The South Carolina Stingrays have secured forward Jalen Luypen for the 2025–26 campaign, adding a player who brings speed, grit, and proven professional experience. At 23 years old, the Kelowna, British Columbia native already has two seasons in the AHL under his belt.
Professional Experience
Drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 7th round of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, Luypen turned pro with the Rockford IceHogs (AHL) in the 2023 Calder Cup Playoffs. He appeared in three games that spring and transitioned into a full-time role the following season.
In 2023–24, Luypen established himself as a reliable depth forward in Rockford’s lineup. Skating in 64 games, he recorded 20 points (4g–16a), ranking among the top rookie producers on the roster. His offensive game meshed well with his penalty-killing responsibilities, and he earned minutes in late-game situations. He also made four playoff appearances that year.
He followed up with another strong campaign in 2024–25, appearing in 56 games and tallying a career-high eight goals to go with six assists. He also added two assists in seven postseason games, showing his ability to contribute in pressure situations.
During that same season, Luypen saw his first stretch of ECHL action with the Indy Fuel, where he made an immediate impact. In just five games, he notched three points (1g–2a) and quickly proved he could provide offense at the Coast level.
In total, Luypen has played 132 AHL games, collecting 36 points (12g–24a) while gaining valuable experience against top-tier competition.
WHL Success
Before turning pro, Luypen built an impressive résumé in the Western Hockey League (WHL). His breakout season came with the Edmonton Oil Kings in 2020–21, when he scored 29 points (16g–13a) in 23 games during the shortened season. He followed that with a career year in 2021–22, producing 64 points (29g–35a) in 66 games while helping Edmonton win the Ed Chynoweth Cup. In the playoffs, he added nine points in 19 games as the Oil Kings advanced to the Memorial Cup.
He later joined the Tri-City Americans, where he posted 39 points (18g–21a) in 38 games during the 2022–23 season, plus six points in the playoffs. Across five WHL seasons, Luypen totaled 178 points (86g–92a) in 263 games.
Excited to Join the Rays
For Luypen, Charleston represents the next step in a career that’s already tested him at nearly every level of the game.
“I’m excited about getting down there and playing hockey again. I have heard nothing but the best things about Charleston and the fans. I can’t wait to meet everyone and see you all soon!” (South Carolina Stingrays, 2025).
Coach’s Perspective
Head Coach Dave Warsofsky sees him as a difference-maker:
“Jalen is a dynamic player who brings a dimension to the game that not many players do. Jalen can play in all situations, he’s physical, he loves to compete, and he already has valuable professional experience at the AHL level. We’re going to lean on him to be a leader for our group and to help push us toward the playoffs and ultimately a championship. He’s the type of player who can make a real difference for our team” (South Carolina Stingrays, 2025).
What This Means
By signing Luypen, the Stingrays are adding a forward with proven AHL pedigree who can slide into multiple roles. His experience as both a scorer and a defensive-minded forward makes him a versatile fit for a South Carolina lineup that values adaptability.
For a team battling in one of the toughest divisions in the ECHL, Luypen’s ability to chip in offensively, contribute on special teams, and lead by example gives the Stingrays another piece to lean on as they aim for a deep playoff push.
SOURCE:
South Carolina Stingrays. (2025, September 10). Jalen Luypen adds AHL experience to Stingrays roster [Press release].
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