The Saint John Sea Dogs website reported today that the forward has signed a two-year deal with St. John’s of the American Hockey League.
“I’m pretty excited, it’s what I’ve worked for,” said Kirkpatrick in a Sea Dogs release. “It’s the next step. I have a busy summer ahead of me, getting stronger and getting faster. I’m looking forward to the challenge and looking forward to making the best of this opportunity.”
The St. John’s franchise has yet to be named but it will be the affiliate of the National Hockey League’s Winnipeg Jets for this upcoming season. According to the Sea Dogs, Kirkpatrick’s deal also includes an invitation to Jets rookie camp in September.
Kirkpatrick recorded 31 goals and 51 assists in 63 regular season games in his overage season. In 12 post-season games he registered three goals and 10 assists, helping Saint John win the President’s Cup. His solid play in the Memorial Cup no doubt helped his chances of getting a pro-contract.
The North Sydney native is the Sea Dogs franchise leader in goals with 108, assists with 143, and points with 251.
Over his four-year career with the Dogs, Kirkpatrick played just about every roll. He was a goal scorer, a play maker, and a penalty killer. He was nominated for the Guy Carbonneau Trophy as the best defensive forward in the QMJHL in 2011.
Mike Thomas and Jacob DeSerres, who were both overagers with the Memorial Cup Champions last year along with Kirkpatrick, are both getting pro chances as well. Thomas signed a one-year deal with AHL’s Springfield Falcons a few weeks ago and DeSerres got an invite to Phoenix Coyotes development camp.
Photo Credit: Marc Henwood/Station Nation
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