Pharand joins the Clarkson Men’s Hockey program for the 2026–27 season following an accomplished five-year career in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), where he played for the Hamilton Bulldogs, Sudbury Wolves, and Windsor Spitfires.
A native of Sudbury, Ontario, Pharand appeared in 323 career OHL regular-season games, recording 74 goals and 110 assists for 184 points. He enjoyed his most productive offensive season in 2024–25 with his hometown Sudbury Wolves, registering 17 goals and 42 assists for 59 points in 65 games.
During the 2025–26 season, Pharand began the year with Sudbury, collecting 10 goals and 16 assists for 26 points in 37 games before being traded to the Windsor Spitfires in January. He added six goals and 10 assists for 16 points in 30 games with Windsor, helping the Spitfires capture the OHL West Division title and advance to the Western Conference Final.
Originally selected 14th overall by the Hamilton Bulldogs in the first round of the 2021 OHL Priority Selection, Pharand was later drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in the fourth round, 99th overall, of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft.
Pharand also brings international experience, having represented Canada at the 2023 IIHF Under-18 World Championship in Switzerland, where he helped Canada earn a bronze medal. He was also invited to the Toronto Maple Leafs’ development camp in 2025.
Away from the ice, Pharand was recognized for his community involvement, earning the Sudbury Wolves’ Community Service Award three consecutive seasons.
The 6-foot-3 forward brings size, offensive experience, and a strong junior hockey background to the Golden Knights. He will wear No. 21 during his freshman season at Clarkson.
Pharand’s younger sister, Kalia, is also a freshman at Clarkson, joining the Golden Knights’ women’s hockey program as a goaltender for the 2026–27 season.
