As the Fort Wayne Komets prepare for the 2025 Kelly Cup Playoffs, Kyle Mayhew got to bring home some hardware a little early.

On Tuesday, it was announced that Mayhew is the ECHL Defenseman of the Year for 2024-25. The vote was determined by a panel consisting of ECHL coaches, broadcasters, media relations directors and media members.

The ECHL Defenseman of the Year award is presented annually to the defensive player who demonstrates throughout the season the greatest all-around ability in the position.

Derek Daschke of Utah finished second, followed by Savannah’s Dennis Cesana, Connor Welsh of Worcester and Idaho’s Matt Register.

Named to the All-ECHL First Team last week, Mayhew was tied for seventh among ECHL defensemen with 11 goals, third with 41 assists and fourth with 52 points in 60 games this season. He led all blueliners - and was tied for fourth overall in the league - with 27 power-play points, while ranking second with 22 power-play assists and third with five power-play goals.

Mayhew was loaned to Bakersfield of the American Hockey League on March 18, and he has posted seven points (1-6-7) in 13 games with the Condors.

The Komets will host the Iowa Heartlanders in Game 1 of a division semifinal matchup beginning Friday. Puck drop is set for 7:35 Pm ET.