Manchester Storm are pleased to announce the signing of Canadian defenceman Dennis Busby for the 2025/26 Elite League season, most recently of Adirondack Thunder (ECHL).

The 25-year-old Barrie, Ontario native brings a plenty of experience and a strong offensive presence to the Storm’s blue line. Standing 5’11, and weighing 190 lbs, Busby is known for his solid two-way play and leadership qualities.

Busby was drafted by the Arizona Coyotes in the fifth round (#145 overall) of the 2018 NHL Entry Draft. He spent his entire major junior career with the Flint Firebirds in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) and would go onto play 154 times for the club. His performances earned him a spot with the Tucson Roadrunners, the Coyotes’ AHL affiliate, on an amateur tryout agreement in March 2019.

After his time in the OHL, Busby transitioned to USports hockey with St. Mary’s University in Halifax, competing in the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) conference. In 84 games with the Huskies, Busby posted an impressive 66 points (15G 51A) with his senior year running at more than a point per-game earning him a spot on the AUS Second-Team All Star Team.

In the 2024/25 season, Busby made his professional debut in the ECHL with the Fort Wayne Komets and later joined the Adirondack Thunder, giving the youthful blueliner a taste of things to come ahead of this EIHL campaign.

Head Coach Cam Critchlow expressed his enthusiasm about the addition:

“Dennis is a solid defenceman with a strong understanding of the game. His experience in both junior and collegiate hockey, coupled with his recent professional experience, makes him a valuable asset to our defensive unit. We look forward to seeing him contribute to our team’s success.”

Words by: Callum Schora