The Allen Americans added two forwards to their 2026-27 roster on Thursday, Sept. 3, signing former NHL draft pick Riley Kidney and Everett Silvertips scorer Zackary Shantz.

Head Coach and General Manager Steve Martinson announced both signings as the Americans, the ECHL affiliate of the NHL's Ottawa Senators, continue building toward their 18th season of professional hockey.

Kidney, a center from Enfield, Nova Scotia, was selected 63rd overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the second round of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. He got a taste of Allen hockey last spring, appearing in four playoff games and recording two goals and one assist.

That short audition left an impression.

"We really liked Riley's game and attitude during his short time with the Americans last season," Martinson said in the team's announcement. "I expect him to be a dominate player in our lineup."

Shantz arrives after four seasons with the Everett Silvertips of the Western Hockey League (WHL). The center posted 27 goals and 38 assists for 65 points in 66 games during the 2025-26 season, according to HockeyDB.

He turns 21 on Wednesday, Sept. 9.

Martinson noted that Shantz made an unusual position switch from wing to center. Most skilled forwards move the other direction, Martinson said, shifting from center to wing because they struggle defensively.

Shantz went the opposite way, and Martinson said he expects the rookie to be one of the top first-year players in the ECHL.

Both players will attend the Belleville Senators' American Hockey League (AHL) camp later in September before reporting to Allen.

Belleville is Ottawa's AHL affiliate, and the camp gives prospects a shot at a higher roster spot before the ECHL season begins.

The Americans open on the road Saturday, Oct. 17 against the Tulsa Oilers. The home opener follows Oct. 29 against the Idaho Steelheads at Comerica Center in Frisco.

That game will mark the first time the Americans have played at the Frisco venue.