WEST DES MOINES, Iowa — The Des Moines Buccaneers have completed a trade with the Chicago Steel, acquiring defenseman Max Dessner.

Trade Details:

Des Moines receives	Chicago receives
Max Dessner, D, 2009 2027 Phase I Rd 5 (CR) 2027 Phase I Rd 5 (SC)	2027 Phase I Rd 2 2027 Phase I Rd 3

Dessner is a 2009-born defenseman who spent the 2025-26 season with the Tri-City Storm, seeing ice in 35 games last season. Before his time in the USHL, the Eden Prairie, Minn., native played two years at Shattuck-St. Mary's. 

"Max is a really good skater who can transport the puck and add another dimension to our lineup," said Derek Damon, Head Coach & President of Hockey Operations. "He brings an element we felt we needed, and we're excited to welcome Max to Des Moines."

About the Buccaneers   
Founded in 1980, the Des Moines Buccaneers are a proud member of the United States Hockey League (USHL), the nation's premier junior hockey league. The Bucs have a history of success in the USHL, including 4 Clark Cup Championships, 4 Anderson Cup Championships, and 54 alumni drafted to the National Hockey League, including Stanley Cup Champions Kyle Okposo, Alex Chiasson, Trevor Lewis, Davis Drewiske, and Erik Cole. The organization is committed to developing young players on and off the ice, preparing them for a future in collegiate and professional careers. Known for their passionate fan base, the Bucs play their home games at The MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex, a multi-sport complex in West Des Moines, Iowa.   
 
To learn more, visit www.bucshockey.com or follow the Bucs on social media: @bucshockey on X and Instagram, @desmoinesbuccaneers on TikTok, and Des Moines Buccaneers on Facebook. For more information about ticket packages, including season and group outings, please contact (515) 278-2827.