The New Mexico Goatheads have added one of the ECHL's most productive defensemen to their inaugural roster, signing Derek Daschke to an ECHL contract for the 2026-27 season.
Daschke comes to New Mexico after a 2025-26 season that saw him compete at multiple levels of professional hockey. He spent time with the Abbotsford Canucks of the American Hockey League, the primary developmental league below the NHL, and Lukko of Liiga, Finland's top professional league and one of the premier leagues in the world. He also appeared in nine games with the ECHL's Kalamazoo Wings.
“Derek is an elite puck-moving defenseman, a smooth skater and a premier power-play quarterback,” said Head Coach Zack Stortini. “His ability to control the game with his size, vision and high hockey IQ will be exciting for our fans to watch and for our players to play alongside.
“Beyond his on-ice ability, Derek is a proven leader who leads through communication and character. He has consistently been trusted with leadership roles throughout his career, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to the New Mexico Goatheads.”
The 28-year-old defenseman has established himself as one of the ECHL's top offensive threats from the blue line. Daschke put together a career year with the Utah Grizzlies in 2024-25, recording 17 goals and 39 assists for 56 points in just 65 games. His performance earned him All-ECHL First Team honors.
The season before, Daschke played all 72 regular-season games for Kalamazoo and finished with 38 points (16 goals, 22 assists). Across his two full ECHL seasons from 2023-25, Daschke combined for 33 goals, 61 assists and 94 points in 137 games.
Before beginning his professional career, Daschke played five NCAA seasons between Miami University and the University of Minnesota Duluth. He totaled 101 points (26 goals, 75 assists) across 170 collegiate games.
Leadership has also been a consistent part of Daschke's career. He served as an alternate captain at Miami in 2020-21 before being named team captain the following season. Prior to college, Daschke also captained the Chicago Steel of the USHL during the 2017-18 season.
Daschke adds another experienced presence to the Goatheads' blue line as New Mexico continues building its roster ahead of its inaugural ECHL season.
The Goatheads open the 2026-27 regular season on Friday, Oct. 16, against the Idaho Steelheads at the Rio Rancho Events Center.
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