Idaho Steelheads‘ rookie defenseman Willie Knierim(29) returns for his 1st official season after skating 16 games with 3 goals and 4 assists on an ato, following 3 years at Arizona State University Sun Devils, which came after 2 at Miami University (Ohio) Redhawks.
The big 6’4″ 225 lbs. forward split his college time for a season back at the USHL with his team Dubuque Fighting Saints.
He only rolled good college numbers as a junior, scoring 15 goals and 9 assists in 36 NCAA Division 1 games, but with that huge frame out there in front of the net in the pro ranks, he will have chances.
The 24-year old from Chicago, IL likely could play his way up a level with some time and luck.
In 53 ECHL games, he strikes for 17 goals and 12 assists with a +23 rating, then adds another 11 (5, 6) in 20 playoff match ups with a +8 to sign to stay on for more in 2023/2024.