INDEPENDENCE, Mo. – As the summer goes on, signings are announced, and rosters begin to come together for the 2019-20 season. In the past week, the Kansas City Mavericks have announced two big-time contract renewals for Greg Betzold and Corey Durocher.
Betzold had a career year last season, finishing off with 56 points (25 goals and 31 assists). He dominated the league in March, being recognized by the ECHL for Player of the Week and Month honors. His signing news was announced on July 24.
On July 22, the team announced Durocher is back, as well. He was credited for 36 points on the year with 18 goals and 18 assists. He was a big part of the road to the Kelly Cup playoffs, and contributed in the postseason push as well. Durocher was third in postseason scoring, picking up seven points in the first-round games with five goals and two assists.
Another renewal for the upcoming season is Neal Goff. Goff finished his second season with the Mavericks with eight points. He also recorded 61 penalty minutes to bring a physical presence to the blue line. Goff played in 55 regular season games and three postseason games last year. His signing was announced on July 17.
In big summer Mavericks news, captain Rocco Carzo is unsurprisingly back again. He led the team in scoring last season. This fact is impressive on its own, but even more surprisingly after his battle with a knee injury during the 2017-18 season. Carzo came for a comeback season and was a big reason the team had such great chemistry. He used his veteran knowledge, combined with the help of the other natural leaders in the locker room, to turn the team around within a season. Carzo scored 20 goals and assisted on 39 for a total of 59 points. News broke for his return on July 9.
Other earlier player contract announcements this summer were announced on June 26, when the team confirmed they locked down C.J. Eick and Loren Ulett. Eick was credited with 27 points (12G+15A); Ulett compiled eight points (3G+5A).  Eick always brings a determination day in an day out, and does not let his smaller size hold him back. He will skate out every play hard and never give up on his team. Ulett, on the other hand, brings a booming physical presence along the boards. His strong figure could easily knock the wind out of an unsuspecting skater. Both players are exciting to have back for their specific sets of skills.
Already having six returning Mavs for the upcoming season brings fans great joy and excitement. As the season approaches, more signings will be announced. After AHL and NHL camps and preseason games come to an end, it will be easier to determine who will be included in the filled out roster.
Signings as of July 26, 2019. To keep tabs on all ECHL player signings this offseason, check out The Sin Bin’s ECHL Transactions page!