For Immediate Release
Thursday, September 3, 2026
Dallas/Allen, Texas – The Allen Americans, ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Ottawa Senators, along with Head Coach and General Manager Steve Martinson, announced today that the team signed forwards Riley Kidney and Zackary Shantz for the 2026-2027 season.
Riley Kidney played in four postseason games for the Americans last season (2 goals and 1 assist). The native of Enfield, NS is a former second round pick of the Montreal Canadians in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. He was selected 63rd overall.
“We really liked Riley’s game and attitude during his short time with the Americans last season,” said Head Coach and GM Steve Martinson. “I expect him to be a dominate player in our lineup.”
Zackary Shantz comes to DFW after four solid seasons in the Western Hockey League where he was just under a point a game player last season, putting up 65 points in 66 games with the Everett Silvertips.
“Zackary (Shantz) is a unique player that switched from wing to center. Usually it’s the other way around,” noted Steve Martinson. Center’s usually move to wing because they are skilled, but not good defensively. I expect him to be one of the top rookies in the league.”
Shantz will turn 21-years old next week on September 9th. Both he and Riley Kidney will be attending Belleville’s AHL camp later this month.
The Americans open their 18th season of professional hockey this October. The team will open the home portion of the schedule on October 29th and 30th with a pair of games against the Idaho Steelheads at Comerica Center in Frisco. TICKETS!
----Allen Americans Professional Hockey Team ----
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