Featured Photo by Kacey O'Brien
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Planning your trip? Check out the full 2026-2027 Adirondack Thunder Hockey schedule.
The captivating stadium lights shining down below, the chilly, yet energetic atmosphere surrounding you, and the thunderous roars of applause and cheers coming from thousands on their feet. This can only mean one thing—it’s almost time for another season of Adirondack Thunder Hockey.
For those new to the area, or perhaps simply have never been to a game, there’s no experience in the Lake George Area quite like the sights and sounds of this local hockey team product. Regardless of whether you’re a hockey fanatic or not, it’s easy to become a part of the excitement, thanks to the fast-paced action of the players, as well as the electrifying vibe created by both broadcasters and crowd alike.
Locals and visitors flock to the Harding Mazzotti Arena from October through April. A pride and joy of the area, this 4,794-seat multi-purpose arena, complete with concession stands and a merch store, is the place of all the Thunder’s home games during the season. Come rain, snow, or shine, it’s a perfect indoor, family-friendly activity during the colder months of the year.
However, as mentioned before, some may be unfamiliar with the team—or perhaps the Lake George Area in general. As such, some may not understand the buildup surrounding the event(s), or perhaps want to learn more. So, to help those of you become more acquainted, here’s a helpful guide on the history, current hype, and enjoyment factors of the Adirondack Thunder phenomenon.
From Humble Sparks to Crashing Bolts
For those who didn’t know, the Adirondack Thunder are a part of the ECHL, or Eastern Conference Hockey League, which consists of 30 teams across 2 divisions. Not only are they an AHL—American Hockey League—affiliate of the Utica Comets, but also an NHL—National Hockey League—affiliate of the New Jersey Devils.
It may be hard to believe, but some of these young athletes playing in our own backyard (or ice rink) move on to play in the NHL, some even going on to win Stanley Cups—a recent example being forward, Ryan Lomberg, with the 2023 Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers. As such, attending Thunder games is a fantastic way of seeing some of the up-and-coming stars of professional hockey.
Believe it or not, the Adirondack Thunder is a relatively new team, only arriving in Glens Falls in 2015. Hockey’s been in the area for decades prior, but from other names you may remember—such as the Adirondack Red Wings in the 80’s and 90’s, or the Adirondack Phantoms of the early 2010’s. The now-current and popular team formed when the previous team, the Adirondack Flames, announced they were relocating to Stockton, California. In exchange, the once-named Stockton Thunder moved right here in the Adirondacks.
It didn’t take long for this young franchise to find success, having advanced to the playoffs in their 1st season during 2015-2016, and having won the 1st playoff series, not seen in Adirondack Hockey since the 1994 Adirondack Red Wings. Shortly afterwards, during the 2017-2018 season, the Thunder kicked things up a notch by finishing in 1st place in their division and reaching the conference finals.
However, there were a few rough years after their initial runs, having been suspended during the 2020-2021 season during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and finishing last in their division in 2021-2022.
Things quickly rebounded though, thanks to head coach, Pete MacArthur, who changed the course of this beloved team back to 1st place, and to another conference finals appearance during the 2023-2024 season. It’s also worth noting that this squad secured the most wins in team history with 43 over 72 games.
Last year, during the 2025-2026 season, the Thunder clinched a playoff spot with 37 wins behind new head coach and Adirondack Hockey Hall of Fame inductee, Sylvain Cloutier. Now, following a successful run, the hype is very much alive for the upcoming 2026-2027 campaign under Cloutier's second year. Nevertheless, hopefully hearing about the legacy and history of this team is able to charge up your excitement to the next level, whether you’re a new fan or a season ticket holder.
Photo Credit: Kacey O'Brien
A Rumbling Roster
Of course, all the hype and ambitions the Thunder have is thanks to the players on the ice. These vigorous, young athletes—who may very well work their way up to the NHL someday—compete in front of local crowds who praise them, and against opposing rivals who wish to best them.
The Thunder organization has done well in retaining several key pieces of their developed system, as well as finding new talent with the hopes of rising to even greater heights. Below are examples of names that will have the analyst inside of you cheering. The fans already are, for sure.
Notable Resigns
Grant Loven – Forward
Entering his third season with the club, Loven has developed a reputation with the fanbase as one of the hardest-working guys on the ice. Loven scored 25 points (10 goals, 15 assists) in both of the past two seasons, and is also a key role on faceoffs.
Conner Hutchison – Defenseman
With prior experience in the United States Hockey League and the British Columbia Hockey League, Hutchison returns for his second year with the Thunder. Highly regarded as a smart and dependable defenseman, Hutchison recorded 16 points (3 goals, 13 assists) in 45 games during the 2025-2026 season.
Brannon McManus – Forward
Entering his second season with the organization, McManus has already established himself as a crowd favorite, earning all-star honors last year. Leading the team with a total of 67 points (31 goals, 36 assists) during 2025-2026, McManus brings a high-powered offense to the team, as well as tremendous character.
New Additions
Tynan Ewart - Defenseman
Joining the Thunder after 10 games with the Maine Mariners last season, as well as having served as captain for Northern Michigan University, Ewart has been referred to as a shut-down defender with valuable experience. He scored 10 points (1 goal, 9 assists) in 34 games last year, and a total of 26 points in three seasons of collegiate play.
Michael Abgrall – Forward
Scoring a total of 51 points (19 goals, 32 assists) in 104 collegiate games with the University of Nebraska-Omaha and College of the Holy Cross, Abgrall—only 22 years old—is eager to hopefully be a key piece in the Thunder's offense this upcoming season.
Photo Credit: Jaynie Ellis
High-Voltage Fun
Besides the games themselves, home attendance is an engaging experience for the whole family, with dozens of theme nights and special events throughout the season. Many of these occasions provide themed giveaways that are sure to make a fan out of anyone. Below are a few examples that have been consistent hits:
*Check out the full 2026-2027 Adirondack Thunder Promotional Schedule.
Home Opener – Featuring various merch-themed giveaways and drink specials.
Military Appreciation Day – The players wear specialty-designed ‘military’ jerseys to be auctioned off after the game.
Kid’s Day Game – Kids can participate in a free postgame skate with the Adirondack Thunder team. The players also wear special ‘kids-designed’ jerseys to be auctioned off.
Fan Appreciation Day – Featuring special giveaways and prizes all game long, 'fan appreciation' jerseys to be given away post-game, and more.
Besides the events, don’t forget to grab a picture with beloved mascot Gunnar during any game. Gunnar frequents the stands throughout the night, hyping up the crowd and delivering high-fives and hugs to the young hockey fans in attendance.
In addition, as mentioned earlier, you can grab concessions from select stands in-between periods, and check out the Adirondack Thunder Merch Store inside the arena before or after any game.
There are so many reasons to be excited for the Adirondack Thunder Hockey season, and we hope you’ll join the crowd for these thrilling—and chilling—spectacles. This team possesses so much vigor and pride, it’s contagious! Every puck drop, every slapshot, every overtime thriller. Every moment is a wonderful experience when you catch the Thunder in action.
Check out all upcoming Adirondack Thunder Home Games!
Want to buy tickets? Reserve your seats by going online today!
*Special thanks to the Adirondack Thunder Communications and Broadcasting team for providing photos for use.
*Originally published on Aug. 23, 2024. Last updated for 2026 on Sep. 08, 2026.