The SMJHL entry draft took place yesterday after a whirlwind of the day. The day started out with the Blazers playing the Vipers in the Prospect Showcase final. This was an epic 3 game series with the Blazers forging ahead with an early first game win. However, not to be outdone the Vipers came back in typically Viper fashion to tie the series 1 apiece. This set up a thrilling 3rd game between the Blazer and the Vipers, just hours before the draft. If anyone was looking to increase or decrease their draft stock, this could be their last chance. As it would happen the Blazers won the game walking away. The Vipers were hindered by taking 6 penalties. This game ended up featuring the top two picks selected at this year’s rookie SMJHL draft.

Following the showcase Corey Kennedy, was 11G-22A-32P, making him the top points getter for a Defensive player. Among these 32P he was able to collect a total of 10 points on the power play alone. Asking him what contributed to his out pouring of points on the power play he stated, “You know… I had a good team around me. My fellow Vipers all worked hard and for each other. I don’t think I was doing anything but playing my game out there.  These number and his activity talking to GMs, Media Relations, and general attitude helped propel him up draft boards as the draft drew near.

Following the showcase Kennedy was projected to go in the top 15, though most thought he would land around 10-12. Boy, though did that prediction ever get blown out of the water. Kennedy ended up vaulting through the draft boards right when the draft began and Anaheim’s need for a Defensemen was just to great as they selected him 2nd overall. Gasp and whispers were audibly heard throughout the crowd, but soon turned into cheers and elation. Kennedy’s Viper teammates razzed him the whole time. Kennedy states, “Yeah, I mean I knew I was going to go somewhere in the top 10, I felt my play and attitude deserved it, but number 2? Nah no way, not until the GM reached out moments before the draft that is. I couldn’t be happier in Anaheim though, so far they’ve been a great group of guys.”

Anaheim was a newly formed expansion franchise in the SMJHL, finishing in 8th place in their inaugural season last season. Looking to grow and improve on what could be called a somewhat successful first season this was a big draft for them, and Kennedy was a big part of it. Asking if there was added pressure after going #2OA, “Added pressure? I don’t think so, you just need to go out and do what you do. I want to prove I was worth it to my teammates and our fans, but added pressure, I don’t think so.” Nerves of steel from the young defensemen. You can bet there is a bit more pressure on him and Anaheim to succeed this year.

Going forward we asked Kennedy what kind of player he wants to become. “I want to run the game from the blueline. I want the puck on my stick with the game on the line and be able to make the right read, the right pass, allow my teammates to get to the open areas, and to win. At the end of the day this is a team game and I want US to succeed and win.” In closing now that Corey Kennedy is an Outlaw, he needs a nickname cause all great Outlaws have a nick name, his thoughts “I’ve always been fond of The Kid.” Who knows maybe that will stick?