win over his former team to begin 2024. Pyke also finished second on the team with 56 blocked shots, was fourth with a plus-11 rating and paced the squad in ice time (20:45).

Pyke could make his professional debut as soon as this weekend in a two-game series at the Henderson Silver Knights.

For more information on North Dakota hockey, follow on social media @UNDmhockey or visit FightingHawks.com.