Syracuse Crunch Loan Spencer Kersten to Orlando, Release Goalie Jon Gillies
The Syracuse Crunch are making roster moves as the season rolls on, officially loaning forward Spencer Kersten to the ECHL’s Orlando Solar Bears and releasing goaltender Jon Gillies from his professional tryout contract.
For Kersten, this marks a return to familiar territory. The 25-year-old forward has been a key contributor for the Solar Bears this season, notching 15 goals and 19 assists across 28 games. While his time with the Crunch has been limited-just two games this season-his offensive production in the ECHL speaks volumes about his development and potential.
This isn’t Kersten’s first stint with the Crunch, either. He appeared in nine games last season, recording one goal.
He also saw brief action with the Belleville Senators, skating in two games, but it was in Orlando where he truly made his mark. Last season, Kersten logged 60 games with the Solar Bears, putting up 25 goals and 55 total points-setting a franchise rookie record for single-season scoring in the process.
Kersten’s journey from college hockey to the pros has been a steady climb. The Waterloo, Ontario native played three seasons at Princeton University before transferring to Bowling Green State University for the 2023-24 campaign. Over his collegiate career, he tallied 54 points (24 goals, 30 assists) in 129 games, showing off the two-way consistency that’s helped him transition smoothly into the pro ranks.
In total, Kersten has appeared in 13 AHL games between Syracuse and Belleville, with one goal to his name. But it’s in the ECHL where he’s really thrived-98 games, all with Orlando, and 95 points (42 goals, 53 assists) since turning pro in 2023. That kind of production is hard to ignore, and while he’s heading back to Orlando for now, it’s clear the Crunch see long-term potential in the young winger.
As for Gillies, the veteran netminder is now a free agent after being released from his PTO. The move opens up flexibility in the crease for Syracuse as they continue to navigate the grind of the season.
The Crunch will continue to evaluate their roster as the AHL campaign progresses, and with Kersten lighting it up in Orlando, don’t be surprised if we see him back in Syracuse before long.
Fans looking to lock in their spot for the 2025-26 season can grab ticket packages now through the Crunch office or online.