For Immediate Release: February 15, 2016

MCFARLAND MAKES NHL DEBUT

Third Former Cyclone to Make NHL Debut This Season

Cincinnati, OH- Former Cyclones forward John McFarland made his National Hockey League (NHL) debut on Saturday night with the Florida Panthers, in their 5-0 loss to the Nashville Predators. McFarland logged 8:41 of ice time, while dishing out a pair of hits and two blocks.

“We are excited to see John make his NHL debut,” remarked Cyclones Head Coach Matt MacDonald. “John is a great player, and showed every night how dynamic he could be while in Cincinnati.”

A native of Richmond Hill, ONT, McFarland spent parts of the 2012-13 and 2013-14 seasons with the Cyclones, appearing in 43 games and recording 20 goals and 18 assists. The 23-year-old was a pivotal part in Cincinnati’s run to the 2014 Kelly Cup Finals, accounting for nine points (4g, 5a) in 12 playoff games that season.

Drafted by the Florida Panthers in the second round (#33 overall) of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, McFarland spent the first 43 games this season with the Portland Pirates of the American Hockey League (AHL), accounting for 14 goals and eight assists, along with 22 penalty minutes. Since turning pro in 2013, McFarland has appeared in 221 games between the Cyclones, Pirates, and the AHL’s San Antonio Rampage, recording 59 goals and 58 assists, for 117 points. 

McFarland joins Byron Froese and Logan Shaw as former Cyclones to make their NHL debut this season.

The 2015-2016 season is underway! Your Cyclones are on the march towards another Kelly Cup Championship, and want you along for the ride! Be sure to check out one of our 2015-16 Ticket Packages, available NOW! Call 513.421.PUCK to reserve your seats. Fans can also get the latest team updates on Facebook, Twitter (@CincyCyclones), Instagram, and our website, www.cycloneshockey.com