Dillan Bentley, a Peoria native, has taken a significant step in his professional hockey career. He recently signed a two-year, one-way contract with Laval of the American Hockey League (AHL). This agreement ensures that Bentley will remain under contract until the end of the 2027-28 season.
Advancing Towards the NHL
The contract guarantees Bentley an AHL salary, regardless of whether he is assigned to a lower level of professional hockey. His potential debut with Laval, a class-AAA primary affiliate of the Montreal Canadiens, could occur this spring.
Bentley is among a select few, believed to be only the third player from Peoria or the Peoria Youth Hockey Association (PYHA) to achieve this level of professional hockey.
Early Life and Development
- Bentley grew up in Peoria, Illinois.
- He began his hockey journey in the Peoria Youth Hockey Association as a house league player.
- Kevin Lune, a former Peoria Rivermen winger, inspired Bentley to join travel teams.
- Jean-Guy Trudel, head coach of the Peoria Rivermen, played a pivotal role in his development.
During his youth, Bentley was coached by Trudel, who later recruited him for the Peoria Mustangs NA3HL junior team. In the 2019-20 season, he tallied 30 goals in 46 games, which helped elevate his career to New Mexico in the NAHL the following season.
College Success at UMass-Lowell
Bentley spent four years at UMass-Lowell, where he served as an assistant captain. He scored 14 goals in 33 games in his final season, topping the team’s scoring list. Throughout his college days, Bentley reflected on his hockey journey, noting the passion that drove him to excel.
Future Aspirations
As Bentley prepares for this new chapter, he expresses gratitude for the guidance he received from his mentors. “I couldn’t be here without him,” he stated, referring to Trudel’s influence. Bentley aims to continue growing as a player, appreciating the support he received throughout his career.
Joining an Exclusive Group
Bentley is set to join a select group of Peoria hockey players who have reached the AHL or higher. Notable players in this category include:
- Tage Thompson, who has become an NHL star after passing through the AHL.
- Ric Olson, who played for the Peoria Prancers in 1982-83.
- Brothers Butch and Karson Kaebel from Pekin, who contributed to the Peoria franchise.
- Bryce Aneloski, another Pekin-born player who reached the AHL.
As Bentley embarks on this promising journey, his dedication to the sport and hard work may lead to significant opportunities in his professional hockey career.
