(RAPID CITY, S.D.)—The Rapid City Rush, proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Calgary Flames, announced Tuesday, in an Active Life Chiropractic roster adjustment, veteran forward Alec Butcher has returned to Rapid City for the 2026-27 season.
Butcher, 32, is back for his second stint in the Black Hills and back in the place where he posted career-high numbers. In the 2021-22 season—Butcher’s only prior year with the Rush—the Anchorage, Alaska native recorded 53 points (23g+30a) in 69 games, career bests in all three scoring categories.
Since last suiting up with Rapid City, Butcher has split the last four years between the Tulsa Oilers and Reading Royals. He faced the Rush 11 times as an Oiler.
“We are thrilled to welcome Alec back to Rapid City,” said Dave Smith, Rush Head Coach and General Manager. “As a seasoned veteran who has been around the league and previously worn the Rush jersey, he brings a competitive edge and a true veteran presence to our locker room. He knows what it takes to succeed at this level and lives it every day, and the fact that he wanted to return here speaks volumes about how much he loved his time in Rapid City.”
The 5-foot-10, 190-pound winger is entering his eighth professional season, all in the ECHL. Between Wheeling, Rapid City, Tulsa, and Reading, Butcher has tallied 259 career points (122g+137a) in 417 games. He has also reached the playoffs in five consecutive seasons and skated in 34 postseason games, including all 11 contests during Rapid City’s 2022 Kelly Cup Playoff run.
Butcher is the third veteran player to sign for the 2026-27 season, joining Ryan Wagner and Logan Nelson. The three of them bring 1,547 combined games of professional experience to Rapid City’s lineup.
The Rush have announced the following player signings:
Forwards (9): Ryan Wagner, Logan Nelson, Rasmus Ekström, Cole Tymkin, Kenny Belanger Jr., Seth Fyten, Ryan Mahshie, Deagan McMillan, Alec Butcher
Defensemen (4): Eric Parker, Jake Ratzlaff, Andrew Noel, Ben Wozney
2026-27 Rapid City Rush season tickets, mini plans, and group experiences are on sale now! You can score the best deals on tickets and take advantage of exclusive perks, including season ticket holder-only events and discounts at the team store. Call the Rush office at 605-716-7825 or visit www.rapidcityrush.com to learn more and secure your seats today.
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