The Allen Americans signed defenseman Nolan Kneen for the 2026-27 season, bringing back a physical blueliner who skated two seasons in Allen early in his career.
The team announced the signing Thursday, Sept. 17. Kneen, 27, spent three seasons with the Wichita Thunder from 2023-24 through 2025-26 before returning to the Americans, the ECHL affiliate of the NHL's Ottawa Senators.
Head Coach and General Manager Steve Martinson said Kneen brings the veteran presence he had been looking for on the blue line. "I've been waiting for the right veteran D-man to join our team," Martinson said. "We will have a lot of blueline skill this year, but with more physicality."
Martinson described Kneen as a player with experience, skill and a physical style of play.
By the numbers
The 6-foot, 200-pound Kelowna, British Columbia, native posted 21 points in 66 games with Wichita during the 2025-26 season. His best professional season came in 2024-25, when he recorded 36 points in 70 games for the Thunder.
Allen fans first saw Kneen during his 2020-21 rookie season. He recorded eight points in 25 games that year, including three goals and five assists. He returned for 2021-22 and logged 12 points and 44 penalty minutes in 31 games under Martinson. That physical edge stood out: 44 penalty minutes in just 31 games.
After three years in Wichita, Kneen rejoins an Allen roster preparing for the franchise's 18th season of professional hockey.
Season opener
The Americans open on the road Saturday, Oct. 17, against the Tulsa Oilers in Oklahoma, according to the team's schedule announcement. The home opener follows Thursday, Oct. 29, against the Idaho Steelheads at Comerica Center in Frisco. The Oct. 29 game marks the first time the Americans will play at Comerica Center.
Fans can call 972-912-1000 for season ticket and group ticket information.
