Kneen returns to Wichita

WICHITA, Kan. – The Wichita Thunder, ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League’s San Jose Sharks and American Hockey League’s San Jose Barracuda, announced that veteran defenseman Nolan Kneen has re-signed for the 2025-26 season. Action photo of Nolan Kneen of the Wichita Thunder

Kneen, 26, returns for a third season with Wichita and his sixth as a pro. A native of Kelowna, British Columbia, he is coming off his best statistical season of his career. Kneen finished with highs in assists (31) and points (36) and was a +16 in 70 games last season. He was selected as the team’s Defenseman of the Year.

He has skated in 268 professional games split between Wichita, Allen and Florida. Kneen also has 18 games of AHL experience with the Charlotte Checkers. He has tallied 105 points (34g-71a) in 250 ECHL games.

Prior to turning pro, Kneen played six seasons in the Western Hockey League. He played most of his career with the Kamloops Blazers. During his overage year, he skated in 33 games for the Saskatoon Blades. Overall, Kneen tallied 139 points (28g-111a) in 310 career WHL games.