Manitoba's Kyle Capobianco Named AHL's Best Defenceman

Manitoba Moose blueliner Kyle Capobianco has been named the American Hockey League's Eddie Shore Award recipient for the 2023-24 season.

The annual recognition goes to the league's most outstanding defenceman, as voted upon by AHL media and players. 

The 26-year-old defender led all AHL defencemen with 54 points in 69 games played, while finishing second in points to just rookie forward Brad Lambert on the Moose.

Capobianco scored 12 times and added 42 assists, while finishing as the only AHL blueliner to register at least 50 points on the year. The Mississauga product had six power play goals and one while shorthanded. 

In the final season of a two-year contract signed two summers back, Capobianco was unable to secure a spot on the Jets out of training camp, after serving as the eighth defender last year. 

He was named a 2023-24 First Team AHL All-Star, while also suiting up in the AHL All-Star Weekend earlier this season. 

Manitoba began its Calder Cup Playoff run with a 6-3 loss to the Stars in Texas on Tuesday night. Games 2 and 3 of the best-of-three series will also be played in the Lone Star State.