By: Jake Ferraro | Follow me on Twitter/X @18Jxxx18
Defenseman Andrew Nielsen was drafted with the 65th overall pick in the 2015 National Hockey League Draft by the Toronto Maple Leafs. Nielsen never got to play in an NHL game after being drafted and bounced around in the minor leagues. After playing for three different ECHL teams during the 2024-25 season, Nielsen signed with the Maine Mariners in November 2025.
Now, after a short stint with the Mariners, Nielsen is off to play hockey overseas. Today, Nielsen signed a contract with the Elite Ice Hockey League’s Coventry Blaze in Coventry, England.
Nielsen, 29, recorded 21 points in 37 games after being signed by the Mariners. Despite not playing the full 2025-26 season, Nielsen led all Mariners defensemen with eight goals and 21 points. Nielsen’s five power play goals were tied for third on the Mariners’ roster.
Despite having a solid regular season in a short stint, Nielsen struggled during the 2026 Kelly Cup Playoffs for the Mariners, recording two assists in seven playoff games. Nielsen finishes his ECHL career recording 117 points in 163 games. Nielsen also recorded 85 points in 258 games during his American Hockey League career. Nielsen hadn’t played in an AHL game since April 2023 as a member of the Cleveland Monsters.
The Mariners have seen changes to their roster this offseason, with departures of key players such as forwards Brooklyn Kalmikov and Jacob Hudson, and goaltender Brad Arvanitis. Now, the Mariners lose Nielsen, their top-scoring defenseman from last season.
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