Powell River Kings have added another defender to their roster for the 2022/2023 BC Hockey League season. 2003-born Jack Blanchett has signed with the team.
The 19-year-old from Monroe, Michigan, played 98 games in the North American Hockey League (NAHL) over the last two seasons in stints with Wichita Falls Warriors and Maryland Black Bears. He is committed to play college hockey at Lake Superior State University.
Coming off a successful 2021/2022 campaign which saw Blanchett find his offensive touch by nearly tripling his point total from the season prior with 22 (11 goals and 11 assists) in 54 games, he said he is excited to come and play for the Kings.
“I want to thank everyone in the Kings organization for the opportunity to play in the BCHL," stated Blanchett in a media release. "I am looking forward to hitting the ice in Powell River next month. I can't wait to meet my coaches and teammates. It's going to be a great season."
With the Kings looking to significantly improve on the defensive zone next season, Blanchett's skills and experience will be looked upon to help improve the blueline corps.
“Jack is a superb two-way defenceman; he has a great shot, moves with ease and can defend very well in his own zone,” stated Kings’ coach Brock Sawyer. “He is very mature on and off the ice. We are pleased to add him to our back end and be a part of his development before he is off to Lake Superior State in two years."
Blanchett will be the second Black Bear to play for the Kings in the last two seasons. Former captain Dylan Finlay suited up in 33 games for Maryland during the 2020/2021 season.
