Glads Bolster Blue Line as Jack Matier Returns from Milwaukee Ahead of Home Playoff Games

The Atlanta Gladiators are getting a key reinforcement at the right time.

The team announced Monday that defenseman Jack Matier has been reassigned from the Milwaukee Admirals, adding size and depth to the blue line as Atlanta continues its South Division Semifinals series against the South Carolina Stingrays.

Matier, who is under contract with the Nashville Predators, returns to Atlanta following Milwaukee’s 2-1 loss to the Manitoba Moose in the opening round of the Calder Cup Playoffs. He did not appear in a playoff game for the Admirals but logged 24 regular-season games with the club, recording one goal and five assists.

During his time with Atlanta this season, Matier made a noticeable impact. The 23-year-old defenseman posted two goals and five assists for seven points in 25 games while carrying a +16 rating. He is expected to slot right back into the lineup and will wear No. 5.

At 6-foot-6 and 205 pounds, Matier brings a physical presence along with strong defensive instincts. He also has familiarity with the Gladiators system, having played 52 games with the team during the 2023-24 season, where he recorded six goals and 11 assists for 17 points.

Originally drafted by Nashville in the fourth round (124th overall) of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, Matier developed through the Ontario Hockey League with the Ottawa 67’s. Over four seasons, he totaled 87 points in 180 games and capped his junior career with a standout 2022-23 campaign, posting 49 points and a +40 rating in 58 games.

On the international stage, Matier has also found success, winning gold with Team Canada at both the 2023 World Junior Championship and the 2021 U-18 World Championship.

His return comes at a pivotal moment.

The Gladiators and Stingrays are currently tied 1-1 in their playoff series as the action shifts to Gas South Arena for Games 3 and 4—the first postseason games in Duluth in eight years. Puck drop for both games is set for 7:10 p.m. as Atlanta looks to build momentum on home ice.