Not every transfer is a risk. Some newcomers immediately made an impact in the ICE Hockey League and developed into pillars of their teams. Whether as a scorer, playmaker or leader – these players not only met the high expectations, but in some cases significantly exceeded them. An overview of the best newcomers from external leagues so far in the 2025/26 season. In the first part we took a closer look at four cracks!
Henry Bowlby (HC Pustertal)
Henry Bowlby became a big surprise at HC Pustertal. When the 28-year-old American was signed, hardly anyone expected such an offensive output. 39 points in 42 games, including 18 goals, speak for themselves. After only eight goals in the previous two years, Bowlby seems to feel right at home in the Wolf Pack.
Cole Bardreau (HC Pustertal)
Cole Bardreau also played a large part in Bowlby’s success. The 32-year-old American came to Pustertal with experience from over 500 AHL games and immediately took on responsibility. Especially at the start of the season, he formed a congenial duo with Bowlby. With 36 points in 39 games, Bardreau is one of the pillars of the “Puschtra”.
Max Gildon (HC Bozen)
The signing of Max Gildon also caused a stir before the season. HC Bozen secured the offensively strong and physically robust defender from Košice. Gildon brings years of experience from the AHL, DEL and the Slovakian league and also confirms this in the ICEHL. 34 points in 43 games is a strong result for a defender.
Connor Corcoran (EC Red Bull Salzburg)
Connor Corcoran is one of the best defenders of the current season. The 1.88 meter tall, beefy defender proved to be an absolute stroke of luck for champions Salzburg. With 27 points, including ten goals, he impressively underlines his offensive qualities. Corcoran combines physicality with game intelligence at the highest level.
Michael Raffl (EC Red Bull Salzburg)
Michael Raffl’s fixed return to the ICEHL has so far been a huge hit. The long-time NHL player came to Salzburg to play again with his brother Thomas Raffl. With 43 points in 41 games, the 37-year-old is the Bulls’ top scorer. If Raffl stays fit, he should become a crucial weapon, especially in the playoffs.
Image: EC Red Bull Salzburg
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