The DPD Coventry Blaze have completed the signing of Canadian goaltender Evan Fitzpatrick for the 2026/27 Motorpoint Elite League season, the club has confirmed.
Experienced netminder brought in to strengthen goalie group
Fitzpatrick, aged 28, arrives in Coventry having spent last season in Germany's top tier, the DEL, where he made 23 appearances for the Nürnberg Ice Tigers. His route to European hockey has included spells in Slovakia and in the North American minor leagues, and the Blaze will hope his experience adds consistency between the posts.
Before moving to Europe, Fitzpatrick compiled a substantial body of work in the ECHL and had opportunities in the AHL. His junior career included prominent success, notably backstopping Acadie-Bathurst to the QMJHL title and the CHL Memorial Cup in 2018.
“Evan is a highly competitive goaltender who never quits on the play. He reads the play well, tracks pucks at a high level and brings a veteran presence to our goalie group,” said Head Coach Kevin Moore.
The club have assigned Fitzpatrick the squad number #50. Head coach Kevin Moore emphasised the import of adding a seasoned professional who can both compete for the starting role and provide mentorship within the dressing room.
Statistical overview
Fitzpatrick’s record provides an insight into his career to date and what Blaze fans might expect:
| Competition | Appearances | Save % | Goals-against average |
|---|---|---|---|
| DEL (Nürnberg Ice Tigers) | 23 | N/A | N/A |
| ECHL (career) | 102 | .901 | 2.84 |
| AHL | 14 | .902 | 2.58 |
What this means for Blaze supporters
For Coventry fans, the addition of Fitzpatrick represents a clear move to deepen the squad’s goaltending resources ahead of a season in the Elite League. The club have combined him with existing options to create competition for the starting role and provide cover over a long campaign.
- Fitzpatrick brings top-flight European experience from the DEL.
- He has a proven junior pedigree, including national and continental success.
- The signing is intended to add both performance and mentorship to Coventry’s goalie group.
The Blaze will disclose further details on preseason plans and how Fitzpatrick will be integrated into the squad as the season approaches. Supporters will be watching to see whether he assumes a regular starting role or shares duties as part of a rotation.
This move continues Coventry’s summer recruitment as the club prepares for the challenges of the Motorpoint Elite League and aims to build a squad capable of competing across a demanding calendar.
