ECHL: Toledo Walleye and Idaho Steelheads Strike A Deal

Denis Smirnov

Smironov, 28, had spent three seasons with the Norfolk Admirals, where he put up 42 goals and 68 assists for 110 points in 140 games. He would add three goals and four assists for seven points in 22 career Kelly Cup Playoff games. Prior to joining Norfolk, Smirnov spent his rookie season with the Kalamazoo Wings, where he put up two goals and three assists for five points in 27 games. The Russian forward was acquired by the Steelheads at the future considerations trade deadline. In Smirnov, the Walleye get a forward who could easily find a way into their top-six heading into next season. 

Prior to going pro, the 5’9 forward played four years at Penn State. He would put up great numbers in his first two seasons with the Nittany Lions, putting up 34 goals and 40 assists for 74 points in his first 69 NCAA games. In his rookie season, he was named to the NCAA B1G All-Rookie Team as Penn State would take home the B1G Championship. Smirnov finished his collegiate career with 50 goals and 65 assists for 115 points in 137 games. 

Matt Anderson

Anderson, 26, saw just 27 games with the Walleye last season, putting up two goals and nine assists. He would add seven goals and three assists for 10 points in 20 Kelly Cup Playoff games. At the AHL level, he would put up one assist in five games with the Utica Comets and Toronto Marlies. Over the course of his four-year career, Anderson has put up 22 goals and 53 assists for 75 points in 157 games with the South Carolina Stingrays and Toledo Walleye. He’s added 10 goals and nine assists for 19 points in 39 Kelly Cup Playoff games. At the AHL level, he has four assists in eight games with the Comets and Marlies. 

Prior to going pro, the Shakopee, Minnesota, native has spent his collegiate career in his home state. In his five years at the University of Minnesota, he put up 22 goals and 53 assists for 75 points. Minnesota would capture two National Championships and two NCHC Championships during Anderson’s five years with the team.