Adler extend with Esposito and Renouf - Adler extend with Esposito and Renouf
Adler Mannheim forward Luke Esposito suffered a serious injury during a game against Eisbären Berlin in September 2025. The incident led to an immediate hospital visit after he was stretchered off the ice. Meanwhile, the club had recently secured his future by extending his contract for the 2026/27 season alongside teammate Dan Renouf and four others.
The collision occurred mid-game when Esposito clashed violently with Eisbären Berlin’s Yannick Veilleux. The impact forced officials to halt play while medical staff attended to the injured player. He was later transported to hospital for further assessment.
Following the incident, the German Ice Hockey League imposed a six-game suspension on Veilleux. A fine was also issued for his role in the collision. Before the injury, Esposito had been a key contributor for Adler Mannheim, recording 11 points in the current season. His performance had helped earn him a contract extension, announced alongside deals for Dan Renouf, Tom Kühnhackl, Maxi Heim, Hayden Shaw, and Matthias Plachta. Renouf, a defenseman, also signed on for another year with the team.
The league’s disciplinary action against Veilleux remains in effect. Esposito’s recovery timeline has not yet been confirmed. Adler Mannheim’s extended contracts for six players, including Esposito and Renouf, remain in place for the 2026/27 campaign.
