New Goalie Signed: The Augsburger Panther signed 29-year-old goaltender Peyton Jones from the Vienna Capitals (ICEHL).
Dual Citizenship: Jones, born in the US, recently acquired German citizenship, making him a valuable asset under league rules.
Keller Retires: Long-time goalie Markus Keller (35) is retiring from professional play. He holds the club record for most games played by a goalie (228).
Keller's New Role: Starting May 1st, Keller will become the new Team Manager, succeeding Duanne Moeser.
Moeser Steps Back: Club icon Duanne Moeser will reduce his duties after nearly two decades as Team Manager but will remain involved as a brand ambassador.
Why this matters: These changes represent a significant shift in both a key on-ice position (goaltending) and the team's management structure, potentially impacting team dynamics and future performance.
The Augsburger Panther are preparing for the 2025-26 season with notable personnel changes. The first new signing is goaltender Peyton Jones. The 193 cm (6'4"), 97 kg (214 lbs) netminder brings experience from various leagues. He started the 2024-25 season with Indy Fuel in the ECHL before moving to the Vienna Capitals in November. His European experience also includes stints with the Belfast Giants (including 6 CHL games) and Nottingham Panthers in the UK's EIHL during the 2022-23 season. Jones also boasts 9 AHL games and 93 ECHL appearances, including participation in the 2023-24 ECHL All-Star Game. Sport Director Larry Mitchell highlighted Jones' size, athleticism, and European experience, expressing confidence in his ability to compete in the DEL, supported by goalie coach Dennis Endras, who continues his dual role with the Panthers and the German national team. Jones will wear number 41.
Simultaneously, the club announced the retirement of Markus Keller. The Augsburg native hangs up his skates after 228 appearances for the Panthers, surpassing Dennis Endras as the club's record-holding goalie. Keller's career included winning the DEL2 championship with Kassel Huskies (as Playoff MVP) in 2016 and reaching the DEL semi-finals with Augsburg in 2019.
Keller isn't leaving the organization; he will step into the role of Team Manager on May 1st. This move facilitates a planned transition, as incumbent Team Manager Duanne Moeser desired to reduce his workload. Moeser, a Panther legend both as a player (1989-2005) and manager (since 2005), will stay connected to the club as a brand ambassador.
While Jones is confirmed, he is expected to serve as the backup. The crucial Number 1 goalie position remains open. Strauss Mann, who played a key role in the team's success late last season, returned to the US without a contract offer, though his return isn't ruled out. Rumors suggest Tobias Ancicka, currently under contract with Kölner Haie but potentially seeking a starting role after injury, could be a target.
Q: Who is Peyton Jones?
A: Peyton Jones is a 29-year-old American-German goaltender signed by the Augsburger Panther for the 2025-26 season. He previously played in the ECHL, ICEHL, and EIHL.
Q: What is Markus Keller's new role?
A: After retiring as the club's record-holding goalie, Markus Keller will become the Augsburger Panther's Team Manager starting May 1, 2025.
Q: Who will be the starting goalie for the Augsburger Panther next season?
A: The starting goalie has not been officially announced. Peyton Jones is expected to be the backup, while the starter could potentially be Strauss Mann (if he returns) or another signing, with Tobias Ancicka mentioned in rumors.
The Panthers are undergoing a significant transition in goal and team management.
Fans will see a new face in Peyton Jones backing up the net.
A club legend, Markus Keller, moves from the ice to a key management position, ensuring continuity in leadership.
The starting goalie position remains a key area to watch in the off-season.
Who do you think will be the starting goalie for the Augsburger Panther next season? Let us know your thoughts!
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