Zac Electrifly

In this post, I’m taking a look at the Tahoe Knight Monsters 2025-26 roster and where last season’s players have ended up. A number of familiar faces have moved on to new opportunities across the hockey world. Patrick Newell and Logan Nelson have both joined the Greensboro Gargoyles of the ECHL, while Simon Pinard signed with the Hershey Bears of the AHL and is now playing with their ECHL affiliate, the South Carolina Stingrays. Jake Johnson and Adam Robbins are both skating with the Cincinnati Cyclones, joined by Elijah Vilio, who also landed there this season. Jett Jones is now playing for the Florida Everblades, and Matt Murphy joined the Fort Wayne Komets. Christopher Dodero is with the Idaho Steelheads, Blake Christensen is with the Kalamazoo Wings, and Ryan Orgel is playing for the Maine Mariners.

A few players have taken different paths, Jake Stevens and Jordan Henderson are both in the SPHL, with Stevens playing for the Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs and Henderson with the Quad City Storm. Adrien Bison is playing overseas in France, while Daniil Chayka has returned to Russia. Meanwhile, Jesper Vikman and Joe Fleming are both playing in the AHL with the Henderson Silver Knights, and Jakub Demek remains with the Vegas Golden Knights organization, though he has yet to appear in a game this season.

Some former Knight Monsters have yet to sign this year, including Bear Hughes, Troy Logins, Cal Kiefiuk, Brandon Tabakin, Slava Demin, Cade Alami, Evan Junker, Dominic Vidoli, Aiden Girduckis, C.J. Hayes, Brett Bliss, and Dylan Myskiw. It’s always interesting to see where players end up as careers evolve, and the 2025-26 season has certainly brought plenty of changes for this group of former Tahoe Knight Monsters.

Brennan Kapcheck is returning to the Tahoe Knight Monsters for the 2025-26 season after a strong showing during the team’s inaugural year. Kapcheck was a key part of the blue line, playing in all 64 regular season games and contributing four goals and 29 assists for a total of 33 points. Known for his steady defensive play and ability to move the puck, he also brought some grit to the lineup, racking up 63 penalty minutes over the course of the season. Kapcheck’s durability and consistency carried into the postseason, where he appeared in all eight playoff games, further solidifying his role as one of the team’s most reliable defensemen.

Defenseman Artur Cholach is set to return to the Tahoe Knight Monsters for the 2025–26 season after being assigned by the Henderson Silver Knights. Last year, Cholach split his time between the AHL and ECHL, appearing in a handful of games with Henderson but spending most of the season in Tahoe. With the Knight Monsters, he became a key presence on both sides of the puck, playing 54 games and tallying seven goals and 16 assists for a total of 23 points. Known for his disciplined play, he kept his penalty minutes to just 16 for the season while maintaining a strong defensive presence. Cholach also suited up for all 8 playoff games, showcasing his reliability in high-pressure moments. His return brings valuable experience and stability to Tahoe’s blue line as he looks to build on last season’s impressive performance and continue his development as a dependable two-way defenseman.

Goaltender Jordan Papirny is returning to the Tahoe Knight Monsters for the 2025-26 season after being re-signed by the Henderson Silver Knights and reassigned to Tahoe. Papirny split time between the ECHL and AHL last year, gaining valuable experience at both levels. In 28 games with the Knight Monsters, he posted an impressive 2.50 goals-against average and a .920 save percentage, proving to be a steady and reliable presence in net. His strong play was a key part of Tahoe’s success during their inaugural season, and his return gives the team a proven goaltender to build around heading into year two.

Kaelan Taylor is back with the Tahoe Knight Monsters for their second season, bringing consistency, toughness, and leadership to the lineup. A key part of the team’s inaugural roster, Taylor appeared in 64 regular season games last year, proving to be one of Tahoe’s most reliable players. He contributed offensively with four goals and 29 assists for a total of 33 points, while also adding a physical edge with 63 penalty minutes. Taylor’s presence was equally important in the postseason, where he suited up for all 8 playoff games. His blend of durability, skill, and grit makes him a cornerstone for the Knight Monsters as they look to build on the foundation they set last season.

