Komets Continue to Craft Roster
ECHL Fort Wayne Komets

Komets Continue to Craft Roster

Published on August 19, 2026 under ECHL (ECHL)
Last updated: August 19, 2026
Source: Fort Wayne Komets News Release


Fort Wayne, IN - The Komets have signed centers Mitch Hults and Patrick Guzzo, along with defenseman Jack Matier, for the upcoming season. The team also acquired defenseman Noah Carroll from Savannah for the rights to forward Reid Pabich. The roster now includes 12 forwards and eight defensemen. Hults joins Alex Aleardi, Simon Després, and Drake Rymsha as the team's four veterans.

Hults, 31, spent the past five seasons competing in Europe's top leagues. The 6'3 center began his professional career in the AHL with San Diego and Syracuse, recording 35 points (12 goals, 23 assists) in 82 games. He also played 73 ECHL games with Utah, Kansas City, and Orlando, totaling 61 points (18 goals, 43 assists).

"Mitch is comparable to AJ Jenks in his dominance in the faceoff circle," said head coach Ben Boudreau. "He brings championship experience and has competed at a high level in both the AHL and Europe. We expect him to excel in faceoffs and contribute significantly on offense."

Guzzo, 24, completed his rookie season with South Carolina last year, recording eight goals and 19 assists. Before turning professional, the 6'3 Marysville, Michigan native played 171 games at Ohio State University, setting a school record for games played, winning 1,266 faceoffs, and serving as team captain. He received the Big Ten Conference sportsmanship award in 2025.

"His size, hockey IQ, versatility, and leadership make him a valuable asset," said Boudreau. "He brings a strong work ethic, physical presence, responsible defensive play, and the ability to perform in critical situations. The organization can rely on him both on and off the ice."

Matier, 23, was selected in the fourth round of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft by Nashville and has spent much of his professional career in the AHL with Milwaukee. The 6'5 defenseman also played for the Atlanta Gladiators in the ECHL last season-a native of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, he represented Team Canada at the 2023 World Juniors Tournament.

"The Komets are getting a physically imposing, dependable defensive presence with good hockey sense, a team-first mentality, and the potential to develop into a shutdown defenseman," Boudreau said. "He's represented Canada at the highest levels of competition, winning a gold medal, which is an incredible accomplishment."

Carroll, 28, is a product of the University of New Brunswick and will be entering his sixth year as a pro. He played in 62 games with the Ghost Pirates last season and has appeared with Henderson in the AHL.

Visit komets.com for updates on ticket offers, promotional events, schedules, special game jerseys, theme nights, and other highlights for the 75th consecutive season of Fort Wayne Komet Hockey.

Season tickets for 2026-2027 are now available. For more information, visit komets.com or call 260-483-0011.

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