All-Star Parizek returning to Steelheads

Boise, ID (8/7/18) – Steelheads Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations Neil Graham announced on Tuesday that the Idaho Steelheads have agreed to terms with forward Justin Parizek on an ECHL contract for the 2018-19 season.

Parizek, 26, looks to build on a standout rookie season with the Steelheads. The Lakeville, Minnesota native ranked fourth among all ECHL rookies with 27 goals and second with 60 points in 64 games, finishing second on the Steelheads roster in scoring in his first pro season. Parizek was the Steelheads’ representative at the ECHL All-Star Classic in Indianapolis in January, where he had a goal and two assists in the showcase tournament.

The 6-foot-1 forward produced two goals and six points in seven games during his first Kelly Cup Playoffs.

“Justin is an exciting hockey player who brings speed and scoring to the lineup,” said Graham. “He is always very prepared and takes pride in the details of his development.”

Parizek was a special teams force for Idaho, scoring eight power play goals and adding two shorthanded goals. He tied for second among ECHL rookies in power play goals.

“I couldn’t be happier to be back in a Steelheads jersey,” said Parizek. “I’m excited for the upcoming season and can’t wait to get things rolling. I’m ready to do whatever it takes to help this team win a championship.”

Parizek was among Idaho’s most consistent scorers in 2017-18, ultimately earning Steelheads Rookie of the Year honors. He posted four separate points streaks of five games or more, his best stretch an eight-game streak in which he posted six goals and nine points. Parizek did not go consecutive games without a point until December 1st, a stretch that helped earn him a three-game stint with the American Hockey League’s San Jose Barracuda in mid-December.

“We expect him to take on an even bigger leadership role this upcoming season,” said Graham. “He has the ability to make game-changing plays.”

The rookie led the league in shootout goals, scoring on six of his nine attempts. No other player in the league scored more than four goals in the shootout.

“There is no other place I’d rather be than in Boise,” said Parizek. “It was an easy decision for me to come back to the best organization in the league.”

Prior to joining the Steelheads, Parizek played for years of NCAA Division I hockey at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. He served as captain during his senior year and finished his college career with 34 goals and 75 points in 133 games.

Parizek is the eleventh player announced by the Steelheads this off-season, and the eighth member of last year’s team to rejoin.