A Veteran’s Return
The Adirondack Thunder announced this week that Daniel Amesbury has agreed to a new contract that will keep him in the lineup for the 2026‑27 season. The deal marks the second stint for the 35‑year‑old forward, who originally joined the club after being acquired from the Utah Grizzlies.
Amesbury brings a blend of toughness and experience that the Thunder’s coaching staff hopes will translate into more disciplined play and a stronger presence in the penalty box. His reputation for delivering hard‑hitting, physical hockey aligns with the team’s traditional identity.
Recent Season Highlights
During the 2025‑26 campaign he appeared in 23 games for Adirondack, accumulating 149 penalty minutes while contributing modestly on the scoresheet. The stint was preceded by a 33‑game run with the Kansas City Mavericks, where he recorded a single assist and added 171 penalty minutes, underscoring his role as a defensive specialist.
Across his North American professional career, which spans stints in the ECHL, CHL, SPHL and the Federal Prospects Hockey League, Amesbury has suited up for 252 games. In those appearances he has tallied 32 points — 15 goals and 17 assists — and amassed a staggering 1,520 penalty minutes, a statistic that reflects his physical brand of play.
From Maple Ridge to the Mountain State
Born in Maple Ridge, British Columbia, Amesbury’s hockey journey has taken him from the forests of western Canada to the mid‑western heartland and now back to upstate New York. His roots in a community known for producing gritty, hardworking athletes have been cited by teammates and coaches as a foundational element of his work ethic.
Looking Ahead
The Thunder’s management believes that re‑signing Amesbury provides a stabilizing factor for a roster that is navigating a transitional period. With the club’s affiliation to the New Jersey Devils and the AHL’s Utica Comets, the organization aims to blend developmental talent with veteran savvy, and Amesbury’s presence is expected to help mentor younger players while contributing his trademark physicality on the ice.