Defenseman Samuel Mayer is making his return to the Tahoe Knight Monsters for the upcoming 2025–26 season after missing the majority of last year due to a significant injury. Assigned once again by the Henderson Silver Knights, Mayer is looking to make a strong comeback and reestablish himself as a physical force on the blue line. His 2024-25 season was cut short after just three games, during which he didn’t register any points but did collect 21 penalty minutes, showing he’s not afraid to play with an edge. Now eager to get back into the lineup, Mayer’s return brings toughness and determination to Tahoe’s defensive group as he aims to bounce back and make a bigger impact this season.

Defender Linden Alger is set to return to the Tahoe Knight Monsters for the upcoming season, bringing experience and poise to the blue line. Last year, Alger spent most of his time in the NCAA but made a brief appearance in Tahoe, playing just 2 regular-season games. While he didn’t record any points or penalties during that short stint, he made his presence felt when it mattered most, appearing in 4 playoff games for the Knight Monsters. With a strong defensive mindset and the ability to step up in key moments, Alger’s return adds depth and reliability to Tahoe’s defense as he looks to take on a larger role this season.

Forward Adam Pitters rounds out the list of returning players for the Tahoe Knight Monsters heading into the 2025-26 season. Last year, Pitters was a steady presence in the lineup, appearing in 43 games and contributing 3 goals and 10 assists for a total of 13 points. Known for his work ethic and reliable two-way play, he also kept things disciplined with just 13 penalty minutes. Pitters appeared in 2 playoff games for Tahoe, adding valuable depth and experience to the roster. As he returns for another season, the Knight Monsters will look to him for consistency and veteran leadership both on and off the ice.

Goaltender Cameron Whitehead is set to join the Tahoe Knight Monsters for the upcoming season, bringing fresh energy and promise to the crease. The young netminder is currently on an entry-level contract with the Vegas Golden Knights, who selected him in the 2022 NHL Draft. Last season, Whitehead spent most of his time in the NCAA, where he continued to develop his game and gain valuable experience at the collegiate level. He also saw limited action in the AHL, giving him a taste of the professional pace. Now, as he transitions to Tahoe, Whitehead will look to showcase his talent and take the next big step in his development within the Golden Knights organization.

Defender Adam Samuelsson is set to join the Tahoe Knight Monsters as he enters his third professional season. The well-traveled blueliner brings a strong mix of experience and pedigree, having played junior hockey in both the USHL and OHL and spent time in the NCAA with Boston College. Last season, Samuelsson suited up for the Maine Mariners and Jacksonville Icemen in the ECHL, where he continued to develop his steady, defensive-minded game. Known for his size and physical presence, Samuelsson will look to bring toughness and stability to Tahoe’s blue line as he takes the next step in his pro career.

Defender Oliver LeBlanc is bringing a wealth of experience to the Tahoe Knight Monsters as he enters his sixth professional season. LeBlanc’s hockey journey has taken him across several leagues and countries, starting in the QMJHL during his junior days before continuing his development at the University of New Brunswick. Since turning pro, he’s played in the AHL and ECHL, as well as overseas in France and the EIHL. A proven winner, LeBlanc was part of the Florida Everblades 2022-23 ECHL championship team before spending the last two seasons competing in Europe. Now returning to North American hockey, he’s expected to provide veteran leadership and a steady presence on Tahoe’s blue line.

Forward Connor Marritt is set to begin his professional career with the Tahoe Knight Monsters, marking his rookie season in the pro ranks. Marritt’s path to Tahoe includes an impressive collegiate career and strong junior experience. He played junior hockey in the BCHL before moving on to the NCAA, where he suited up for both Northern Michigan University and the University of Alaska-Anchorage. Last season, he wrapped up his college career with Alaska-Anchorage, showcasing his skill, leadership, and consistency. Now ready to make the jump to the professional level, Marritt will look to bring his high-energy game and offensive instincts to the Knight Monsters lineup.

