Edmonton Oilers forward Zach Hyman and his family have officially become the OHL’s Brantford Bulldogs owners, the league announced on Monday.

The ownership beyond Hyman includes his brother Spencer and his father Stuart, with whom they will have been transferred ownership from current Ottawa Senators owner Michael Andlauer. They will assume control of the operations beginning on January 16th.

The Bulldogs are temporarily in Brantford as their previous arena, the FirstOntario Centre in Hamilton, is undergoing renovations that are expected to be completed by 2025 at the earliest.

“Hockey is more than just a game for my family,” Hyman said in a press release issued by the OHL. “It teaches our youth about the importance of teamwork and it brings together communities.

“I am humbled and greatly appreciate the faith Michael has placed in me to continue his incredible legacy with such a storied franchise. Thank you to the Ontario Hockey League for giving me this opportunity to give back to the game I love. It is a privilege to work with such an incredible group of people and I can’t wait to get started. Go Dogs!”

Hyman has connections to the Hamilton area as he played for the OJHL’s Hamilton Red Wings from 2008 to 2011 before turning pro and committing to the University of Michigan. His dad was the owner of the franchise and continues to do so in their current form as the Markham Royals.

This marks his latest venture into avenues away from hockey. Hyman is also a best-selling children’s author who has written three books which has earned him accolades. He is currently working on his fourth book but the release date and subject matter remain unknown.

“It’s been an honour to be the owner of the Bulldogs, who have won two championship trophies and launched the careers of many successful players into the NHL,” Andlauer wrote in the press release. “Although it is time for me to focus on my new hockey world, I know that the new ownership of the Hyman family will continue to bring success for the Brantford Bulldogs organization on the ice and in this great community that has embraced us these past two years. To the coaches, players and staff of the team, I know you will continue to deliver a best-in-class product. To the Brantford fans – thank you for showing the OHL that you are the best place to play in junior hockey!”

Hyman is in the midst of a solid campaign as he is currently fourth on the Oilers in scoring with 25 points (14 goals and 11 assists) in 37 games played. He is in the fourth season of a seven-year contract that carries an AAV of $5.5 million that runs until 2028.