The past ICEHL season once again showed how important dominant performances from the blue line can be to a team’s success. Several defenders impressed with strong offensive values and an enormous influence on their teams’ play. Particularly interesting: Some of these defenders currently have no confirmed future and could therefore become exciting names on the transfer market. Below we take a closer look at three defenders who attracted lasting attention in the 2025/26 season.
Anders Koch (D)
Different Koch has made a name for himself in his first season with the
Graz99ers quickly established himself as a reliable two-way defender. The Dane played 38 games in the regular season and collected a solid 19 points, plus a strong playoff output with 4 more points in just five games. Koch is not a spectacular offensive defender, but one who is valuable because of his stability. With his plus/minus balance in the positive range (+17), he also underlines his reliability throughout the entire season. After the championship title, the Dane will definitely leave the Styrians – he is therefore looking for a club.
Mark Barberio (D)
Mark Barberio came to the ICEHL with a great resume and immediately gained NHL and KHL experience
HC Bolzano. The Canadian played 16 games in the regular season and contributed 9 points – a solid value for an offensive defender who primarily shows his strengths in the power play. Barberio is a classic puck-moving defender: good first pass, good overview on the blue line and the ability to be creative in outnumbered situations. In Bolzano, however, the veteran was unlucky with injuries. His vulnerability combined with his price range probably won’t give him a future with the Foxes.
Yohann Auvitu (D)
Yohann Auvitu
is one of the most offensively active defenders in the squad
Black Wings Linz. In 21 games during the regular season, the French international scored 14 points – a strong figure for a two-way defender who takes on a lot of responsibility in building up the game. His international experience from the NHL, SHL and KHL also made him one of the most experienced defenders in the Linz squad last season. The Black Wings have also already confirmed their separation with the veteran – where he will end up is completely open.
Image: Dorner_pioneers.hockey
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