West Des Moines, Iowa — The Des Moines Buccaneers of the United States Hockey League (USHL) have signed a tender agreement with Christopher Pinko ahead of the 2026-27 season. 

The right-handed forward is a Brooklyn, N.Y., native, who has spent the last three seasons with the North Jersey Avalanche AAA program. He leads his club in scoring with 45P (15G, 30A) in 18GP at the Atlantic Youth Hockey League 15U level and 18P (6G, 12A) in 12GP at the Tier 1 Elite Hockey League so far in the 2025-26 season. He has also played two games at the 16U T1EHL level and four games with the Avalanche's 18U squad. Pinko's vision and skill will make him a key contributor in every situation on the ice.

"We're very excited to tender Chris Pinko," said Head Coach and President of Hockey Operations Derek Damon. "He's a dynamic player with a high hockey IQ and strong skating ability. We believe he has the potential to develop into a high-impact player for our organization for years to come"

The Buccaneers are excited for the opportunity to add Pinko to the list of talented, young, American-born forwards who have developed with the organization. Pinko follows in the growing pipeline of high-end talent advancing from the AAA level to the USHL. 

With this signing, the Buccaneers forfeit their Phase I Round 1 pick of the 2026 USHL Draft. Pinko must play a minimum of 55% of the Bucs' regular season games through the 2026-27 season.

About the Buccaneers   
Founded in 1980, the Des Moines Buccaneers are a proud member of the United States Hockey League (USHL), the nation's premier junior hockey league. The Bucs have a history of success in the USHL, including 4 Clark Cup Championships, 4 Anderson Cup Championships, and 54 alumni drafted to the National Hockey League, including Stanley Cup Champions Kyle Okposo, Alex Chiasson, Trevor Lewis, Davis Drewiske, and Erik Cole. The organization is committed to developing young players on and off the ice, preparing them for a future in collegiate and professional careers. Known for their passionate fan base, the Bucs play their home games at The MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex, a multi-sport complex in West Des Moines, Iowa.   
 
To learn more, visit www.bucshockey.com or follow the Bucs on social media: @bucshockey on X and Instagram, @desmoinesbuccaneers on TikTok, and Des Moines Buccaneers on Facebook. For more information about ticket packages, including season and group outings, please contact (515) 278-2827.