ECHL: Max Messier Signs PTO With Everblades

Max Messier’s professional hockey career is taking another step forward, this time in Southwest Florida.

The Florida Everblades have signed the 26-year-old forward to a professional tryout agreement as they prepare for the 2026-27 ECHL season. Messier arrives in Estero after spending his first professional season with the Macon Mayhem of the Southern Professional Hockey League.

Messier made the jump to professional hockey with the Macon Mayhem in 2025-26, appearing in 44 games and finishing the season with two goals and two assists. It was his first season playing professionally after four years in NCAA Division III, giving the Wilcox, Saskatchewan, native his first opportunity to adjust to the demands of the pro game.

The Road to Macon

His road to Macon included stops at two different colleges. Messier began his collegiate career at Finlandia University before transferring to the University of Dubuque. During his time with the Spartans, he put together his strongest offensive season in 2023-24, recording four goals and five assists over 22 games. He finished his two seasons at Dubuque with five goals and five assists in 35 appearances and was also recognized as an NCHA All-Academic selection both years.

Over four seasons in college, Messier played 80 games and finished with 15 goals and 17 assists. His college career ended in the spring of 2025, and a few months later, Macon signed him in August. That put him on the ice for his first professional season and started his transition from college hockey to the SPHL.

An Opportunity With The Everblades

A year later, another opportunity has opened up. Florida has brought Messier in on a professional tryout agreement, giving him a chance to compete for a spot on the Everblades’ roster in the ECHL. The 6-foot-2, 192-pound left shot is listed as No. 23 on Florida’s preseason roster.

Messier’s family also has an interesting connection to hockey history. Hockey Hall of Famer Mark Messier is his second cousin, according to the Everblades.

Now, Messier gets his first opportunity to prove himself in the ECHL. After spending his rookie season in Macon, he arrives in Florida looking to earn a spot and make the most of his chance with the Everblades.