ECHL: Maine Mariners sign Cooper Jones

Today, the Maine Mariners announced the signing of defenseman Cooper Jones.

Before the ECHL

Jones’ junior career included three seasons with the Halifax Mooseheads. He appeared in 172 games and recorded nine goals and 21 assists for a total of 30 points. Following his junior years, Jones went to the SPHL. There, he played for several clubs, including the Knoxville Ice Bears, Evansville Thunderbolts, Macon Mayhem, and Pensacola Ice Flyers. Across approximately 78 SPHL games, he totaled around six goals and 25 assists.

ECHL Journey

Cooper Jones joined the ECHL in the 2018–19 season with the Adirondack Thunder. In the ECHL, Jones has become something of a journeyman, playing for several teams.

Over five partial ECHL seasons, he has posted a combined stat line of roughly five goals and 13 assists. Last year he split time between the Jacksonville Icemen and the Utah Grizzlies. In Jacksonville he scored a goal in 18 games before being traded to Utah. With the Grizzlies, he found more offensive rhythm, producing four goals and eight assists (12 points) in 39 games.

Time Overseas

In 2022 Jones made a stint overseas during the and played in France’s Neuilly-sur-Marne. There, he contributed two goals and 16 assists in 26 games, adding an international chapter to his diverse hockey resume.

What Can He Do For the Mariners?

Jones is bringing mobility, puck-moving skills, and versatility to a defensive unit that includes young returning players like Tristan Thompson and James Marooney. While he’s not known for high offensive output, his ability to move the puck and play a reliable depth role could be valuable for the team.

At 5’8″, Cooper Jones may face size mismatches in physical battles, but his experience across multiple leagues makes him highly adaptable. That versatility, combined with his steady play, could also serve as a stabilizing influence for younger defensemen in a blue line group still shaping its identity.

To thrive in Maine, Jones will need to adjust quickly to the system. If he does, he has the potential to become a reliable presence and help solidify the team’s defensive depth.