AMERKS SIGN HAYES TO PROFESSIONAL TRYOUT
Sep 30, 2026Rochester Americans General Manager Stacy Roest announced today that the team has signed defenseman Zack Hayes to a Professional Tryout (PTO).
Hayes, 27, joins the Amerks after recording two points (1+1) in 36 games with the Milwaukee Admirals (AHL) during the 2025-26 season. He registered 23 shots on goal, including a season-high three shots at Rockford on Dec. 12, 2025.
Since the start of the 2020-21 season, Hayes has recorded 35 points (10+25) and 192 penalty minutes across 214 career AHL games with the Chicago Wolves, Henderson Silver Knights, Milwaukee Admirals, Laval Rocket and Utica Comets. The 6-foot-3, 232-pound blueliner has also added three assists in 15 Calder Cup Playoff games with Utica, Henderson and Laval.
A native of Calgary, Alberta, Hayes spent the 2023-24 season with Sport Vaasa of Liiga, where he recorded nine points (1+8) and led the league with 119 penalty minutes before appearing in two playoff games.
Hayes also skated in three games with the Vegas Golden Knights during the 2021-22 season, making his NHL debut on March 21, 2022.
An undrafted defenseman, Hayes totaled 80 points (15+65) in 274 career games with the Prince Albert Raiders (WHL) and Canmore Eagles (AJHL) from 2015-20. He added five points (1+4) in 30 postseason games and helped Prince Albert capture the WHL championship in 2019.
Rochester opens its 71st American Hockey League season a home on Friday, Oct. 2 against the defending Calder Cup champion Toronto Marlies at The Blue Cross Arena. Season Ticket Memberships for the 2026-27 season, which start as low as $22 per game, are on sale now and come with several Members-only perks and benefits. Full and Half Season Membership options are also available. For more information on Amerks Season Tickets or to sign up today, call 585-454-5335 or visit www.amerks.com/memberships.