American defenseman Joseph Dushak has officially joined the German ice hockey club Straubing Tigers, the team's press service announced. The move marks a new chapter for the 28-year-old blueliner after his recent experiences in the Kontinental Hockey League.
Dushak's most recent season was split between two KHL teams. He began the regular season with the Shanghai Dragons, where he played 16 games and recorded eight assists before departing the Chinese club on November 1, 2025. He then finished the campaign with Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk, leaving the team by mutual agreement.
Over his career in the KHL, Dushak has accumulated a total of 80 points, consisting of 13 goals and 67 assists, across 154 games played. This experience in one of the world's top professional leagues provides a solid foundation for his transition to the German DEL.
Prior to his time in Russia and China, Dushak showcased his offensive capabilities in North America. During the 2021/2022 season, he played in the American Hockey League for the Toronto Marlies, where he had a standout performance with 52 points in 61 games.
The signing adds an experienced, puck-moving defenseman to the Straubing Tigers' roster as they prepare for the upcoming season. Dushak's ability to contribute offensively from the blue line, as evidenced by his AHL and KHL statistics, will be a key asset for the German club.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.