Defenceman Zsombor Garát is returning to the Nottingham Panthers, after signing a new contract for the 2025/26 season.
The 27 year old Hungary international joined the Panthers in October, and was one of the top defencemen in the league last season.
He scored 26 points, in 64 matches, and made the pass to Cooper Zech, to set up Mitch Fossier’s game winning goal in double overtime, in the 4 to 3 victory over Cardiff Devils in the Grand Final.
Garát, who is currently with Hungary preparing for the World Championship in Denmark, said: “I am thrilled to be returning to Nottingham for next season.
“From the moment I walked in the locker room, I could tell this was a place I wanted to be.
“I loved my time in the city, and with the Panthers, and it was a no brainer to return again for another year.
“We had such a special group of guys, and winning the playoffs was just a fantastic feeling.
It’s exciting to now be in a position to build on that going forward.”
Head Coach, Danny Stewart, said: “Getting Zee back is a massive boost to our backend.
“His addition to our line-up last October solidified us back there, and played a huge part in our success last season.
“Zee has an exceptional head for the game.
He makes good reads all over the ice, both offensively and defensively, and will play a big part in driving our group next season.”
