"We are very excited to have the opportunity to help Aiden develop; it what will be his first and only season of junior hockey, but a special one, here in New Hampshire," said Avalanche head coach and general manager Chris Cerrella. "Aiden is a very hard-working young man and a tremendous student, and he for sure will find success at the college level, not only on the ice but in the classroom as well. I could not be happier for Aiden and his family to have a chance not only to play college hockey at Tufts, but to also earn his college degree from one of the top academic schools in the country. Good luck to the Lovett family!"

As Cerrella mentioned, this will be Lovett's first and only season of junior hockey, despite the fact that he still technically would have another season of eligibility left after this year. However, the young forward is ready for college, and now has the rest of this season to prepare and gear up for the next level.

"I am very excited to be continuing my athletic and academic careers at a such a prestigious university as Tufts," said Lovett. "I'm also excited to play on the Avalanche for Coach Cerrella, and further develop my game in an environment that will fully prepare me for college hockey. Every day Coach Cerrella and my teammates bring a collegiate level of skill and intensity to the rink, and I can't wait to further improve my game here in Hooksett!"

The top-ranked Avalanche, according to the most recent EHL Power Rankings, have a big weekend in front of them as they return to action for the first time since the All-Star Break. The schedule includes a pair of matchups with the #2-ranked Vermont Lumberjacks, on Saturday (7:00pm) and Sunday (12:00pm).

Learn more about the Avalanche on the team's official website, and check out the full 2019-20 NCAA commitment list.