Keenan Johnson now has 100 North American Hockey League games under his belt. This Sunday will mark his 103rd. He hit the century mark when he laced it up for Game 2 of home opening weekend for the Ice Wolves. The 6’2” 205lb., defenseman is playing in his fourth season of the NAHL. Through his 102 games he has played thus far he has recorded four goals and seven assists. This is Keenan’s first time in a leadership role with a team as he was selected as the first ever Ice Wolves captain.
Johnson started his NAHL career with Topeka back in 2016-17. While he only played four games for them that season, he did record an assist. His very first time taking the ice at the NAHL level was against the team the Ice Wolves will see this Sunday at 3 p.m. (Lone Star). “I thought I played pretty well after being called up from Fox Motors U18”, said Johnson. The following season, the Menomonie, WI native played 46 games for Topeka recording one goal and helping on five. While it has been nearly two years since his first NAHL goal, Keenan was able to remember every detail of it stating, “my roommate passed me the puck at the point and I just sent a flutter shot bar down.” He went on to add, “I was ecstatic after it went in. It took way too long to get the first one, so I was happy to have it.” This is Johnson’s last year of eligibility in junior hockey and he is hoping to continue to play next year at the NCAA D1 level. Although for right now the captain is only focusing on helping the team record their first win.
Associate Head Coach, Keenan Kelly, spoke very highly of the 20-year-old stating, “we are really excited to have Keenan as a part of our team. He is an incredibly high-character kid which is primarily the reason we wanted to start a franchise with a guy like that wearing the “C” for us.” Kelly went on to add, “he provides an experience voice on the back end and really takes ownership of any issues in the locker room and we are really fortunate to have him with our group this year.” Johnson is currently 5th on the team in points with two. However, he is tied for the lead in goals (Wille, Khadizhalov). Not only is he the team’s first captain but he also notched the first ever goal in New Mexico Ice Wolves history, during Game 2 versus Shreveport.
The Captain will be leading the charge against the Lone Star Brahmas for their third-straight game against the only undefeated team left in the NAHL. Fans will be able to meet Keenan and the rest of the team on Sunday after the game during a skate with the players.
Puck drop is scheduled for October 13th at 3:00pm. Fans can secure their seats to the game here or catch all the action live on HockeyTV. On-Ice Game tickets are still available, and the Ice Wolves are offering $5 On-Ice tickets for fans 18 and under as part of their celebration of youth hockey. Call the Outpost Ice Arenas today to purchase On-Ice tickets!