Blue Line Reinforcements
The Idaho Steelheads have added a seasoned defensive presence to their roster, announcing the signing of Brady Keeper to an ECHL contract for the 2026‑27 campaign. The move comes as the franchise gears up for its 29th season, a milestone that has the organization eager to blend youthful energy with veteran savvy.
Keeper, who will turn 30 during the upcoming season, arrives after a stint with the Rapid City Rush where he recorded five points in seven games and contributed 31 points in 129 AHL appearances across Springfield, Syracuse, Abbotsford and Laval. His professional résumé also includes three NHL games with the Florida Panthers, highlighted by a playoff appearance in 2020.
The defenseman’s development began in college at the University of Maine, where he led the team in plus‑minus rating (+17) and shots (101) during his first two seasons. Prior to that, he spent four years in the MJHL with the OCN Blizzard, amassing 133 points in 160 games and adding 21 points during playoff runs, a trajectory that caught the attention of the Steelheads’ management.
The acquisition of Keeper’s ECHL rights from the Rapid City Rush was completed in June in a trade that sent forward Jaden Shields to Rapid City. The deal underscores the Steelheads’ intent to reinforce their blue line ahead of the season opener.
The 29th season of the franchise will open on October 16 with a road game against New Mexico, before the home debut against the Allen Americans on October 23. Fans will be watching closely as Keeper makes his first appearance in a Steelheads jersey, hoping the veteran’s experience will translate into a stronger defensive showing for the club.