The Hershey Bears announced they have signed defensemen Ryan Chesley and David Gucciardi to Amateur Tryouts (ATO) for the remainder of the season.
The Washington Capitals are expected to sign Chesley to a three-year entry level deal and Gucciardi to a two-year entry level contract at a later date.
Chesley was one of the captains for the Minnesota Golden Gophers this season and notched eight goals and 20 points in 40 games.
A second round pick of the Capitals in 2022, Chesley recorded 12 goals and 38 points in 115 career NCAA games with Minnesota.
The 21-year-old was named to the Big Ten Second All-Star Team and won a World Junior Championship gold medal with Team USA in 2024.
Gucciardi scored six goals and added 10 assists in 36 games for the Michigan State Spartans this season.
The 22-year-old had a great all-around four seasons for the Spartans, totalling 17 goals and 45 points in 139 career NCAA games.
The Toronto, Ont., native was originally selected in the seventh round of the 2022 draft by Washington.
This move provides some depth and upside potential for a Hershey Bears team that is looking to become the second team ever and first since the 1960-1962 Springfield Indians to win the Calder Cup three years in a row.
Keep an eye on The Hockey News Washington Capitals team site for more updates on the team's prospects.
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