Prior to making his professional hockey debut, Ellis spent four seasons in junior hockey with the St. Michael's Majors where his offensive contributions helped the club to the Central Division title in 2001-02. After the Detroit Red Wings signed Ellis, he was sent to compete with the club's affiliate, the Toledo Storm of the ECHL. Ellis produced in Teledo and earned a spot with the AHL's Grand Rapids Griffins the following season. He would spend four seasons with the club and become the youngest captain in Griffins' history before making his NHL debut for the Red Wings in a December 18th loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Ellis was claimed off waivers by Los Angeles on February 21, 2008, but only appeared in 19 games for the club before being claimed off waivers again, this time by the Buffalo Sabres on October 1, 2008.

In 2009-10 Ellis appeared in 72 games for the Sabres, setting a new career high in that department.

Courtesy of the Hockey Hall of Fame