The Toledo Walleye have re-signed Butrus Ghafari, a defenseman who made his pro debut with the organization in 2020.

Ghafari, a native of West Bloomfield, Mich., played in one game at the end of the 2019-20 season for the Walleye.

A Michigan State University product, Ghafari appeared in 114 games during his four years. Ghafari (pronounced Boo-tris Gah-far-ee) had five points with two goals and three assists in 36 games as a senior.

Just days after completing his senior season at Michigan State, Ghafari suited up for the Walleye in a bizarre game played before no fans at the Huntington Center. On March 11, in the early stages of the coronavirus pandemic, the organization took the unprecedented step of restricting attendance at large indoor gatherings.

Although he did not register a point in the game, Walleye coach Dan Watson re-signed Ghafari before the 2020-21 season.

“Butrus brings a very high compete level to practice and games,” Watson said. “He has the desire to get better each day.”

After the Walleye opted out of last season, Ghafari played in 58 games for the Rapid City Rush of the ECHL. Ghafari tallied 10 points (1 G, 9 A) and 72 penalty minutes in his first full pro season.

The 5-foot-11, 196-pound stay-at-home defenseman was known for his consistency and physicality at Michigan State.

The 25-year-old spent four years at Michigan State. He appeared in 114 total games and produced nine points (4 G, 5 A).

“He demonstrated last season that he can play in our league on a consistent basis,” Watson said.

The Walleye have now officially announced the signings of seven players: Ghafari, goaltender Billy Christopoulos, forwards J.C. Campagna, Marcus Vela, and Brandon Schultz, and defensemen Cole Fraser and Gordi Myer.

First Published August 17, 2021, 5:42 p.m.