Milano officially confirms the signing of American defenceman Tory Dello, of Italian descent, at the start of his second season in Europe following a positive stint at Karlovy Vary in the top Czech league.
Born in Lakewood, Illinois, on February 14, 1997, 183 cm and 88 kg, Dello is a right-shot blueliner — solid and effective in physical battles: a reliable stay-at-home defenseman who is disciplined and dependable in coverage.
His path to professional hockey crossed that of another new rossoblù arrival, Wade Allison: the two are reunited ten years on from their Clark Cup triumph with the Tri-City Storm. Dello was that team's captain and defensive leader, and was awarded the prestigious Curt Hammer Award, the annual USHL honour presented to the player who stands out most both on and off the ice, demonstrating determination, leadership, team spirit and community commitment. His junior years also included significant appearances with United States youth national teams.
At university level, Dello distinguished himself both on and off the ice: two Conference titles (with 40 points in 154 appearances) and a double degree in American Studies and Economics during his four years at Notre Dame.
In 2020 he turned professional with the Grand Rapids Griffins in the AHL. Over five seasons in the second-tier North American pro league — with the Grand Rapids Griffins, Laval Rocket, Chicago Wolves and Utica Comets — Dello accumulated 245 appearances, 57 points and a plus/minus of +33, a figure that speaks to his consistency. In 2024 he signed a one-year two-way contract with the NHL's Detroit Red Wings, taking part in training camp and the pre-season (in March 2025 he was then traded to the New Jersey Devils, playing for their farm team in Utica).
Last season in the Czech Republic he posted 55 appearances, 13 points and a +6, demonstrating his ability to adapt to the European style of play. Now comes his move to Italy — the land of his ancestors, who emigrated from Partanna in Sicily.
"When I think about it, it's incredible," says Dello "Living and playing hockey in Italy, in a cool city like Milan, in a league I know is very competitive. I think I adapted well to the European game last season and I'm ready for a new challenge. I'm reuniting with Wade Allison — I've also faced him as an opponent and I can tell you he's tough! Building a tight group from day one will be key”.
