Season Review: Norfolk Admirals 2025–26 — A Year of Transition and Tough Lessons

The 2025–26 season proved to be a difficult step back for the Norfolk Admirals, a team that entered the year with momentum from the previous seasons, but ultimately struggled to find consistency in a highly competitive North Division. After posting back-to-back strong seasons, including a 40-win campaign in 2024–25, the expectations in Norfolk were to build toward sustained contention. Instead, the year became one defined by inconsistency, defensive lapses, and an inability to keep pace in a loaded Eastern Conference.

Record and Standings Photo Credit: Norfolk Admirals Norfolk finished the season with a 28-37-4 record (60 points), placing them near the bottom of the North Division and outside the playoff picture. The drop-off was significant compared to the previous year’s playoff appearance, highlighting just how thin the margin can be in the ECHL. A negative goal differential 211 goals for, 250 against—underscored the team’s struggles, particularly on the defensive side of the puck.

Offensive Bright Spots Despite the overall record, there were notable individual performances that kept the Admirals competitive on many nights. Veteran forward Brady Fleurent led the way offensively, putting together a standout season with 61 points (31 goals, 32 assists), serving as a consistent offensive driver. Additional contributions came from players like Kristóf Papp, Jack O’Leary, and Jaydon Dureau, who provided secondary scoring and flashes of offensive creativity.

🚨JD SEALS IT WITH THE HAT-TRICK🚨 Jaydon Dureau buries the empty-netter for his 18th goal of the year, completing the hat trick and putting the finishing touch on the afternoon and the season! @ECHL pic. twitter.