(INDEPENDENCE, Mo.)—The Rapid City Rush (1-0-0) opened up the 2026-27 season with a wire-to-wire victory, defeating the Kansas City Mavericks (0-1-0), 6-3, at Cable Dahmer Arena on Friday.
Facing former Rush goaltender Connor Murphy, Rapid City wasted little time striking. Ryan Wagner opened the scoring 4:21 into the first period, scoring his 54th career goal with Rapid City. Ryan Hofer doubled up the lead ten minutes later, potting home a rebound to give the Rush a 2-0 lead at the first intermission.
Kansas City presented a challenge in the second period, registering the first seven shots and an early goal from Nolan Walker. Rapid City fought back with an Alex Campbell five-hole tally off a faceoff play. Walker countered with another goal 22 seconds later, only for Campbell–who finished with three points–to wire his second snipe of the period and restore a 4-2 advantage.
The Mavericks again cut the lead to one in the third period on a deflection goal from Phip Waugh. Rapid City’s defense held the defending Western Conference champions at bay for the next 11 minutes and regained their insurance, courtesty Alex Young. The newcomer took a Wagner drop pass and buried a wrist shot just below the crossbar with three minutes remaining.
Logan Nelson hit an empty net in the final minute, sealing a 6-3 final score for the Rush.
The Rush scored twice in each period, did not trail at any point, and were not tied beyond 0-0 in an impressive showing. Additionally, Rapid City limited the Mavericks’ offense to just 29 shots on goal.
Owen Say recorded his first ECHL win in his first start, going 20-for-23. The second-year pro played his first game since January 10th, missing the bulk of last season after suffering a lower-body injury in Abbotsford.
Murphy stopped 17 out of 22 in the loss.
Rapid City delivered their first season-opening victory since 2023 at Iowa. The Rush are 1-0 in the Mountain Division for the first time since 2022.
Next game: Saturday, October 17 at Kansas City. 5:05 p.m. MDT puck drop from Cable Dahmer Arena.
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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