Kalamazoo believes defenseman Philip Beaulieu provides offensive instincts and ability on the back end.
Having a blueliner that can play both ends of the ice is always a bonus.
The Kalamazoo Wings believe they now have such a player after announcing they have signed defenseman Philip Beaulieu to a Standard Player Contract (SPC) for the 2024-25 season.
The 28-year-old Duluth, MN native appeared in 20 games for Asiago (ICEHL) last season, scoring a goal and four assists for five points with 14 penalty minutes. He’s excited to be back playing in his home region.
“North American hockey is the style I’m used to and I’m very excited to be back playing in it,” Beaulieu said after the signing was announced. “Being from Minnesota, I’m pumped to be playing back in the Midwest and I’ve heard nothing but great things about Kalamazoo, the K-Wings organization, and the fans. I can’t wait to get the season going and see everyone at Wings Event Center!”
The 5-foot-11, 194-pound defender is in his fifth pro season. He made his professional debut in the ECHL with Allen in 2020-21, scoring 23 points (5g-18a) in 41 games, also suiting up in one AHL game for Iowa that season.
In 2021-22, Beaulieu was tied for No. 15 among ECHL defensemen in points with 38 (8g-30a) in 61 games for Allen, adding two assists in four Kelly Cup Playoff games. He played 39 games in 2022-23 with Worcester, picking up 17 assists.
Beaulieu starred at Northern Michigan University, scoring 118 points (26g-92a) in 157 games over four seasons (2016-20). He was named Second Team All-American in his sophomore season after scoring 11 goals and leading all NCAA defensemen with 31 assists and 42 points.
Beaulieu then earned back-to-back First Team All-WCHA honors in his junior and senior seasons, being named the conference’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2018-19 as a junior and serving as captain his final year with the Wildcats.
“Philip can play on both ends of the ice,” said Joel Martin, Kalamazoo Wings head coach and director of hockey operations. “He provides offensive instincts and ability on the back end.”
The K-Wings will continue building their roster this summer ahead of Training Camp in October. Check back often with The Hockey News for the latest transactions.