Durham Signs Stanley Cup Winner, Bickell

Durham signs former Stanley Cup champion

Another high-profile player joins NPHL

The Durham Devils have signed three-time Stanley Cup champion Brian Bickell for the 2025-26 season.

Bickell spent most of his career as a member of the Chicago Blackhawks with a one-year stint with the Carolina Hurricanes. The Bowmanville native suited up in nearly 400 NHL games and scored 66 goals while adding 70 assists. 

Bickell won the Stanley Cup with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2013 and 2015 and played in four early playoff games during the team's run to the 2010 Stanley Cup championship. He spent nearly 10 years with the Blackhawks organization before being traded to the Hurricanes for the 2016–17 season.

“The veteran forward brings elite experience, leadership and a championship pedigree to our inaugural roster,” said Devils General Manager Justin Nesbitt “A native of Orono, Bickell spent 10 seasons with the Blackhawks and Hurricanes and played a key role in the Blackhawks 2013 and 2015 Stanley Cup runs.”

Bickell scored a crucial goal in game six of the 2013 final against the Boston Bruins, tying the game before David Bolland’s game-winning goal 17 seconds later. 

“We are beyond excited to welcome Brian to the Devils, both as a great player and part owner. His extensive knowledge of the game and vast experience both on and off the ice will be such a positive factor for the rest of our roster and organization,” added Co-Owner Stephen Horn.

NPHL  Co-Owner Josh Rowlands said Bickell is another feather in the league’s cap as it continues to grow.

“Brian’s hockey experience will be a benefit to the league both on and off the ice. He has demonstrated a level of hockey and community support through his professional career that will help grow the Durham Devils and the league as a whole.”

Rowlands added the league expects more high-level signings as the 2025-26 season approaches.

“The league’s growth has certainly attracted the interest of former NHL, European and other high-level players. We are excited to show our fans the product that is coming on the ice throughout the league.”