Coventry Blaze forward Grayson Constable has signed a one-year contract extension with the Elite League side.
The 27-year-old recorded 25 points (eight goals, 17 assists) in 60 appearances in all competitions as a rookie, helping the Blaze achieve a fifth-place finish in the regular-season standings.
“Grayson is a hard-nosed, detailed player who’s 200-foot game fits perfectly with our identity,” said Coventry head coach Kevin Moore.
“Grayson’s maturity shone through in his first year with our club and I look forward to him taking another step this season as a player and leader.
Before turning professional with the Blaze, Constable spent five seasons in the NCAA – split between the College of the Holy Cross and Long Island University – in which he made 156 appearances and posted 44 points (23 goals, 21 assists).
“I’m extremely excited to come back next season,” the Canadian said of his return to Coventry.
“This past year was such an incredible experience, and I am excited for myself and the team to take the next step in our upcoming season. I wanted to thank the fans for all the support they have shown this past season, and I hope you guys keep bringing the heat next year.”
Analysis: Coventry Blaze extend forward Grayson Constable
In his first season behind the bench, Kevin Moore revamped the Coventry Blaze and quickly won over the Skydome Arena faithful with his exciting brand of hockey.
Moore’s Blaze aren’t afraid of the forecheck, they thrive off the rush, and that all adds up to scoring in bucketloads.
With Chase Gresock, Nick Seitz, and Alessio Luciani flying high in the scoring charts, it’s easy to overlook middle-six contributions in Coventry.
But Constable’s impact on the Blaze is clear.
Grayson Constable, Coventry Blaze (Image: Scott Wiggins)
The Leathbridge-born winger is a shot-blocking specialist (32 on the season), with a decent face-off clip (18-26) for a player of his position.
Offensively, Constable was at his best in November, recording seven points (one goal, six assists) in four appearances – all wins, three of them by one-goal margins.
David Clements is the only other player (officially) on the books for the Blaze next term.
Moore’s decision to commit a roster spot to Constable this early speaks volumes about the value he added to the middle-six as a rookie.
If he makes further gains in his sophomore year, Constable’s re-signing will go down as another Moore masterstroke.
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