Sport: Hockey Country: Mexico Category: Scores & Results

Goatheads sign Artem Pugachev and Derek Daschke for inaugural season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 1, 2026, 3:05 AM

Last updated Aug 1, 2026

Hockey

Summary

The New Mexico Goatheads announced the signings of forward Artem Pugachev and defenseman Derek Daschke for the 2026-27 ECHL season, which begins on October 16. Pugachev, 25, joins after four seasons in the All-Russian Hockey League, while Daschke returns to the ECHL after a season split between multiple leagues. Pugachev tallied nine goals and 16 assists in his VHL career, while Daschke has recorded a total of 39 goals and 70 assists across his ECHL tenure. Their additions mark a continued effort to strengthen the first-year franchise as it prepares for its debut.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Pugachev adds international experience from the All-Russian Hockey League.
•Daschke returns to ECHL with previous success in multiple leagues.
•The 2026-27 ECHL season starts on October 16 at the Rio Rancho Events Center.
•Pugachev is the fifth player signed by the Goatheads, Daschke is the sixth.

Latest Updates

3:05 AMYahoo Sports — Goatheads procure international flair for roster

What they're saying

"
The New Mexico Goatheads have added some international experience to their roster. The Colorado Avalanche’s ECHL affiliate announced the signings of forward Artem Pugachev on Tuesday and defenseman Derek Daschke on Thursday for the 2026-27 season, which begins Oct. 16 at the Rio Rancho Events Center. The two are the fifth and sixth players, respectively, to join the first-year franchise. ...
— Yahoo Sports

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