ROCHESTER, Minn. – After a year and a half away, Nick Kurtiak is making his return to the Grizzlies. The veteran netminder started his junior career with the Grizzlies during the 2023–24 season, posting a solid 2.41 goals-against average and a .907 save percentage over 18 games. He went 13-3-1 in the regular season and carried that momentum into the playoffs, where he delivered a 2.80 GAA and a .913 save percentage across four games in the Fraser Cup Divisional Playoffs.
After stepping in relief in Game 2 of the playoffs, Nick Kurtiak helped the Grizzlies defeat the Alexandria Blizzard and then played a key role in wins in Games 2 and 3, propelling Rochester to the Division Final against Granite City. However, in a season where the Grizzlies struggled to find success against the Lumberjacks, they were ultimately swept in two games. Despite Kurtiak stopping an impressive 55 of 61 shots, Rochester’s offense couldn’t keep pace, bringing their season to an end.
Seeking to challenge himself further, Kurtiak took his talents to Canada to the CCHL with the Renfrew Wolves in 2024–25. Over 36 games, Nick faced a steep learning curve against tougher competition, finishing with a 3.67 GAA and a .895 save percentage. Despite a 10-20-5 record, Nick gained invaluable experience, learning resilience and adapting his game to higher-level play.
Now, back in Rochester, Kurtiak brings with him not only the lessons learned from his time in the CCHL but also a renewed determination to dominate in the NA3HL. The Grizzlies get more than just a goalie, they get a player battle-tested at a higher tier, one who knows what it takes to win and is eager to excel at any level he competes at. Fans can expect the same electricity, miraculous saves and the relentless competitive spirit he brings every time he gets between the pipes. For the Grizzlies, the return of Nick Kurtiak isn’t just a roster move, it’s an addition of a veteran prescence ready to lead and make a difference.
Fans can see Kurtiak and the Grizzlies in action this weekend as the team travels to Wausau for a Friday matchup with the Cyclones, or Next week, as Grizzlies travel up to Blaine for the annual NA3HL Showcase when the Grizzlies face off agains the Texas Roadrunners(12/14 – 9pm), Bozeman Ice Dogs(12/15 – 6:15pm), and the Willmar Warhawks(12/15 – 2:30pm). The game on Friday in Wausau is at 7:10pm, and can be watched on Nahltv.com