Mberko returns to Cyclones

CINCINNATI, Ohio - The Cincinnati Cyclones, ECHL affiliate of the Toronto Maple Leafs, today announced that goaltender Kaidan Mbereko has re-signed with the team for the 2026-27 season.

Mbereko will skate in his first full professional season after signing with the Cyclones at the conclusion of his collegiate career. He appeared in four contests last season for the Cyclones and recorded a 3.19 goals-against-average in those matchups. On April 4, 2026, Mbereko made 22 saves against the Tahoe Knight Monsters to record his first professional victory in a 3-2 comeback road victory. He would also made his first AHL debut after with the Belleville Senators.

In addition, the 23-year-old served as team captain for the Colorado College Tigers. In 30 appearances, he recorded a .915 save percentage and a 2.53 goals-against average and earned many accolades in one of the toughest conferences in college hockey. He earned NCHC All-Rookie honors in his freshman season (2022-23), was unanimously selected as the NCHC Goaltender of the Year (2023-24) and earned First Team All-American honors as well as a selection to the All-NCHC First Team.