HAT TRICKS RE-SIGN FORWARD ELI RIVERS

DANBURY – The Danbury Hat Tricks announced today that the team has agreed to terms with forward Eli Rivers on a PTO contract for the 2026-27 season.

Rivers, 27, completed his second season in the FPHL in 2025-26 after joining the Hat Tricks halfway through the season. The forward began the season with the Pee Dee Ice Cats, scoring 7 goals and 6 assists in 26 games.

On January 6th, 2026, Rivers was dealt to Danbury (in a package that also included Ricardo Gonzalez and financial consideration) in exchange for Alexander Legkov and the rights to Drew Welsch. The forward made his debut vs Watertown three days later, scoring the overtime winner in a thrilling 5-4 win.

Rivers went on to tally 15 goals and 21 assists in 27 games with Danbury, finishing the season with 22 goals and 30 assists in 53 games.

The Waterbury, Vermont began his pro career in 2024-25 with the Motor City Rockers, collecting 28 goals and 32 assists in 57 games.

General Manager A.J. Galante offered comments on the signing – “Eli Rivers is one of the premier players in our league. He is the complete package, and it will be exciting to see what he does in a full season for us. Couldn't be more excited to see him back.”

Head Coach John Bierchen added to Galante’s remarks, saying “When we acquired Eli, we knew he would bring a lot to our offense and deliver a lot of points. That’s what he did. We’re happy to have him back and expect that same type of production this coming season.” 

The Hat Tricks are excited to welcome back Eli Rivers in 2026-27!

ABOUT DANBURY HAT TRICKS:

The Danbury Hat Tricks are a professional hockey team based in Danbury, CT and compete in the Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL). Since their founding in 2019, the 2023 Commissioner's Cup Champions have brought thrilling, fast-paced, and hard-hitting hockey to the Danbury Ice Arena, earning a reputation for their competitive spirit, electric atmosphere and strong community ties. The team is dedicated to providing an unforgettable game-day experience for fans of all ages while proudly representing the city of Danbury.

Off the ice, the Hat Tricks are committed to fostering connections within the local community through outreach programs with schools, businesses and charities. By developing top-tier hockey talent and growing the sport in the region, the Hat Tricks aim to bring the community together and deliver entertainment that leaves a lasting impact.

For the latest Hat Tricks news, visit www.danburyhattricks.com, follow the team on Facebook (www.facebook.com/danburyhattricks), Instagram (@danburyhattricks), X (@DanburyHatTrick), TikTok (@danburyhattricks), and YouTube (@DanburyHatTricks), and subscribe to the Hat Tricks' newsletter.