ECHL: Bobby Russell Re-Signs With Toledo Walleye

The Toledo Walleye are bringing back a familiar face on the blue line, re-signing 25-year-old defenseman Bobby Russell for the 2025-26 ECHL season.

Back for Another Run in Toledo

Russell made an impact in his first stretch with Toledo last season after being acquired from Greenville. In 31 games with the Walleye, he chipped in two goals and four assists while holding down steady minutes on the back end. He also suited up in one playoff game as Toledo pushed toward another postseason run.

Before arriving in Ohio, Russell played 28 games for the Swamp Rabbits, adding two goals and eight assists. His combined 10 points over 59 games in 2024-25 showed his ability to chip in offensively while keeping things tight defensively.

Seasoned Pro With AHL Experience

Since turning pro in 2021-22, the Langley, British Columbia native has played in over 200 ECHL games between Greenville and Toledo, amassing 64 points. He has also had multiple stints in the AHL, showcasing his ability to step up when called upon.

Russell made his AHL debut with the Ontario Reign during the 2021-22 season, registering an assist in his very first game. He also appeared in nine games with the Charlotte Checkers that year, gaining valuable experience against faster, more physical competition. Those call-ups provided him with a taste of the next level, sharpening his reads, improving his gap control, and adding to his overall poise under pressure.

WHL Roots

Russell began his path to the pros in the WHL, breaking in with the Kootenay Ice during the 2016-17 season. He spent two years in Cranbrook before the team traded him to the Spokane Chiefs, where his game flourished. In Spokane, he took on a bigger role and logged time on both the penalty kill and power play. His most productive year came in 2019-20, when he scored six goals and added 16 assists for 22 points in 58 games, anchoring the Chiefs’ blue line with steady play.

Over five WHL seasons, Russell played 178 regular-season games, producing 17 goals and 41 assists for 58 points, and added six points in 21 playoff contests. His WHL experience built the foundation for the reliable, two-way defenseman he is today.

What He Brings to the Walleye

At 6’0” and 187 pounds, Russell plays a dependable game built on smart positioning, quick puck movement, and a willingness to jump into the play when needed. With his mix of experience and consistency, he’s poised to be a key piece of Toledo’s defensive unit heading into the new season.