The Jacksonville Icemen announced this week that forward T.J. Friedmann has signed a contract to return to the club for the 2026‑27 ECHL season. The move comes after the 28‑year‑old posted a career‑high 24 points in 68 games during his most recent stint with the team's ECHL affiliate.
A Familiar Face Returns
Friedmann’s journey to Jacksonville began in January 2024, when he was traded to the Icemen and immediately contributed 14 points in just five appearances. His performance helped the club push for a playoff push, and the organization decided to retain his rights for the upcoming campaign.
Beyond the ECHL, Friedmann has experience at the American Hockey League level, having appeared in five games for the Utica Comets where he recorded two points. He also spent four seasons at Quinnipiac University, capping his collegiate career with a national championship in 2023 and finishing with 58 points in 156 games.
The Icemen, an ECHL affiliate of the Minnesota Wild and the Iowa Wild of the AHL, view Friedmann as a key piece in their developmental pipeline. General manager Mike Sillinger praised the forward’s work ethic and versatility, noting that his return adds depth to a roster that is looking to contend for the Kelly Cup.
Fans can expect to see the St. Louis native back on the ice at the Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena, where his offensive instincts and experience could prove decisive as the team aims to extend its recent surge.