ECHL: Stingrays Add Defenseman Brady Keeper

The South Carolina Stingrays have added veteran defenseman Brady Keeper for the 2025–26 season, bringing NHL and AHL experience to Charleston. At 29 years old, Keeper represents both leadership and toughness, two traits the Stingrays are counting on as they continue to build out their roster.

Head Coach Dave Warsofsky emphasized the value of the addition:

“Brady brings a tremendous amount of experience to our team, having played at both the NHL and AHL levels throughout his career. I’ve had some great conversations with him about the role he’ll play for us, and it’s clear he’s committed to helping us win here in Charleston. After taking some time away from the game, Brady is eager to get back on the ice and make an impact. He’s a valuable addition, and we believe he’ll play an important role in our success this season” (South Carolina Stingrays, 2025).

NHL and AHL Experience

Keeper made history when he signed with the Florida Panthers in March 2019, becoming the first member of the Pimicikamak Cree Nation to play in the NHL. He debuted that same month in a 5–2 win over Ottawa, marking a milestone moment in Canadian hockey (South Carolina Stingrays, 2025).

He went on to appear in three NHL games across two seasons before spending the bulk of his pro career in the AHL with Springfield, Syracuse, Abbotsford, and most recently, Laval. His most productive year came in Springfield in 2019–20, when he registered 18 points (6g–12a) in 61 games and piled up 108 penalty minutes, the seventh-most in the league that season. He later chipped in three points (2g–1a) in 11 games for Syracuse in 2020–21 and added six points (1g–5a) in 35 games for Abbotsford in 2022–23, plus a goal in two playoff appearances. Most recently with Laval, he contributed a goal and three assists in 22 games during the 2023–24 campaign. In total, Keeper has played 131 AHL games, building a reputation as a rugged defender who can also contribute offensively.

NCAA and Junior Success

Before turning pro, Keeper was a standout at the University of Maine, where he tallied 22 points in each of his two NCAA seasons and earned a spot on the 2018–19 Hockey East Third All-Star Team. His physical style of play and offensive instincts drew the attention of NHL scouts, ultimately landing him his first contract with Florida.

His path began in the MJHL with the OCN Blizzard, where he quickly rose to prominence. Keeper was named to the MJHL All-Rookie Team in 2014–15 and went on to dominate the league as a defenseman. In 2015–16, he earned MJHL First All-Star honors, led all defensemen in both goals (16) and points (44), and continued that dominance into 2016–17. That season, as captain of OCN, he was named the MJHL Most Valuable Player, Top Defenseman, and a First All-Star Team selection, while scoring 23 goals and 48 points in just 48 games.

What This Means for the Stingrays

With Keeper joining the fold, the Stingrays gain a proven veteran who can anchor the blue line while also providing leadership to a roster filled with young talent. His NHL milestone, AHL pedigree, and history of success at every level add credibility and depth to South Carolina’s push for another competitive season in the South Division.

On joining the Stingrays, Keeper shared his excitement about the opportunity:

“I’m really excited to get the opportunity to be a Stingray,” Keeper said. “I’ve heard a lot of good things about the Stingrays organization from my buddy [Justin] Nachbaur so I’m really excited to get down there, meet everyone and get the season going” (South Carolina Stingrays, 2025).

Five Things Stingrays Fans Should Know About Brady Keeper

1. Historic NHL Milestone – Keeper became the first member of the Pimicikamak Cree Nation to play in the NHL when he debuted with Florida in 2019.
2. Battle-Tested in the AHL – He’s logged 131 career AHL games, including a career-best 18 points and 108 penalty minutes with Springfield in 2019–20.
3. Decorated in the MJHL – Keeper was a three-time MJHL First All-Star, a league MVP, and a Top Defenseman Award winner while captaining the OCN Blizzard.
4. Standout at Maine – In just two NCAA seasons with the Black Bears, he posted 44 points and earned a spot on the 2018–19 Hockey East Third All-Star Team.
5. Tough, Reliable Leader – At 6’2” and nearly 200 pounds, Keeper blends physical play with leadership experience, giving South Carolina a steadying force on the blue line.

SOURCE:

South Carolina Stingrays. (2025, September 10). Stingrays add former NHL defenseman Brady Keeper for 2025–26 season [Press release].