ECHL: Savannah Brings Back Defenseman Keaton Pehrson

Earlier today, the Savannah Ghost Pirates announced they have agreed to terms with defenseman Keaton Pehrson for the upcoming 2025-26 ECHL season.

Last season was Pehrson’s rookie year, and he showed flashes of his potential, scoring one goal and adding 13 assists for 14 points in 59 games. The 26-year-old spent five years at the NCAA level prior to joining the Ghost Pirates.

A Championship Background

Pehrson played four seasons at the University of Michigan, where he skated alongside other recent Savannah signee Nick Granowicz. The two spent multiple seasons together in Ann Arbor, capturing two Big Ten titles during their time with the Wolverines.

In his collegiate career, Pehrson showcased his playmaking ability, totaling 36 points in five seasons, with 35 points coming from assists. While at Michigan, he shared the ice with several top NHL prospects, including: Kent Johnson (CBJ), Owen Power (BUF), Matty Beniers (SEA), Cam York (PHI), Luke Hughes (NJ), and Stanley Cup champion Mackie Samoskevich (FLA).

Having been coached by a top-tier staff and competing with elite athletes bodes well for Pehrson’s continued development.

Success at Every Level

Pehrson is no stranger to postseason play, having made the playoffs or won a title at nearly every level he’s played. He still points to his Minnesota high school state championship as his greatest success so far.

After high school, Pehrson went on to the USHL, joining the Tri-City Storm. During his time there, he put up 39 points in 120 games, including 13 goals. Both of his seasons with Tri-City ended with playoff appearances, where he added one goal and two assists in eight USHL postseason games.

Focused on Growth

Pehrson has made it clear that development is his priority heading into his second pro season.

“Savannah is an awesome spot and I’m excited to get back and play in front of the fans at Enmarket. We had a great staff that helped me develop throughout the year in ways I didn’t really know I could. It was a really good experience for a first year in pro hockey, so I was really blessed to have that,” Pehrson said (Savannah Ghost Pirates, 2025, para. 3).

Head coach Jared Staal shares the same vision for Pehrson’s growth.

“I think there’s a lot of untapped potential there. He skates exactly the way we want our defensemen to in our system. We’re going to really lean into getting him more reps this season,” Staal said (Savannah Ghost Pirates, 2025, para. 4).

Looking Ahead

With his first year of pro hockey under his belt, Pehrson will look to take a step forward this season in Savannah. Given his background, skating ability, and physical tools, don’t be surprised if he earns a call-up to the AHL in the near future.

Source: Savannah Ghost Pirates. (2025, July). Ghost Pirates re-sign defenseman Keaton Pehrson for 2025-26 season.