ECHL: Reed Lebster Re-Signs with the Grizzlies

The Utah Grizzlies have announced that they have re-signed 6’0″ forward Reed Lebster for the 2025-26 season.

Junior and Collegiate Career

Reed Lebster began his junior hockey career in the 2016-17 season with the Des Moines Buccaneers of the USHL. Over the next three seasons, he developed into a consistent contributor for the team, appearing in 171 games and recording 43 goals and 37 assists for a total of 80 points. Along the way, he also tallied 91 penalty minutes and finished with a -13 rating. Additionally, Lebster gained playoff experience with the Buccaneers, appearing in seven postseason games where he added four assists, picked up two penalty minutes, and posted a -1 rating.

After four seasons at UMass, Lebster entered the transfer portal for his fifth year, choosing to move closer to home and play his final collegiate season at Michigan State University in East Lansing. During his time with the Spartans, he appeared in 35 games, scoring six goals and adding 13 assists for a total of 19 points. He also recorded 12 penalty minutes and finished the season with a +11 rating. Lebster’s impact helped Michigan State secure the Big Ten Regular Season title, and the Spartans went on to capture the Big Ten Championship as well.

Professional Career

After completing his collegiate career, Lebster signed his first professional contract in the ECHL, finishing his 2023-24 season with the Florida Everblades. Lebster did not play in any regular season games with the Everblades, but played in five playoff games and won the Kelly Cup. He did not have any points but had two penalty minutes and a -1.

Reed Lebster is back with the Utah Grizzlies for the 2025-26 season after an impressive rookie campaign. In 2024-25, Lebster appeared in 67 games, recording 19 goals and 27 assists for 46 points, along with 28 penalty minutes and a -3 rating.

Lebster quickly became a key part of Utah’s offense, contributing both as a goal scorer and a playmaker. His return gives the Grizzlies a reliable offensive presence, and he’ll be a player to watch as he continues to develop in his second professional season.