The Niagara IceDogs have named Kevin He the nineteenth captain in franchise history.
Earlier today, the Niagara IceDogs announced that Kevin He will be the nineteenth captain in franchise history. This announcement comes a day after the team traded former captain Gavin Bryant to Peterborough.
"I was super honored and excited when I found out," said He. "It has been a busy couple of days."
Drafted early in the second round of the 2022 OHL Priority Selection by Niagara, He is a skilled forward who works hard and leads by example.
"If you're around Kevin you see how hard he works," said GM Wes Consorti. "Every day he has shown the commitment and dedication that is required at this level."
He's ability to lead by example will be very important for the young core in Niagara. Consorti says that young players in the organization should look to He's example to understand what is expected from players at the OHL level.
The team is off to a hot start boasting a 7-2 record which places them at the top of the Eastern Conference. He's individual performance early in the season has been nothing short of spectacular.
The young star averages a goal and an assists per game having amassed nine goals and nine assists for a total of 18 points. That point total places him fourth in OHL scoring.
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According to Head Coach Ben Boudreau, He is the only Niagara IceDogs player to be taken in an NHL Draft over the last six years. The Winnipeg Jets drafted Kevin in the fourth round of the 2024 NHL Draft.
"I think going to Winnipeg gave him a lot of confidence," said Constanti. "He got a little taste of pro hockey and he is bringing that here."
However, individual accolades are not on He's mind. His focus in on trusting the process and ensuring that he and his teammates concentrate on the details and continue to play the right way.
Joining He in a leadership position will be Jack Brauti who will have a shiny new A on his jersey come the next game.
Many were shocked by Niagara's success to start the season. They struggled last season and finished near the bottom of the league. He attributes this year's success to how close this year's team is.
"I couldn't be here without my teammates, they are the ones who mean the most to me," said He. "I am super proud of this group right now."
Led by their new captain, the IceDogs will play three games in three days. Their opponents in order are the Oshawa Generals, Sarnia Sting and the red-hot Windsor Spitfires.