The South Carolina Stingrays have re-signed forward Dean Loukus for the 2025–26 ECHL season, bringing back a young, skilled winger with high offensive potential.
Loukus, a native of Calumet, Michigan, is a 5’10”, 181-pound right-shot left winger who plays with speed, creativity, and tenacity. He returns to the Stingrays after a promising rookie campaign in 2024–25, where he appeared in 53 games, registering five goals and seven assists for 12 points, 25 penalty minutes, and a +7 rating. He added four points (1G, 3A) over seven playoff appearances, contributing during the team’s postseason push.
Trusted Role and Penalty Kill Impact
Known for his grit and consistency, Loukus became a key contributor on what finished as the best penalty kill in the ECHL. Entering his second pro season, the 22-year-old is expected to take on an even greater role.
“Dean Loukus had a really good season for us last year,” said Stingrays Head Coach David Warsofsky. “He showed growth, consistency, and a strong commitment to our team culture. He competes every day and makes the players around him better, both on and off the ice. We’re excited about him taking the next steps in his development and playing a bigger role for us this season” (South Carolina Stingrays, 2025).
From the OHL to the ECHL
Before joining the professional ranks, Loukus spent three seasons in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). He broke out in 2022–23 with the Saginaw Spirit, recording 56 points (17G, 39A) in 65 games and adding 11 points in 11 playoff appearances. In his final junior season, he split time between Saginaw and Mississauga, where he combined for 48 points over 65 games.
Looking Ahead
The Stingrays will look for Loukus to take another step forward in his development as he enters his second pro season. Now, with a full year of ECHL experience under his belt, Loukus brings familiarity, versatility, and offensive upside to South Carolina’s forward group heading into 2025–26.
South Carolina Stingrays. (2025, July 29). Dean Loukus re-signs for the 2025–26 season.
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