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Declan Smith Returns for Second Season

Friday, August 15th
Declan Smith Returns for Second Season

WICHITA, Kan. (Aug. 15) – The Wichita Thunder, ECHL affiliate of the NHL's San Jose Sharks, AHL's San Jose Barracuda and powered by Toyota, announced today the signing of forward Declan Smith for the 2025-26 season. 

Smith, 27, returns to the Air Capital after finishing his first full season as a pro. A native of Antigonish, Nova Scotia, the 6-foot, 200-pound forward tallied 14 points (7g, 7a) in 51 games last year. 

He came on in the middle of the season, recording eight points (3g, 5a) over a six-game span from February 1 to February 15. Smith had a career-high three points (2g, 1a) against Allen on February 7 in a 7-3 win and was named as the first star of the game. 

Prior to turning pro, he completed a four-year career at St. Francis Xavier University (USports). Smith recorded the game-winner in the fourth overtime against Acadia in the AUS quarterfinal to clinch the series during his senior campaign.

He had a career-high 23 points (11g, 12a) in 28 games in 2023-24 and had five points (4g, 1a) in five playoff games. He finished with 45 points (22g, 23a) in 98 career-games for the X-Men. In 2019-20, Smith was named as the team's rookie of the year.

Opening Night is set and on the calendar! Mark it down, we open our 2025-26 campaign against the Allen Americans on Saturday, October 18. Click HERE to read more and bring out a group.

Season tickets are now on sale for the 2025-26 season. Lock in your seats and catch all the high paced, hard-hitting action at INTRUST Bank Arena. Click HERE now to learn how you can get your seats reserved and start paying now.

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