A New Season Brings a New Group of Players Ready to Make Their Mark in the Eastern Hockey League Premier
HAVERHILL, MA – As the EHLP prepares for the 2026-27 season, several returning players stand out as names to watch heading into the new year. From established offensive producers to standout defenseman and goaltenders, the league will feature plenty of players looking to build on strong 2025-26 campaigns and take the next step in their development.
What to Watch For
With the new season approaching, several players already stand out as names to watch across the EHLP.
New Hampshire Avalanche forward Lincoln Manson after making an impact throughout last season. Manson was a key contributor during New Hampshire’s run to the EHLP Championship, scoring twice and adding an assist in the Avalanche’s game two win over the Providence Capitals. He will look to carry that momentum into the 2026-27 season as New Hampshire looks to defend their throne.
Connecticut Nor’Easter forward Evan Huyck is another returning player to keep an eye on. Huyck found the back of the net in several important matchups last season, including a goal in Connecticut’s 7-0 win over the Philadelphia Little Flyers and another in a 5-3 win over the Atlantic City Seals. With the Nor’Easter continuing to develop their roster under new Head Coach Mike Cichy, Hucyk will be looking to take another step forward this season.
Union Jr. Defenseman Tai Jausovec also enters the season as a player to watch. Jausovec showed his offensive ability from the blue line last season, scoring during Union’s win over the Pennsylvania Huntsmen and later earning EHLP Defenseman of the Month honors for March. He also recorded a goal and two assists during Union’s playoff series against the Pennsylvania Huntsmen, giving the Thunder another important piece after their best season yet.
Atlantic City will have two returning players to watch in Ricky Sandman and Marshall Windsor. Sandman was selected to the 2026 EHLP All-Star Game and made an impact throughout the season, including a goal and an assist in a January win over the New Jersey Bears. Windsor, meanwhile, was one of the Seals’ most productive defenseman, recording four goals and nine assists during January alone to earn EHLP Defensive of the Month honors. Both players will look to continue playing major roles for the defending Mid-Atlantic Regular Season Champs.
New Jersey Bears defenseman Zachary Cheung is another player who enters the season with plenty of momentum. The 2008-born defenseman earned EHLP Defensive of the Month honors in December after recording three goals and two assists, including three power-play goals. After a third-place finish last year, Cheung will look to build on that breakout stretch as the Bears look to earn their first playoff win.
In net, Seahawks Hockey Club goaltender Logan Boyd will be one of the top players to watch. Boyd put together several strong performances last season, including a 35-save effort in the Seahawks’ final regular-season game against Express Hockey Club. After coming up short in back-to-back Regional Finals, the young net-minder will look to help the Seahawks over the hump in his second year.
Looking Ahead
With several players coming off strong seasons, the 2026-27 EHLP season will provide another opportunity for young players to establish themselves and continue their development.
The Hershey Cubs will also join the EHLP this season after a strong 2025-26 campaign that saw the team come close to qualifying for the USPHL Nationals.
Valley will also return to the EHLP this season after a one-year hiatus. The team last competed in the league during the 2024-25 season, finishing with 25 wins and establishing itself as a competitive program before returning to the 2026-27 campaign.
The EHLP will also feature its All-Star game at the Mid-Season Snowdown in Simsbury, Connecticut, where the league’s top players will have the opportunity to showcase their talent in front of EHL coaches and fans. The event will take place on opening night of the showcase in December.
With returning stars, emerging young talent, and another season of development ahead, the 2026-27 EHLP season is set to bring another group of players into the spotlight. The road to Providence starts now.