(SMJHL double media bonus ) As we approach the SMJHL season, Heat Siecker has continued to pile on the cash and TPE in preparation for a strong showing at the draft. While Heat remains optimistic, he is also realistic. He hopes to go in the within the first 2 rounds after realizing the amount of experienced players being show cased this draft. Despite being a late draft declaration, Heat is motivated to continue a solid, productive, albeit short off season. Heat's prospect profile shows his skills, and level of determination that can often be a hard find among new players. There is a lot of work to be put into this league in order to set yourself apart from the rest and Heat intends on doing just that. Setting himself apart from the pack is difficult and shows his tenacity and willingness to put in the work. Heat understands that he may not go in the 1st round, but that's ok, he prefers to play with a chip on his shoulder and is eager to be one of the premier players of the draft and an absolute steal should he wind up being drafted in the later rounds. If there's one thing to say about Heat, is that he's excited to get out there on the ice. Without further delay, here is our pre-draft interview with highly touted draftee, Heat Siecker.

Last night, "The Athletic" did a superb interview on Heat Siecker leading up to the draft in order to build his presence and popularity among league scouts and GM's. Here's what he had to say:

The Athletic : "Heat, What has been the most challenging aspect of cracking into the SMJHL draft?"
Heat Siecker : "I would have to say the most challenging part leading up to the draft is getting familiar with the new facilities and making a name for myself. I know I just need to continue what I am doing and put in the work and sooner rather than later I will get noticed. Im talented and every team needs a top end right handed defenseman."

The Athletic : "Do you feel as though you're ready to jump into the SMJHL next season and make an impact right away?"
Heat Siecker : "Yeah, for sure. I am confident and think of myself highly as a player and as a competitor. I know I will continue to put in the work and with time, I will continue to hone my skills. I do believe that I will be ready to be an impact player by the start of the season"

The Athletic : "Aside from declaring for the draft, do you feel as though you have met your goals this season leading up to one of the biggest days of your career?"
Heat Siecker : " Absolutely. Given the short time I had to declare for the draft and prepare, I think i've come out of the gate running and ready to prove myself. My amateur hockey career so far has been phenomenal. I came away with some pretty prestigious awards in my high school career. Most points for a defenseman and  the leadership award just to name a few. I feel as though my career up to this point has surpassed expectations."

The Athletic : "How has the whole experience of declaring for the draft and getting primed to enter the SMJHL draft made you a better player?"
Heat Siecker : "Well for sure this is the best league thus far of my career and just the exposure to other top prospects and to the veteran players of the league has shown me what it really takes to succeed. This is a community driven league and there is a lot to learn from the people and players around me. Everyone has been great so far and it has really accelerated the progression of my development."

The Athletic : " One final question, Heat. There has been a lot of speculation as to where you would go in the draft and which teams will be interested in you. Where do you ultimately want to end up?
Heat Siecker : " That's a really good question and I apologize in advance for the cliche, but it really doesn't matter to me to much. Ultimately I want to go into the draft open minded and with realistic expectations. Whoever drafts me will get a hell of a player and I just want to join a team that I will be able to contribute to and bring some Cups back to the fans and my future organization."

The Athletic : "Heat, this has been a great interview. Thank you so much for your time and for the chance to get to delve into your personality and get to know you a bit better."
Heat Siecker : "Thanks so much for the opportunity, it's been a pleasure.



The Athletic: "Well, you've heard it here first. This promising prospect oozes talent and is sure to be a mainstay for which ever team decides to draft him. Scouts rave about Heat's work ethic and ability to contribute in both an offensive perspective as well as defensive. This is a confident kid who is biting at the bit to get his chance. Over the next few days, among all of the hype, we will get to see the results of a deep draft. Once this kid cracks into the league, lookout. The 6'1, 210 lb dynamic defenseman is explosive, a leader, and oozes class and talent so be sure to watch where this kid lands.

This is the Athletic, wrapping up, see you all on draft day for another draft class that is sure to leave people on the edge of their seats in excitement. We look forward to reviewing all the upcoming prospects after draft day to report on their new teams and destinations. Good luck to all future prospects and draftees.

I wonder if we'll see a Bohne and Siecker pairing someday. That could be dangerous to play against!