The recently turned 16-year-old defenceman in the Shawnigan Lake School midget prep program has officially committed to the B.C. Hockey League team for the next two years.
The first round (16th overall) bantam draft choice of the Swift Current Broncos of the Western Hockey League has opted for the Junior A route.
It’s no surprise he chose the Grizzlies, considering he has already committed to the University of Denver for 2019-20.
“I’m just excited to play junior hockey in my hometown,” said Alexander. “It was a very comfortable decision because it’s a good hockey team, having won its division this year. I wanted to go to a good organization and remain at home playing.”
Alexander, a mobile and talented defenceman, who stands five-foot-10 and weighs 175 pounds, has been highly recruited by the Grizzlies staff. He has a strong relationship with part-owner, vice-president of hockey operations and longtime scout Donnie Robinson.
“I pretty well felt he would come along. He just had to make up his mind,” said an elated Robinson, who has watched Alexander since his peewee playing days. “He has a huge upside and I think he’ll figure out the next level pretty fast.
“His skating is up there with a guy like [Colorado Avalanche defenceman] Tyson [Barrie],” added Robinson. “You don’t like to compare kids, but he has a similar style.”
His route also compares with another former Grizzlies defenceman, Nolan De Jong, who moved on to the University of Michigan where he is a co-captain and became a draft choice of the Minnesota Wild. De Jong joined the Grizzlies at 16 and flourished.
“We’re excited,” said Grizzlies general manager and head coach Craig Didmon. “We’ve been interested in Jacson’s progress as a player. He has tremendous abilities.”
Alexander has attended Grizzlies prospects camps for a number of years and has also practised with the team on several occasions.
