The Greensboro Gargoyles have locked in the first player of their inaugural roster, announcing the signing of veteran forward Logan Nelson. Known for his toughness, offensive consistency, and leadership, Nelson arrives in Greensboro as a foundational piece of the franchise’s identity.
Nelson, the ECHL Journeyman
Before joining the purple and gold, Nelson was drafted in the fifth round of the 2012 NHL Draft by the Buffalo Sabres. Following his selection, he returned to the WHL’s Victoria Royals, where he posted 54 points in 59 games during the 2012–13 season.
Since turning pro, Nelson has become a well-known presence in the ECHL. He’s suited up for Quad City Mallards, Wichita Thunder, Rapid City Rush, Norfolk Admirals, Orlando Solar Bears, Fort Wayne Komets, Indy Fuel, Atlanta Gladiators, Tahoe Knight Monsters, and now the Greensboro Gargoyles. Over 576 career ECHL games, the 6’1” Minnesotan has registered 424 points, including 157 goals.
Best Season and AHL Opportunity
Nelson’s standout season came in 2021–22 with the Rapid City Rush. That year, he recorded 22 goals and 38 assists for 60 points in just 56 games. His performance earned him a five-game call-up to the AHL with the Tucson Roadrunners.
Nelson wore the “A” in Rapid City and later earned the captain’s “C” under Gargoyles Head Coach Scott Burt during the 2023–24 season. Last year, with the Tahoe Knight Monsters, Nelson played in 66 games, tallying 18 goals and 34 assists.
Greensboro’s Newest Hockey Identity
Head Coach Scott Burt is very excited to have the forward join the roster, having said, “Logan is a true warrior and a bit of a throwback player. Logan plays the game hard and hates to lose, which is a mindset that we want all of our players to understand. He has played for me before, and I have seen him grow his game every year, not only on the ice but off it as well. He understands my standards and culture, and he will bring that here to Greensboro.” Head Coach Scott Burt is clearly trying to establish an identity of toughness in Greensboro. After all, what is tougher than stone?
Looking Ahead
With the first member of the Gargoyles officially written in stone, Greensboro can turn its attention to filling out the rest of the roster in the near future. Nelson is a strong start to filling out the roster; however, a single forward is nowhere near enough to fill the locker room. The Gargoyles will need to be very active this offseason and add plenty of talent to field a competitive team this season. Remember that their parent club in Raleigh will want to add some pieces of their own for development. If history is to repeat itself, we’d anticipate a goaltender prospect or two from the Carolina Hurricanes to spend some time in Greensboro. The Gargoyles will begin their inaugural season at home on October 18th, where they will host the Jacksonville Icemen.
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