A Bright Future Ahead
May 4, 2025 - United States Hockey League (USHL)
Des Moines Buccaneers News Release
The Des Moines Buccaneers wrapped up a season filled with standout performances, featuring a dynamic mix of rising rookies and seasoned veterans who made significant impacts on the ice.
Leading the charge for the Bucs were forwards Jack Kernan (University of North Dakota commit), Andrew Clarke (Dartmouth University commit), and Ben Kevan (Arizona State University commit). Kernan finished the season ranked 18th among all USHL skaters, tallying an impressive 53 points. Clarke followed closely behind, ranked 32nd with 45 points, while Kevan secured the 42nd spot with 43 points. Notably, Kevan was also named to the Team USA U18 roster and is recognized on the NHL Central Scouting rankings. Together, these three forwards played pivotal roles on the Buccaneers' power play unit and overall offensive success, each finishing the season among the league's top 60 forwards.
Additional contributions came from Ryan Seelinger (University of Miami Ohio commit), who posted 33 points and ranked 87th among USHL skaters, and rookie Blake Zielinski (Providence College commit). Zielinski, who joined the team in December, made an immediate impact, earning USHL All-Rookie Second Team honors and finishing ranked 93rd among forwards.
On the defensive end, the Buccaneers showed equal strength. Richard Baran (Arizona State University commit), another NHL Central Scouting-ranked player, finished 16th among USHL defensemen. Midseason acquisition Brandt Harper (University of Michigan commit) quickly integrated into the lineup, contributing 16 points and finishing 51st among defensemen. Mason Peapenburg (University of Wisconsin commit) and Connor Bewick (Penn State University commit) also delivered solid seasons, each recording 10 points while finishing ranked 80th and 84th respectively. Bewick, a veteran on the roster, emerged as a strong leader for the younger defenders, bringing both physicality and stability to the lineup.
Keaton Orrey (University of Miami Ohio commit) demonstrated impressive development throughout the season, ranking 98th among defensemen. Known for his booming shot and physical presence, Orrey tallied timely goals and provided reliable blue line play.
In net, Max Weilandt, currently uncommitted, was a consistent force, ranking 17th among USHL goaltenders with a 3.17 goals-against average. Weilandt especially stood out during the final stretch of the season with key performances. Eliot Seguin Lescarbeau (University of New Hampshire commit) also played a critical role between the pipes, finishing the season with a 3.72 goals-against average while making several highlight-reel saves to keep the Bucs competitive in key moments.
The Buccaneers closed the season strong, winning their final three games against tough opponents and showcasing the growth and resilience of their roster. Many players took major steps forward in their development, reinforcing the bright future ahead for the organization.
Looking toward next season, the Buccaneers have signed forward Ryland Rooney to a tender agreement for the 2025-26 campaign. Rooney, just 16 years old, put up a remarkable 33 goals and 36 assists for 69 points this season - an outstanding achievement that positions him as a key addition to the Buccaneers' future lineup.
With a strong core returning and exciting young talent on the way, the future is bright for the Buccaneers. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned as the Bucs prepare for the 2024 USHL Phase I and Phase II Drafts, taking place on Monday, May 5, and Tuesday, May 6, respectively. Follow the Buccaneers' social media channels for live updates and coverage throughout draft week!
United States Hockey League Stories from May 4, 2025
- A Bright Future Ahead - Des Moines Buccaneers
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