Former Knights Captain Justin Taylor breaks ECHL’s all-time games record

Former London Knights captain Justin Taylor became the ECHL’s all-time games played leader when he skated in his 885th game Saturday night.

Taylor took to the ice as a member of the Adirondack Thunder to surpass former OHLer Michael Pelech for the league record. Across 16 seasons, the Mindemoya, ON., native has also suited up for Trenton, Idaho, Tulsa, Kalamazoo and Fort Wayne. He ranks eighth all-time in ECHL history with 296 goals and 13th with 579 points. Taylor is also Kalamazoo’s all-time leader in games played (706), goals (260) and points (504).

“On behalf of the ECHL, I would like to congratulate Justin Taylor on breaking the ECHL record for career games played,” ECHL Commissioner Ryan Crelin said. “In our decorated 38-year history, this accomplishment speaks volumes to the hard work, dedication, professionalism and love of the game that Justin has portrayed for all of these years in our league.”

Celebrating Justin Taylor today as he breaks the ECHL record for most games played 👏 pic.twitter.com/N6CWVduWXS

— Adirondack Thunder (@ECHLThunder) December 14, 2025

“I definitely envisioned playing for a long time, maybe not still in the minors, but just staying in North America and playing that style, that’s the reason I kept going,” he said. “Also, my wife is from southwest Michigan, and from playing in Kalamazoo all those years (13 seasons), she can be with her family, and then I can be home all the time, so it just kind of made sense.” added Mike Taylor

However, the 36-year-old – who has also played 25 AHL games – is still seeking his first Kelly Cup as an ECHL champion.

As a member of the Knights, Taylor played 231 games from 2006-10 where he tallied 202 points (102 goals) and captained the side in his final season.

Taylor was the 180th overall pick by the Washington Capitals in the 2007 NHL Draft.