Forward Mike O’Leary brings veteran experience to the Tahoe Knight Monsters as he embarks on his seventh professional hockey season. A product of the USHL and a standout at the University of Notre Dame, O’Leary has built an impressive résumé that spans multiple leagues and countries. His professional career includes time in the AHL, ECHL, and Finland’s top league, the SM-liiga. Last season, he split time between the Florida Everblades in the ECHL and the Milwaukee Admirals in the AHL, showcasing his versatility and dependable two-way play. To start the current season, O’Leary suited up with Ilves Tampere in the SM-liiga before joining Tahoe. With his mix of skill, experience, and leadership, he’s expected to be a key contributor both on and off the ice for the Knight Monsters.

Forward Jake Duflinger is set to join the Tahoe Knight Monsters for his fourth professional season, bringing both experience and a hometown connection to the team. Duflinger played his junior hockey in the NAHL and USHL before moving on to the NCAA, where he suited up for the University of Denver and Merrimack College. Since turning pro, he has competed in both the ECHL and the EIHL, spending last season with the Manchester Storm in the United Kingdom. A native of Walnut Creek, California, Duflinger holds the distinction of being the player who grew up closest to Lake Tahoe, a special connection that adds a personal touch to his arrival. With his well-rounded game and local roots, he’s sure to become a fan favorite as he begins this new chapter with the Knight Monsters.

Forward Kevin Wall is set to join the Tahoe Knight Monsters as he enters his third professional season. Wall brings a strong blend of skill and experience, having developed through some of North America’s top hockey programs. He played junior hockey in both the OJHL and BCHL before moving on to the NCAA, where he made a name for himself at Pennsylvania State University as a dynamic offensive threat. Drafted by the Carolina Hurricanes in 2019, Wall has spent the past two seasons in the AHL with the Milwaukee Admirals, gaining valuable professional experience. Now joining Tahoe, he’ll look to bring his scoring touch, speed, and playmaking ability to the Knight Monsters forward group.

Forward Cody Laskowsky is set to kick off his professional career with the Tahoe Knight Monsters, joining the team for his rookie season. Laskowsky brings a strong background in competitive hockey, having developed his game in the AJHL before moving on to the NCAA, where he played for both R.I.T. and the University of Wisconsin. Known for his work ethic, versatility, and offensive instincts, Laskowsky will look to make an immediate impact as he transitions to the pro level. His combination of skill and determination makes him an exciting addition to the Knight Monsters’ lineup this season.

Forward Devon Paliani joins the Tahoe Knight Monsters for his fifth professional season, bringing experience and energy to the lineup. Assigned to Tahoe by the Henderson Silver Knights, Paliani has built a solid career in the ECHL, where he’s earned a reputation as a hardworking, reliable forward. His hockey journey began in the GOJHL and OHL before he continued his development at Ryerson University. Since turning pro, he’s spent his entire career in the ECHL, most recently playing for the Savannah Ghost Pirates last season. With his strong two-way play and veteran presence, Paliani is poised to be a key contributor for the Knight Monsters this year.

Forward Trent Swick joins the Tahoe Knight Monsters for his rookie professional season, bringing youthful energy and potential to the lineup. Assigned to Tahoe by the Henderson Silver Knights, Swick begins his pro journey under an entry-level contract with the Vegas Golden Knights, who drafted him in 2024. The talented forward comes from a strong junior background, having played in the OHL with the Kitchener Rangers, where he showcased his offensive instincts and playmaking ability. Now stepping into the pro ranks, Swick will look to make an immediate impact and continue his development within the Golden Knights organization as he adapts to the next level of competition.

Forward Casey Bailey brings a wealth of experience to the Tahoe Knight Monsters as he enters his twelfth professional hockey season. A seasoned veteran with an impressive résumé, Bailey played his junior hockey in the BCHL and USHL before starring at Pennsylvania State University, where he helped elevate the program to national prominence. His professional career has taken him across the hockey world, including stints in the NHL with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Ottawa Senators, as well as time in the AHL, KHL, ECHL, Sweden, Germany’s DEL, and Austria. Last season, Bailey played for Graz EC in the Austrian league, continuing to showcase his scoring ability and leadership. Now joining the Knight Monsters, he brings a world of experience, offensive skill, and veteran presence to a young and talented roster.