Tanner Kelly, a 24‑year‑old forward, has signed a contract with the Jacksonville Icemen for the 2026‑27 season, bringing a proven offensive spark to the ECHL franchise.
During his rookie professional season he posted 50 points — 25 goals and 25 assists — across 66 games, finishing sixth in rookie scoring and helping the Icemen stay competitive in the league.
The move follows a February 23, 2024 trade that saw Kelly exchanged from the Toledo Walleye, where he contributed three goals in eight postseason games, to his new club.
Kelly’s collegiate résumé includes four seasons at Michigan State University, where he tallied 58 points (24 goals, 34 assists) and was part of two conference championship teams, underscoring his ability to perform under pressure.
Prior to Michigan State, he honed his skills with the Muskegon Lumberjacks of the United States Hockey League, recording 63 points (24 goals, 39 assists) from 2019 to 2021, a period that helped shape his development.
Affiliate Connections
The Icemen operate as the ECHL affiliate of both the Minnesota Wild and the Iowa Wild, linking Kelly’s path to a broader NHL ecosystem that includes the Wild’s AHL team in Iowa.
Looking Forward
Coaching staff and management see Kelly’s blend of size, work ethic and championship experience as a catalyst for a deeper playoff run, and the forward is expected to contribute immediately on the power play and in even‑strength situations.