ECHL: Savannah Ghost Pirates Sign Peter Laviolette III

Originally posted on Inside The Rink | By Karen Zehner | Last updated Feb 18, 2026 2:06 PM ET

The Savannah Ghost Pirates added to their forward group after claiming Peter Laviolette III off waivers following his release from the Orlando Solar Bears on February 16.

The 28-year-old forward stands 6-foot-4, weighs 220 pounds, and shoots left. Originally from Longboat Key, Florida, Laviolette brings size, maturity, and more than 125 games of ECHL experience to Savannah’s lineup.

Pro Experience in the ECHL

Laviolette opened 2025–26 in Orlando, appearing in 17 games and recording one goal and one assist before Savannah added him to the roster. Prior to that, he spent three seasons with the Wheeling Nailers, where he carved out a role defined by physical engagement and net-front presence.

Across three seasons in Wheeling, he totaled 28 points in 110 regular-season games while consistently logging heavy penalty minutes. His 2022–23 campaign included 96 penalty minutes in 38 games, followed by 102 in 45 games during 2023–24 and 94 in 27 games in 2024–25.

In his final appearance with Orlando, he received a one-game suspension after being assessed a major penalty and game misconduct for checking from behind on Kansas City’s Marcus Crawford. He will serve that suspension upon joining Savannah.

Throughout his professional career, Laviolette has established himself as a forward who competes on the edge. Physical engagement is part of his identity, and his game consistently reflects that willingness to battle in hard areas.

Collegiate Career

Before turning pro, Laviolette played five seasons at Plymouth State University (NCAA Division III), where he majored in Sports Management as an undergraduate and completed his graduate degree in Business Administration. He was listed as a graduate student during the 2021–22 season, which marked the most productive year of his college career.

Over 107 collegiate games, Laviolette recorded 66 points (35G, 31A) and 148 penalty minutes. His offensive numbers steadily climbed throughout his time at Plymouth State. He posted nine points as a freshman, followed by 11 and 14 points in his sophomore and junior seasons, respectively. During the shortened 2020–21 season — when he also served as team captain — he recorded six points in eight games.

His breakout came in 2021–22. In 27 games, he tallied 26 points (11G, 15A) while firing 123 shots on goal. That season included five power-play goals, one shorthanded goal, and three game-winning goals — a clear indication of his ability to contribute in key situations.

What Savannah Gets

Laviolette plays a heavy, straight-line game. He establishes net-front position, protects pucks along the boards, and brings physical pushback every shift. His collegiate résumé shows offensive capability, especially on the power play, while his ECHL track record highlights toughness and durability.

This article first appeared on Inside The Rink and was syndicated with permission.

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