Garrett Van Wyhe, a forward who spent the previous season with the Jacksonville Icemen, has officially signed a contract with the Toledo Walleye for the 2026‑27 campaign. The move comes after the Walleye acquired him in a seven‑player trade during the 2025‑26 season, a deal that also brought several other experienced players to the organization.
A Late‑Season Spark
Since joining Toledo in February, Van Wyhe posted 15 points in 21 games, including nine goals and six assists. His offensive burst helped the Walleye secure a playoff berth and gave the team a much‑needed boost as the regular season wound down.
Career Overview
Van Wyhe’s professional journey began with a debut in the 2021‑22 season with the Utica Comets. He then spent four seasons at the University of Michigan, where he recorded 37 points in 135 games. Over his ECHL career he has suited up for Toledo, Jacksonville, Fort Wayne and Adirondack, accumulating 120 points — 62 goals and 58 assists — across 236 games.
In addition to his regular‑season work, Van Wyhe added five points in 12 playoff appearances, underscoring his ability to perform under pressure. His blend of size, work ethic and offensive versatility makes him a valuable asset as the Walleye look to build on last season’s momentum.
What This Means for the Walleye
The front office sees Van Wyhe as a key piece in the team’s forward depth chart, providing a reliable option on the second and third lines. His experience in high‑stakes games should also help mentor younger players coming up from the organization’s developmental programs.
Head coach Mike Vellucci praised the signing, noting that Van Wyhe’s “hockey‑intelligent skill set and proven playoff contributions” align perfectly with the club’s long‑term vision. With the contract in place, the Walleye aim to maintain competitiveness in the ECHL’s toughest divisions while continuing to develop home‑grown talent.