ECHL: Atlanta Gladiators Sign Forward, Mickey Burns

Mickey Burns, a left-winger from Wayne, New Jersey, is will be making his way into the professional hockey scene. The 24-year-old forward has demonstrated skill, speed, and scoring ability throughout his early career, leading to his recent signing by the Atlanta Gladiators, Standing at 5’9″ and weighing 170 lbs, Burnes has built a reputation as a playmaker and goal scorer.

Collegiate Success in the NCAA

Burns began his NCAA career at the University of Vermont during the 2020-2021 season, appearing in five games. He then transferred to Mercyhurst University, where he played from the 2021-2022 season onward. Over five seasons, he played 131 games, amassing 30 goals and 39 assists for a total of 69 points. His offensive contributions, combined with 61 penalty minutes, showcase his ability to balance skill with physicality. Throughout his NCAA career, Burnes maintained a steady points-per-game average of 0.53.

Dominance in the NCDC

Before his collegiate career, Burnes was a standout player in the NCDC. Over three seasons, he played 101 games, scoring an impressive 58 goals and adding 62 assists, totaling 120 points with a 1.19 points-per-game average. His stellar 2019-2020 season saw him leading the league in goals (45) and points (77), earning him multiple accolades:

• NCDC Most Valuable Player
• NCDC Offensive Player of the Year
• NCDC All-Star (American All-Stars)
• NCDC Founders’ Cup (Regular Season Champion)

Early Career and Development

Burns’ early years in hockey laid the foundation for his success. In the USPHL 16U and 18U leagues, he showcased his offensive prowess, tallying 70 points in 53 games at the 16U level and 19 points in 21 games at the 18U level. His dominance in high school hockey (USHS-Prep) was even more remarkable, where he registered 180 points over four seasons, averaging an astounding 8.57 points per game.

Other Transactions by the Atlanta Gladiators

In addition to signing Mickey Burns, the Atlanta Gladiators have made a few other roster moves. The team has released contracted player Patriks Marcinkevics (F), making him eligible for waivers and potential waiver claims. Additionally, Connor Galloway (F) has been placed on the 3-day injured reserve, while Alexander Campbell (F) has been moved from the 3-day to the 14-day injured reserve.