The Belfast Giants retained a key piece of their championship-winning blueline on Monday [28 July].
Mike Lee will reprise his defensive role with the Elite League champions — the American has inked a new one-year in Northern Ireland.
Lee recorded 31 points (nine goals, 22 assists) in 42 regular-season appearances last term, helping the Giants win a historic league and Challenge Cup double.
The 29-year-old arrived in Belfast following a two-season spell with Czech Extraliga side HC Love Zamky, for whom he scored 60 points (15 goals, 45 assists) in 89 games played.
“Mike came in last year and proved himself as a really dependable defenceman for us,” said Belfast head coach Adam Keefe.
“He plays a smart, composed game, bringing a lot of poise to our back end. Having him return gives us a strong foundation to build from and we’re looking forward to seeing him lead by example.”
Who is Belfast Giants defenceman Mike Lee?
Splitting his collegiate career between the University of Vermont and Sacred Heart University, Lee tallied 58 points (10 goals, 48 assists) in 119 NCAA appearances.
Mike Lee, Belfast Giants (Image: William Cherry)
The Connecticut-born blueliner starred in his final campus year, notching 33 points (five goals, 28 assists) in 33 games en route to being named AHA Defenceman of the Year.
Lee signed his first full-time deal with the ECHL’s Indy Fuel in 2020, kickstarting a three-year career in North America’s third highest level of hockey.
He notched 71 points (19 goals, 52 assists) in 99 appearances for the Fuel and Kansas City Mavericks, before seeking a different challenge in Europe.
Lee played two seasons in Czechia, scoring four points (one goal, three assists) in five playoff appearances for Nove Zamky.
His first season in Belfast yielded two pieces of silverware — the Elite League’s regular-season crown and the Challenge Cup.
“I really enjoyed my first season with the Giants and I’m excited to be back,” Lee said of his Belfast return.
“The city, the fans, the organisation — everything about Belfast made it a great place to play. I’m looking forward to getting back in the mix, building on what we started, and pushing for success again this year.”
Why have the Belfast Giants re-signed Mike Lee?
If it isn’t broken, why “fix” it?
And the Giants’ title-winning defence was a tough out.
Lee played an integral role as Belfast swept their rivals aside to win the regular-season crown, finishing the season with a flurry of points and standout performances.
The American recorded at least a point in the Giants’ final seven, including back-to-back game-winning goals versus the Nottingham Panthers.
Capable of playing on either side, Lee’s versatility only adds to the value he contributes.
He projects, once again, as a top-four option for Keefe — who will be ecstatic at having secured Lee’s signature.
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