Former Janesville Jets' captain Joey Hyten brings offensive instincts and leadership to the Nanooks
After just four USHL games following his advancement from the North American Hockey League, Joey Hyten has a collegiate home. He announced his commitment to the University of Alaska–Fairbanks this morning. The Edwardsville, IL, native spent his first two seasons of junior hockey with the North American Hockey League's Janesville Jets, including 2025-26 where he served as captain.
During that campaign donning the "C," Hyten accumulated 72 (31 goals + 41 assists) throughout 59 outings. Those numbers were best on Janesville in all three offensive categories and Hyten's 31 markers were seventh leaguewide.
I previously listed Hyten as one of the top uncommitted NAHL players and Tri-City secured his services 38th Overall in 2026 Phase II USHL Draft. The Storm need all the offense he can provide, as they scored a league last 152 goals in 2025-26.
Fairbanks is slated to lose their two graduate students and one senior following the 2026-27 season. All three of those players transferred in for this year. Hyten could prove invaluable in creating consistent offense without relying on the portal for repeated reinforcements.
Tri-City alternate captain Evan Sofikitis spoke highly of his fellow letter wearer to me. "Over this short span of the season so far Joey is an outstanding twoway player who can play in all situations on the ice and lead a team," Sofikitis said. "He is an amazing person and leader who brings maturity and good character to any room he’s in.
The Storm have utilized Hyten as their top line center throughout the first quartet of contests this year. I anticipate that pattern continues throughout the campaign and could cause Tri-City to sneak up on other USHL squads. Tri-City's travels to Lincoln Oct. 2 at 7:05pm CT while the Nanooks host Boston University that same day at 10:07pm
