Andrew Poturalski '12 Named AHL MVP

Andrew Poturalski ‘12 of the San Jose Barracuda was named the 2024-25 Les Cunningham Award winner, given to the most valuable player in the American Hockey League. The award was voted on by coaches, players, and media members representing each of the league’s 32 cities.

In just 59 games played, Poturalski tallied 30 goals and 43 assists to lead the league in total scoring with 73 points, despite missing more than three weeks at the end of the season. His 1.24 points-per-game average topped all qualified AHL skaters. 

Poturalski, who has worn a captain’s letter in each of the past four seasons with three different teams in the AHL, has grown into a leader and respected veteran in the locker room. Jamie Printz, who coached Poturalski for two seasons while he was at Nichols, knew how good the player was on the ice, but commended how much he’s worked off of it as well. 

“He works hard at his craft, but he’s just good to the people around him. He was quiet here. He’s definitely become more comfortable with who he is as he’s aged and matured. He’s got a great head on his shoulders and is really deserving of this honor, both on and off the ice.”

In addition to winning MVP, Poturalski was named a First Team AHL All-Star for the fourth time in his career and picked up his third JB Sollenberger Trophy, given annually to the player who leads the AHL in total scoring. 

RJ Gicewicz ‘12, a former Nichols teammate of Poturalski’s and current Nichols Director of Boys Youth hockey, applauded the forward’s work ethic en route to his first MVP award. 

“What separates ‘Pottsy’ from a lot of guys is the work he puts in every summer. He’s relentless. Even when I texted him after winning, he said, ‘Thanks, but there’s still a ton of work to do this summer. Can’t wait to get back at it.’ He just wants to be the best.”