Steelheads' best player has re-signed a contract!

After leading the Idaho Steelheads in goals last season, forward Brendan Hoffmann is officially back, and that's great news for the Dallas Stars' development system.

The 23-year-old right-handed forward signed an ECHL contract for 2025-26, returning to the team where he scored 25 goals and racked up 50 points in 68 games.

He also led the Steelheads in shots on goal with 222, which ranked seventh in the entire ECHL.

"Brendan was a key contributor for us all year long," said head coach Everett Sheen in the team's announcement. "He brings size, energy, and finish."

According to the official release from the Idaho Steelheads, Hoffmann enters his second season in Boise after being acquired from Atlanta in June 2024 in a future considerations deal.

Why Brendan Hoffmann's return matters for Idaho and the Dallas Stars prospect pipeline

Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 223 pounds, Hoffmann has quietly become one of the most reliable scorers in the ECHL.

Over three seasons with Reading, Atlanta, and Idaho, he's totaled 106 points in 193 career games, along with three goals in 11 playoff appearances.

Before turning pro, he played four years with the OHL's Erie Otters, where he developed his physical edge and goal-scoring instincts.

The Charlotte native may not be under NHL contract, but with Dallas watching closely, this could be the season where he earns an AHL call-up.

I think if he starts hot again this fall, Texas or another AHL team could take a shot on him.

The Steelheads begin their season October 17 against Tahoe and host the Utah Grizzlies on October 24. With Hoffmann locked in, they're keeping their top scoring threat exactly where they need him.